Thank you Pharmacists!
Pharmacists play an important role in keeping Americans healthy. Pharmacists work in drug stores, hospitals, offices, and clinics, primarily dealing with medication prescription and delivery. Once a medication has been prescribed for a patient, they may verify prescriptions and drug amounts, instruct patients on how to take medications, and inform them of any side effects. Thus, they help to manage and dispense medications for millions of Americans, and are an important resource for health information.
As we approach National Pharmacist Day on January 12, we celebrate the role of pharmacists in helping vaccinate adolescents and young adults. Pharmacists are increasingly playing a role as advocates and immunizers. As advocates, they can educate individuals who may be hesitant or unsure about receiving vaccinations. This is an especially valuable role in rural areas, where pharmacists are often the most accessible health professional.
The first national training programs for pharmacists as immunizers began in the 1990s, and pharmacists have slowly become more involved in the national vaccine delivery effort since then. As immunizers, pharmacists have helped lower health care costs, improve health outcomes, and increase vaccination rates.
The option to get vaccinated at a pharmacy has greatly expanded access to vaccines for all Americans. 93% of Americans live within 5 miles of a community pharmacy, which may offer greater convenience than primary health care offices or hospitals due to their shorter wait times, ease of access, and longer hours.
Pharmacists can be great resources for teens to speak with, particularly if they are unsure about getting vaccinated. And, pharmacists are easily accessible to all—just stop by your local pharmacy! As we celebrate National Pharmacist Day, we recognize and thank all the pharmacists who have played and continue to play an important role in keeping Americans safe, healthy, informed, and vaccinated.
