Importance of pharmacies

The Gamalakhe Community Health Centre (CHC) closed off Pharmacy Month with a bang last week.

Pharmacy Month is commemorated annually in September and Gamalakhe CHC observed it by engaging with patients on September 26.

Healthcare workers in the centre used the day to educate patients about the medication prescribed to them.

The health centre’s public relations officer, Lifa Radebe said pharmacies plays a vital role in the healthcare system.

Radebe said the pharmacy dispenses medication that is prescribed by the doctors and physicians, also notifies them if the patient has an adverse effect to a drug and suggests an alternative treatment.

He added that pharmacists must ensure that patients receive the correct dosage of medication and that the dosage is regulated according to the patient’s clinical response to the prescribed drug.

“While important information is already included with medicine, many patients benefit from verbal guidance like correct dosage, best ways to consume and potential side effects. A pharmacy empowers patients by helping them tackle illness and boosting their confidence. It imparts knowledge and is the first port of call in a health crisis and sometimes saves lives. It counsel patients on proper medication use. Benefits of pharmacy services such as better treatment facilities for the community and proper utilisation for the community and proper utilisation of drugs,” said Radebe,

He added that the Gamalakhe Community Health Centre is continuing with dispensing chronic medication in community structures such as halls and churches in Gamalakhe to ensure that patients do not drive to the health centre, causing unnecessary trips.

Radebe also urged the public to come forward and identify more places in Gamalakhe where chronic medication can be delivered.

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