World Pharmacists Day is observed on September 25 every year to acknowledge the role of pharmacists for the role they play in improving the health system. The purpose of the annual Pharmacists Day is to encourage activities that promote and advocate for the role of the pharmacist in improving health in every corner of the world. 

History

World Pharmacists Day was introduced in 2009 by the International Pharmaceutical Federation council in Istanbul. This is the 11th year of observing the annual Pharmacists Day across the world. September 25 was chosen as the date for World Pharmacists Day because it was on this very day in 1912 that the International Pharmaceutical Federation was originally established; thus, it was only natural that the Turkish members of the council suggested in 2009 that September 25 be observed as World Pharmacists Day.

Theme

World Pharmacists Day this year is being celebrated with the theme – “Pharmacy: Always trusted for your health”. According to the International Pharmaceutical Federation, the reason behind this theme is that “Trust is a central part of all human relationships and a fundamental element of social capital. Trust is also essential to health care: there is a significant association between trust in healthcare professionals and health outcomes for patients.”

When patients have higher faith in healthcare practitioners, they respond better to the treatment with positive health behaviors and fewer symptoms, leading to an overall better quality of life.

Importance of pharmacist

Pharmacy is the practice that links medicinal science with chemistry and as such plays a hugely important role in modern healthcare. Pharmacists are responsible for the production, disposal, safe and effective use, and control of medications and drugs. Pharmacists are responsible for ensuring that people get the most out of their medications. Pharmacists have the efficient knowledge of drugs, their side effects, mobility, and toxicity of medicines and drugs. They give access to medications, instructs and counsel the patient on how to use them appropriately. They use their experience, knowledge, and skill to make the (medical) world a better place for everyone.