To celebrate World Pharmacists Day, the Pharmaceutical Society of Kenya has highlighted the vital role pharmacists play in providing expert advice about medicines and supporting safe, effective and efficient healthcare for patients.
Speaking at the event in Kiambu themed “Pharmacists: Meeting Global Health Needs,” County Director of Health Dr. Hillary Kagwa underscored the vital role of effective management in securing a consistent supply of health commodities in the county’s facilities.
“We must ensure that our pharmacies maintain a supply rate of over 85 percent at all times to guarantee the ongoing availability of essential medicines. Additionally, it is crucial for our medical personnel to prescribe medications that are readily available in our stores to prevent the unethical practice of directing patients to specific private chemists and laboratories,” he said.
Governor Kimani Wamatangi, who attended the event, emphasized the importance of his administration’s commitment to improving efficiency in the healthcare sector. He also highlighted that the construction of the Ruiru Central Medical Store was now 95 percent complete.
“The facility will improve the efficiency of drug and supply deliveries throughout the county by streamlining pharmaceutical logistics.”
“In addition, to enhance the morale and efficiency of our healthcare workers, we will persist in supporting their career advancement, with over 700 promotions currently underway,” Wamatangi said.
He also noted that the introduction of the new Health Management Information System had improved accountability and efficiency across healthcare facilities, resulting in better service delivery.
Dr. Esther Kamau, the County Pharmacist and Health System Manager, described the World Pharmacists Day as an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of the profession and to express appreciation for the outstanding contributions of pharmacy teams in enhancing and safeguarding health.
“The challenges we encounter as medical experts are substantial, yet our profession motivates me daily with its dedication to and influence on patient care. Pharmacists play a crucial role in healthcare delivery, serving as custodians of medications and ensuring the safety of prescriptions. They advocate for patient education and promote shared decision-making throughout all healthcare systems,” she stated.
Dr. Kamau also emphasized the significant contributions pharmacists have made to patient care, pointing out that the future of pharmacy in Kenya was bright by highlighting the transformative changes in professional practices that are beneficial to patients across the board.
Stakeholders from partner organizations, including KMPDU and KEMSA, present at the event also emphasized the vital and evolving role of community pharmacists in supporting their patients and communities.
By Hellen Lunalo
