It is without a doubt that no matter how informed you are about your medication and why you need it, it is always important to have a pharmacist’s opinion on how to take it. These are trained and well-educated practitioners whose main aim is to lead you into a healthier and safe recovery journey.
The Cleveland Clinic states that a pharmacist is a crucial healthcare provider who provides prescriptions and collaborates with doctors and other providers to ensure correct medication dosages.
The Austell Pharmaceuticals publication believes that pharmacists are not just packers of prescribed medications; they are trusted medical advisors, ensuring patients take the right medication for their problems. It is stated that they are the last line of defence against potential medication errors, providing patients with vital information about their medications. The mentioned source further claims that pharmacists also partner in patient care, offering personalised consultations and empowering patients to make informed decisions.
“Pharmacists are instrumental in promoting public health at both individual and community levels. During health crises, such as the recent Covid-19 pandemic, pharmacists were at the forefront, disseminating accurate information, and dispelling myths to the public.”
The above-mentioned clinic further describes the different types of pharmacists available, which include community, clinical, consultant, pharmaceutical industry, and nuclear pharmacists.
A community pharmacist according to Cleveland, works in retail stores, providing medication and answering prescription questions, they also provide flu vaccines. Clinical pharmacists are said to work in hospitals, clinics, or other healthcare settings, focusing on direct patient care and medication recommendations.
As for consultant pharmacists, the above clinic states that they advise healthcare companies and insurance providers on medication use and improve pharmacy services.
“A pharmaceutical industry pharmacist works in the pharma industry. They work in the areas of sales, marketing, or research and development. Pharmaceutical industry pharmacists design and conduct clinical drug trials. They help develop new drugs. They may also help to create safety guidelines and ensure quality control for new medications.”
Nuclear pharmacists prepare and distribute radiopharmaceuticals for nuclear medicine tests and procedures, undergoing extensive training in radiation safety and handling radioactive materials, concluded the Cleveland Clinic.
Now, in celebration of World Pharmacists Day today, it would be an ideal thing to make a positive impact on your pharmacy team. The Digital Pharmacist publication suggests that you take the time to personally thank your staff and co-workers for their hard work or schedule a special event for patients, such as a free blood pressure screening day, to build personal relationships and show your care.
It is also advised that you decorate your pharmacy space to boost morale and celebrate the week. “This is a great time to lend a hand to a local pharmacy program. Whether it’s by being a guest speaker, allowing students to shadow you, or proofreading CVs – there are numerous ways you can impact the future of the profession.”
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