In commemoration of the Y2024 World Pharmacists Day, General Hospital Epe joined other medical institutions worldwide to mark the day with the theme “Pharmacists: Meeting Global Health Needs”.
To commemorate the day, the Pharmacy Department of the hospital organised awareness and health talks for different groups and distributed gifts to patients as part of the celebration.
The Medical Director of GH Epe, Dr. Oluseyi Adesola, in his remarks, commended the pharmacists for their commitment to ensuring the proper handling and dispensing of medication as well as their dedication to quality service delivery. “I celebrate you today for your invaluable contributions to healthcare”, he said.
Pharmacist Olayinka Lekuti, Deputy Director of Pharmaceutical Services at GH Epe, elaborated on the critical role pharmacists play in the healthcare system.
In her words: “A Pharmacist is a healthcare professional responsible for controlling, formulating, preserving, and dispensing medications, while also providing medical advice and counselling on how to use medicines for maximum benefit and minimal side effects. Our role is crucial in preventing drug interactions and ensuring optimal patient outcomes”.
She further explained that pharmaceutical services include the provision of quality medications to ensure improved patient health. “We educate patients on the correct use of medications, such as the appropriate timing and dosage’.
“Pharmacists play an essential role in every medical institution, working collaboratively with doctors, physiotherapists, and medical laboratory scientists. We are the final point of contact for patients because, after the doctor’s diagnosis, the prescribed medications are dispensed by the pharmacist”, she stated.
Pharmacist Lekuti also advised patients to avoid self-medication, warning that it can be hazardous to their health. “Overdosing or underdosing can lead to serious health complications”, she cautioned.
