Pharmacy U news

Taking the time to reflect and being open to learning business strategies will not only contribute to our overall success but also provides a greater appreciation for the intricacies of pharmacy.

In writing about the anecdotes and lessons offered by managing people, the business and the profession, I found seven recurrent themes, which I called the seven dimensions of the ideal pharmacy leader.

Over the years, I have had the privilege of addressing thousands of pharmacists and pharmacy students. While I have not shared this story for quite a while, I believe it is fitting for our consideration of courage.

Pharmacists have emerged as the predominant providers of influenza vaccinations in Canada and provide care for older adult patients taking chronic medications. Therefore, they are critical in identifying, educating, and protecting high-risk patients with immunization and other clinical services.

Just over a year ago I interviewed Carolyn Thomas, a heart attack survivor who now advocates for women’s heart health, after initially being wrongly diagnosed and dismissed by her local hospital.

Last week, on August 31st, we celebrated the third annual Independent Pharmacy Day. The day was a great success as we saw an overwhelming support from industry stakeholders and government officials, with many Ontario MPPs and Ministers (including the Minister of Health) visiting their local independent pharmacy and posting a photo on their social media channels on the day.

Pharmacists face the call for courage in the presence of a single person all the time. Much of the time, the stakes can be quite low. But there are also times when the stakes can be very high.

Pharmacists are ideally positioned to not only support patients on their current weight loss journey but take a more proactive role. Pharmacists have long been considered the medication experts but increasingly they are being recognized for their commitment to chronic disease management.