Overcoming Stigma in Pain Management and Pharmacy Practice
Pain is a universal human experience and one of the most common reasons patients seek healthcare. However, providing effective pain care can be challenging due to various barriers that impact the delivery and quality of treatment, including stigma attached to the use of medications to manage chronic pain. In observance of Pain Awareness Month, we take a look at barriers to effective pain management with a focus on stigma. By understanding the factors that contribute to stigma and developing strategies to
Pharmacists’ Integral Role in Comprehensive Pain Management
Chronic pain affects millions of people worldwide, significantly impacting their quality of life and overall well-being. As many individuals with chronic pain primarily rely on medications for relief, pharmacists play a crucial role in their care. In observance of Pain Awareness Month, we highlight the integral role that pharmacists play in effective pain management. Various aspects of the pharmacist's role include medication management, pain education, self-management, interprofessional collaboration, and addressing stigma. Understanding Chronic Pain Chronic pain is a complex condition that involves physical,
AI in Pharmacy: “Appropriate” Use (Part 2 of 2)
This is part 2 of 2 Part I of this conversation gave an overview of AI’s benefits and risks in pharmacy, including the recent warnings and reports issued by the World Health Organization (WHO). This part continues the conversation by exploring how AI is currently being used, and where the future of AI in pharmacy might lead. Current Applications of AI in Pharmacy AI is already being used in various areas of pharmacy, showcasing its potential to transform healthcare practices. Medication management and
Artificial Intelligence in Pharmacy: “Appropriate” Use of AI (Part 1 of 2)
Artificial intelligence (AI) has made its way into almost every industry, including healthcare. One area where AI holds immense potential is pharmacy. With its ability to analyze vast amounts of data and make accurate predictions (when based on accurate input), AI can revolutionize the way medications are prescribed, dispensed, and monitored. The key question that arises is, what is the "appropriate" use of AI in pharmacy? While the benefits are wide-ranging and inspire hope, it is important to strike a balance between
The Evolving Role of Pharmacy Education in Public Health: Empowering Pharmacists for a Healthier Future
In today's rapidly changing healthcare landscape, the role of pharmacists has become increasingly vital in strengthening public health. As the healthcare industry faces numerous challenges, pharmacy education plays a crucial role in preparing future pharmacists to effectively address these issues. By equipping students with a comprehensive understanding of medications, patient care, and public health practices, pharmacy education programs are empowering pharmacists to become key players in improving public health outcomes. Florida Pharmacy Foundation hopes to highlight the importance of strengthening public
How Pharmacists Were Utilized During the Pandemic to Optimize Patient Care
The International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) issued a guideline on March 19, 2020, outlining the necessary information for pharmacists and the pharmacy workforce regarding the coronavirus. The guideline emphasized the role and responsibility of both community and hospital pharmacists in managing the outbreak. During pandemics, pharmacists play a crucial role in coordinated efforts. They need to be flexible and adaptable in adapting to changes in pharmacy practice. As highlighted by FIP, community pharmacies (in both affected and unaffected areas) often serve as the initial point of
Student Pharmacist Contributions to Immunization Campaigns
Student pharmacists can help prevent vaccine-preventable diseases through their involvement in student-led immunization initiatives. Research consistently demonstrates that these educational interventions enhance patient understanding of vaccines. Additionally, patient satisfaction with the immunization services provided by students consistently ranks very high. Recognizing the critical role pharmacists play in vaccination efforts, student-led immunization campaigns are emerging as powerful initiatives that empower future pharmacists to make a tangible impact on public health. These campaigns not only enhance immunization rates but also provide valuable experiential
The Fitzpatrick Scale: Assessing Pharmacy Clients’ UV Sensitivity
Pharmacists’ role in UV safety for various publics Pharmacists are often the first point of contact for people seeking advice on UV safety and skin care. Crucially, pharmacists are typically available for more frequent contact with patients. This positions those in this profession to be an invaluable resource to patients, especially those who are in sun-vulnerable populations, including those with UV-vulnerable Fitzpatrick skin types, or those on medications that increase their UV sensitivity. There is a role for pharmacists to play in skin
UV Safety and Other Public Health Issues: The Pharmacist’s Role
As we head into high summer, the bright sun signals both fun and foe – an enemy against exposed skin and eyes. July is also UV (ultraviolet) Safety Month. It’s our annual reminder to take UV safety seriously, during this month when we’re exposed to the strongest direct sunlight. (The rest of the year is just as important!) Skin Cancer: A Public Health Issue UV radiation is a major risk factor for skin cancer. UV rays can also cause premature aging and
Cybersecurity for Pharmacists
Pharmacists are entrusted with sensitive patient data on a daily basis. With the rise of telemedicine and online prescription services, pharmacists are now more vulnerable than ever to cyber threats – and threat actors have more incentive than ever to level these attacks. In our digital world, the importance of cybersecurity cannot be overstated. In this article, we explore the key cybersecurity challenges faced by pharmacists and discuss effective strategies to mitigate these risks. Training self and staff in cybersecurity best