National Pharmacist Month, observed every October, serves as a wonderful occasion to honor and acknowledge the indispensable contributions made by pharmacists, technicians, and pharmacy teams to patient care. It provides ample opportunities to highlight the essential role they fulfill in promoting health and well-being within our communities, hospitals, and beyond.
What is National Pharmacist Month?
Established in 2004, National Pharmacist Month, also known as American Pharmacist Month, was created to honor the dedication and hard work of pharmacists across the United States. However, the origins of this celebration trace back to October 1925 with National Pharmacy Week. During this week, nationwide messages were disseminated to raise awareness about the vital role of pharmacists in healthcare systems.
Nearly 80 years later, the American Pharmacists Association (APhA) extended the duration of celebration from one week to an entire month. This expansion was aimed at recognizing the significant impacts made by pharmacists and their teams.
The American Pharmacists Association
Founded in 1852, the American Pharmacists Association (APhA) stands as one of the nation’s oldest and most esteemed organizations representing pharmacists and pharmacy technicians. Throughout its history, APhA has been a staunch advocate for pharmacists, highlighting their pivotal role in patient care. With a membership exceeding 60,000 individuals, APhA empowers pharmacy teams to provide optimal healthcare services, ensuring they remain at the forefront of emerging trends and advancements in both the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries.
In the realm of hospital settings, the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) serves as the standard-bearer for the highest level of practice. ASHP sets the benchmark that propels the pharmacy profession forward, offering a vision for its future trajectory.
How Pharmacists, Pharmacy Techs, & the Entire Pharmacy Team Help Us
Accessibility:
Pharmacy teams are vital components of the healthcare system, readily available to patients and healthcare professionals alike. With over 90% of Americans residing within five miles of a community pharmacy, pharmacists serve as accessible resources for millions of individuals.
Prescriptions and Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications:
In 2021, pharmacists dispensed a staggering 8.7 billion prescriptions, including 3.65 billion non-retail prescriptions and over 5 billion retail prescriptions. Beyond simply dispensing medication, pharmacists possess extensive knowledge of both prescription and OTC medications, assisting patients in selecting suitable products while considering potential interactions with other medications.
Medication Reconciliation:
Pharmacists play a crucial role in medication reconciliation, particularly in hospital settings. They meticulously review a patient’s entire medication regimen, evaluating for drug interactions, proper dosage, and suitability, ensuring patient safety and well-being.
Disease Management:
Pharmacy teams provide valuable support in managing chronic illnesses such as diabetes, high blood pressure, asthma, COPD, and pain management. They offer expertise in medication usage, conduct necessary tests, and assist patients in achieving better health outcomes.
Education for Patients & Healthcare Providers:
Pharmacists engage in comprehensive patient education, guiding individuals through their medication regimens and addressing any concerns. In hospitals, they initiate medication discussions upon admission, ensuring patients understand their medications and post-discharge instructions. Additionally, pharmacists contribute to healthcare provider education, including pharmacoeconomic to optimize cost-effective therapies.
COVID-19, Flu, and Other Vaccinations:
Pharmacy teams have been instrumental in COVID-19 vaccination efforts, administering over 50% of vaccinations in the US according to the Journal of the American Pharmacists Association. Their interventions have helped prevent millions of deaths, hospitalizations, and significant healthcare costs. Moreover, pharmacists offer guidance on various immunizations, safeguarding patient health against diseases like pneumonia, shingles, and HPV.
Ways to Show Your Appreciation During National Pharmacist Month
American Pharmacist Month presents a valuable opportunity for pharmacy departments to recognize and celebrate their contributions to promoting safe and effective medication use. Here are several ways to honor the profession of pharmacy this October:
Express Gratitude:
Take a moment to express appreciation to the pharmacy team through a simple “thank you” message or a heartfelt note. Whether it’s a local pharmacy or a healthcare facility, acknowledging exceptional care can make a meaningful impact. Hospitals can show their gratitude by offering complimentary lunches or gift cards to pharmacy staff.
Raise Awareness on Social Media:
Utilize social media platforms to raise awareness about the vital role pharmacists, pharmacy techs, and their teams play in healthcare. Share stories highlighting their dedication and impact. Stay updated on relevant hashtags from organizations like ASHP and APhA to amplify the message effectively.
Organize Local Events:
Host events within the community to engage with patients and raise awareness about pharmacy services. Consider organizing Meet and Greets where patients can interact with local pharmacists or Lunch and Learn sessions covering topics such as flu vaccinations, cholesterol screenings, blood pressure tests, or Medicare. These events foster community engagement and education on important healthcare matters.
Other Noteworthy Pharmacy Celebrations
Throughout the year, there are various pharmacy-related celebrations that offer opportunities to honor and appreciate pharmacy teams for their invaluable contributions to healthcare:
– National Pharmacist Day (January 12)
– World Pharmacist Day (September 25)
– Women Pharmacist Day (October 12, 2023)
– National Pharmacy Week (October 15-21, 2023)
– National Pharmacy Technician Day (Third Tuesday in October)
These occasions serve as reminders to recognize the dedication and hard work of pharmacy professionals, who tirelessly strive to ensure our well-being. At Attcam consulting, we extend our heartfelt appreciation to pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, and all pharmacy staff for their unwavering commitment and passion, which positively impacts lives every day.
This October, we encourage you to celebrate your hospital pharmacy team. Consider gestures such as distributing gift certificates, organizing special lunches, or designing team t-shirts as tokens of appreciation. Take a moment to express gratitude and acknowledge the collective efforts of your pharmacy team throughout the year.