National Pharmacist Day is observed this year on January 12. Pharmacists in the United States and around the world have a long history of invaluable contributions.
In the past, pharmacists have provided drugs to doctors for medication for their patients. Now, however, pharmacists are viewed as one of the most trustworthy professionals in America, and an integral part of a person’s healthcare team. They have many important roles.
- They advise providers on the selection, dosages, interactions and side effects of prescriptions.
- They answer patients’ questions about the drugs prescribed to them.
- They administer a variety of immunizations to the public.
- They monitor a patient’s health and healing progress.
Want some interesting facts about pharmacists? These are just a few interesting historical tidbits about pharmacists and the pharmaceutical profession.
- Ever wonder why British mystery writer Agatha Christie knew so much about poisons for her murder mysteries? She was a pharmacy dispenser in World War I.
- Do you love Coca-Cola, Pepsi, Dr Pepper, or Ginger Ale? Then thank a pharmacist — a pharmacist was the inventor of each.
- Before he got into national politics, Vice President Hubert Humphrey (1911-1978) earned his pharmacy license and worked in his father’s drugstore in Minnesota.
- William Proctor (1817-1874) is considered the Father of Pharmacy. He dedicated his professional career to the science of pharmacology and wrote the first textbook on the science of pharmacy.
- National Pharmacist’s Day was first celebrated in 2005 to show appreciation to pharmacists despite being around for centuries.
Pharmacists play a key role in the American healthcare system and are among the most trusted of healthcare professions. That trust has been earned over more than two centuries.
When you next go to your corner pharmacy for a prescription refill, a flu shot or to find something to relieve the pain of that wasp sting, remember to thank your local pharmacist for the role they play in your everyday healthcare.