TO MARK Universal Health Coverage Day on 12 Dec, the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) has released a new publication, Knowledge and skills reference guide for pharmacists supporting self-care.
The guide is designed to be a comprehensive resource for pharmacists, providing them with the knowledge and skills needed to support self-care effectively, and has been adapted specifically for pharmacy practice from World Health Organization (WHO) documentation for healthcare professionals supporting self-care.
It covers five key domains: people-centredness; decision-making; collaboration; personal conduct; evidence-based practice; and communication.
It also highlights the role of pharmacists in supporting people to access safe and effective over-the-counter treatments, recognise symptoms that require medical attention, and make informed lifestyle choices that promote health and prevent disease.
"The healthcare landscape is evolving, with a growing emphasis on proactive, people-centred approaches that empower individuals to take greater control of their health," said Dr Manjulaa Narasimhan, WHO self-care lead.
"Pharmacists have a unique and pivotal role in this transformation."
With people facing barriers to accessing healthcare services, whether due to geographical isolation, economic constraints or workforce shortages, self-care can bridge these gaps, Narasimhan said.
"Effective self-care needs to be provided in the context of safe, enabling environments so as not to add further burden on people.
"As highly trusted healthcare professionals positioned in the heart of communities, pharmacists are often the most accessible healthcare providers for people in need of advice, guidance and support," Narasimhan said. KB
You can access the guide HERE.
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