THE International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) has joined with other health bodies in an open letter calling on countries across the globe "to recognise and utilise self-care as an approach to strengthen health systems".
The letter to the United Nations notes that self-care supports the achievement of all eight key recommendations identified in the UN's Universal Health Care (UHC) 2030 Action Agenda "and should be mainstreamed within UHC frameworks and activities at global and national levels".
UN member states are being urged to acknowledge the value of self-care in the political declaration which will follow an upcoming high-level meeting on UHC in Sep.
FIP has launched a dedicated new online microsite with a range of resources to help boost the profile of self-care, noting that health literacy is a "foundational pre-requisite to responsible self-care".
Pharmacists can play an important role in facilitating effective self-care, FIP said, with the accessibility and trust placed in the profession enabling them to "translate quality, evidence-based information into sound, unbiased advice on self-care products and strategies".
"In addition, pharmacists provide patients with comprehensive advice, which may include, but is not limited to, diet, exercise and other lifestyle changes."
FIP added that pharmacists also support the rational selection, administration and responsible use of self-care products, alongside individual counselling, support and follow-up for safety and efficacy.
The letter to the UN highlights a range of self-care benefits including its particular importance for vulnerable populations.
"Effective practice of self-care creates a stronger and more efficient health system, making good use of limited resources and alleviating pressure on healthcare workers by freeing them up for the most critical tasks," the letter noted.
"Yet, self-care is an under-recognised and underutilised approach to health system strengthening," it added.
Almost 90 organisations from across the globe have joined the push by adding their names as signatories to the letter, with more details online HERE.
The above article was sent to subscribers in Pharmacy Daily's issue from 26 Jul 23
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