The National Chairman of the Association of Hospital and Administrative Pharmacists of Nigeria, Dr Kingsley Amibor, has said, pharmacists in Nigeria are positioned to advise and counsel people on the rational use of medicines.

 

Amibor, in a statement released to mark the 2019 World Pharmacists Day, said the AHAPN had lined up activities aimed at drawing the attention of Nigerians to the appropriate and rational use of medicines which would ensure patient’s safety in the long run.

 

He said, “Pharmacists world over possess broad knowledge and unique expertise which they use to ensure that people get the maximum benefits from their medicines. Pharmacists ensure access to medicines and their appropriate use to improve adherence, coordinate transitions of care and generally ensure rational use of medicines and much more. Pharmacists have a great responsibility in ensuring that when patients use medicines, they will not cause harm in such people.

“Studies have shown that a significant number of patients are harmed in the course of accessing health care, resulting in permanent injury, increased length of stay in hospitals and health care facilities and death in some cases. Medication errors also contribute to this. Pharmacists play a vital role in curbing this global health challenge.”

 

He added that the association had lined up several activities to celebrate the 2019 World Pharmacists Day. The theme of the 2019 celebration is, ‘Safe and Effective Medicines for all.’