By MWINGI TIMES CORRESPONDENT
The Lower Eastern Pharmaceutical Society of Kenya branch secretary, Dr. Patrick Muthini,has called for the recognition of professionals in the field as key players in the success of the health system.
"This a compelling reminder that pharmacists are not only custodians of medicines but also central architects of stronger health systems and better health outcomes," said Dr. Muthini.
In a statement he issued on Thursday during the celebration of the World Pharmacist Day, he said the day's mantra; Think Health, Think Pharmacists, goes beyond just a mere slogan.
"The role of pharmacists has evolved far beyond the traditional image of just dispensing medicines. Today, pharmacists are at the frontline in healthcare delivery," he said.
He noted that despite a myriad of hiccups facing the health system, pharmacists remain a largely untapped health care workforce.
He added that the workforce had the potential to address some of the most pressing health care challenges.
"This entails ensuring equitable access to quality medicines and supplies, promoting safe and rational drug use, geared towards fight against antimicrobial resistance," he pointed.
Dr. Muthini lamented that despite the huge potential, financial constraints have forced the government to deploy non-professionals to perform the roles and responsibilities that require the expertise of trained pharmacists.
"While such measures may save costs in the short term, this exposes patients to avoidable risks, compromise medicine optimization, and erode public trust in healthcare systems," he observed.
The pharmacist at the Kitui County Referral Hospital Cancer Centre further rued that the long-term social and economic costs of such shortcuts far outweighed any perceived savings.
He said pharmacists ensure functionality of supply chain and use of medicines and health technologies, administer vaccinations and offer preventive and promotive health services.
Further, he added, they play a pivotal role in combating antimicrobial resistance through stewardship programs and rational antibiotic use.
They are also instrumental in raising health literacy across communities, leading public health campaigns, and being key players in patient care.
The areas, he added , include hospital wards to the specialized clinics in oncology, HIV, tuberculosis, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and other non-communicable conditions.
"Through these wide range of contributions in the health care system, pharmacists provide safe, effective, and cost-efficient care that not only improves individual patient outcomes but also strengthens the entire health systems," he said.
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