Pharmacists in Nigeria have expressed Alarm over what they perceive as a lack of Medical Security in the Country.
They are calling on the Federal Government to prioritize Medical Security, as it directly impacts the well-being and safety of Citizens.
Adewale Oladigbolu, the National President of the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN), made this plea during a Press briefing in Lagos ahead of the ACPN 42nd Annual Scientific Conference.
The Conference, with the theme “Building Effective Community Pharmacy Services for Universal Health Coverage,” is scheduled to take place from July 31 to August 5 in Asaba, Delta State.
Oladigbolu defined Medicine Insecurity as the Insufficient availability, accessibility, and affordability of essential Medications to the Population.
He attributed this problem to various factors, including limited Production, Inefficient Distribution Networks, regulatory Issues, and Financial Constraints.
He highlighted the adverse consequences of Medicine Insecurity on Nigerian society, particularly for Individuals with chronic illnesses and vulnerable Populations.
The unavailability of essential Medications can worsen Health Conditions, prolong suffering, and, in severe cases, result in Irreversible damage or loss of life.
Furthermore, it hampers Disease prevention efforts, contributes to the spread of Communicable Diseases, and exacerbates Public Health crises.
Oladigbolu also emphasized the Importance of Digital Health in the practice of Community Pharmacists and how it can Revolutionize Healthcare Services in the Community.
With the Rapid advancement of Technology, Integrating Digital Health solutions into daily Operations has become increasingly crucial.
By adopting Digital Health tools and platforms, Community Pharmacists can enhance Patient Engagement and Empowerment.
Through telehealth Consultations, Mobile Applications, and Online portals, Patients can easily access Health Information, Medication reminders, and personalized Care plans.
This accessibility Fosters Patient Involvement in Health Management and Improves adherence to Prescribed Treatments, Ultimately leading to better health outcomes.
Additionally, Oladigbolu addressed the Challenges faced by Community Pharmacists in providing high-quality patient care, particularly in Medication labeling.
To address this concern, he highlighted the Importance of utilizing Drug labeling Machines, sophisticated tools that automate the process of printing and affixing labels to Medication containers.
These machines, equipped with advanced Technology and Software, can Generate clear and standardized labels containing vital Information such as the Patient’s name, Medication details, Dosage Instructions, Expiration date, and Necessary warnings or Precautions.
Regarding the upcoming Conference, Oladigbolu stated that it aims to highlight the crucial role of Community Pharmacists in providing accessible and quality Healthcare Services to all.
Beyond dispensing Medications, Community Pharmacists serve as trusted Healthcare Providers within Communities, offering Valuable advice, counseling, and Preventive care.
