Pharmacists told to remain alert, disseminate awareness

Our Correspondent
Kohima, Sep. 25 (EMN): The deputy drug controller, Directorate of Health and Family Welfare, Lithungo, on Sunday called upon pharmacists in the state to remain alert, report poor quality drugs as well as disseminate healthcare knowledge and awareness on food habits to avoid sickness.

He said this while addressing a state-level programme on the occasion of World Pharmacist Day on the theme “Pharmacy united in action for a healthier world” in Kohima.

He opined that there is a need to upgrade the profession in Nagaland, and told pharmacists to learn to equip themselves, stating that acquiring mere degree is not enough.

Meanwhile, District Pharmacy Officer, Kohima, Khizoto, suggested that the government must shift the mindset to have a more balanced curriculum that fosters the competency of the profession in order to empower pharmacists to further define roles in the healthcare system in the state.

He also laid emphasis on the importance of the field, adding that the pharmacist’s responsibility is more than just a job.

‘It is a way of life and the patient’s healthcare is crucial. The profession has changed over the years. It covers the preparation, production, analysis, and storage of pharmaceuticals and other medical supplies.

‘Pharmacists perform multiple vital tasks including finding proper medication for patients, administering replenishment and refilling of medications, and monitoring pharmaceutical expiration dates’, he added.

The technological advancements, sociopolitical changes, information, and a shift to multi-disciplinary working means that the way pharmacists work needs to be changed, he said.

Drug Inspector Kohima, Ethungbemo Ezung and Deputy Director Pharmacy Khele Thorie also addressed the gathering.

The programme was organised by Nagaland Pharmacist Association (NPA) in collaboration with Kohima District Pharmacist Union (KDPU) at CMO Kohima Conference Hall. The day is celebrated to commemorate the establishment of the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) on September 25, 1912.