Respiratory physician Lutz Beckert considers chronic obstructive pulmonary disease management, including the prevention of COPD, the importance of smoking cessation and pulmonary rehabilitation, and the lifesaving potential of addressing treatable traits. He also discusses the logic of inhaler therapy, moving from single therapy to dual and triple therapy when indicated, as well as other aspects of management
BD Rowa - Stellar supporter of product or service of the future
BD Rowa - Stellar supporter of product or service of the future

BD RowaTM pharmacy automation is sponsoring the Product or Service of the Future – Prevention and/or Detection of Health Risk Award in the 2025 New Zealand Primary Healthcare Awards | He Tohu Mauri Ora. John Barrett, business unit director of BD RowaTM, tells us what it means to be a Stellar Supporter.
Why is BD RowaTM pharmacy automation sponsoring the primary healthcare awards?
Our main area of involvement is within pharmacies, which ensures seamless medication management and access for all. By sponsoring these awards, BD RowaTM pharmacy automation recognises pharmacy professionals’ innovation, dedication and impact.
What is the key area of involvement of BD RowaTM pharmacy automation in primary care?
BD RowaTM robots have been at the forefront of pharmacy automation for over two decades, providing cutting-edge solutions that streamline medication dispensing, improve inventory management and reduce medication errors. Our automated storage and retrieval systems optimise workflow in community pharmacies, hospitals and aged-care facilities – allowing healthcare providers to focus on what matters most: patient care. BD RowaTM solutions ensure medication management efficiency, accuracy and precision through seamless integration with healthcare IT systems.
What interests you personally about the category BD RowaTM pharmacy automation is sponsoring?
Pharmacy automation is more than just technology – it’s about empowering pharmacists and healthcare teams to work smarter, not harder. I am passionate about supporting innovations that improve efficiency, reduce burnout and enhance patient safety. Recognising excellence is essential, as it celebrates achievements and drives future advancements in medication management and healthcare technology.
What do you hope this sponsorship will achieve for the entrants in this category?
BD RowaTM pharmacy automation aims to elevate awareness of automation’s role in primary healthcare and encourage further innovation. We hope this recognition will inspire entrants to continue pushing boundaries, fostering collaboration, innovation and excellence in pharmacy services.
What is a great experience you have had in primary care that you can share with us?
Some decades ago, I worked in critical care nursing across Australia and the UK. This experience at the coalface shaped my commitment to ensuring those responsible for delivering care at all levels should have access to the best available tools and resources. Enabling our amazing primary caregivers with these tools will significantly improve patient outcomes.
How would you describe the sector in three words?
Innovative, essential, transformative.
If you were asked to name a popular song as the anthem for primary care, what would you choose?
Work Smarter, Not Harder (Sean Conn).

The New Zealand Primary Healthcare Awards | He Tohu Mauri Ora is Aotearoa's premiere celebration of excellence in the field of primary healthcare. The awards honour the incredible contributions of our healthcare professionals in a wide range of categories. Category list available on www.nzphawards.co.nz/categories.
If you are still thinking about entering but thought you had left it too late - we have great news. Entry deadline has been extended to 30 April 2025.
Primary care in Aotearoa is achieving amazing outcomes in tough times. We would love to hear about the positive impact that you and your team are making for your community.