Recognizing and engaging pharmacists in global public health in limited resource settings

Pharmacists throughout the world are one of the most accessible health care providers and are often the first health professional individuals seek for care.With many pharmacies open 24 hours a day with no appointment necessary, pharmacists are uniquely positioned across communities to provide care and advice, especially for vulnerable populations in limited resource settings.As the pharmacy profession continues to shift from product-centered to patient-centered services such as preventive screenings, immunizations, and disease state management, more attention has been given to the impact pharmacists can have in public health.In developed countries, pharmacists are increasingly recognized and engaged in public health activities such as disease prevention and control programs, policy development, and emergency preparedness among others.Organizations such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Public Health England, and the World Health Organization (WHO) are encouraging community organizations and other health care professionals to partner with pharmacists for the effective planning of public health services.In developing countries though, there has not been a comparable endorsement or utilization of pharmacists in public health efforts.With the growing acknowledgement that global health is inclusive of local public health, pharmacists have the opportunity to move the profession forward globally by establishing themselves as health care providers who also serve as global health practitioners.In limited resource communities throughout the world, there is a particular need and opportunity for pharmacists to be utilized to increase access to safe, quality medications that can save lives.From medication safety and the responsible use of medication to supply chain management and immunizations, pharmacists can utilize their medication expertise not only for addressing local gaps in care, but also for Recognizing and engaging pharmacists in global public health in limited resource settings