World Pharmacist Day observed in Tuensang, Peren, and Mon to highlight pharmacists' healthcare roles.
DIMAPUR — Tuensang, Peren, and Mon districts observed World Pharmacist Day on September 25 on the theme “Empowering pharmacists for a healthier future”, highlighting the contributions of pharmacists towards healthcare delivery and medication safety.
Tuensang: The Tuensang District Pharmacist Union celebrated the day at the conference hall of District Hospital Tuensang.
Senior Medical Officer at District Hospital Tuensang Dr. Tochi Chang underlined the role of pharmacists in healthcare sectors and their contribution towards the safe usage of medications, according to an update.
He stated that unsafe medication and substandard drugs undermine treatment outcomes across the healthcare system.
President of the Tuensang District Pharmacist Union T Hosea Meya highlighted the indispensable role of pharmacists in the current healthcare scenario.
He also spoke on the ancient Indian healthcare system and the significance of the Pharmacy Act, 1948.
Peren: In Peren, the Peren District Pharmacist Association In-service celebrated the day at The Hive, Jalukie town, with an event attended by medical officers, administrative staff, nurses, and pharmacists.
Chief Medical Officer of Peren Dr. K Limatula Ao delivered the keynote address, focusing on the contributions of pharmacists to public healthcare, patient safety, and counselling services. She encouraged pharmacists to work with sincerity and dedication.
Dr. Ao stated that the need of the hour is empowering pharmacists with skills, knowledge, recognition, digital healthcare tools, and the responsible use of medicine, while urging them to face emerging professional challenges.
District Programme Officer Sentila Longchar delivered an exhortation, commending the pharmacists for their dedication and outlining their responsibilities as healthcare providers.
Mon: The Mon District Pharmacists’ Union observed the day at the Chief Medical Office in Mon, bringing together healthcare professionals from across the district.
Chief Medical Officer of Mon Dr. Supongmenla Walling described pharmacists as the first-line educators on medicines, highlighting their expertise in drug interactions, effects, side effects, and safe medicine usage. She noted that pharmacists play a critical role during routine healthcare and public health emergencies.
Dr. Walling pointed out the need for supportive policies, professional development, research, and digital tools, urging pharmacists to collaborate closely with doctors, nurses, and policymakers while maintaining ethical standards.
District Programme Manager Moie Bonnie Konyak stated that the role of pharmacists extends beyond dispensing medicines to educating the public, promoting rational drug use, and addressing internet-driven misconceptions and self-medication.
She acknowledged the challenges faced by pharmacists posted in remote health facilities and urged them to maintain proper medicine storage, stock management, indents, and safe disposal protocols.
District Programme Officer Limayanger Ao informed that pharmacists in the district have been participating in regular Continuing Pharmaceutical Education programmes since 2021 under the Continuing Medical Education and Training initiative to keep abreast of pharmaceutical developments.