You’re a busy pharmacist who values your patients. You spend many hours each day keeping them healthy and on track with medications. But don’t let your involvement stop there. Have you ever thought about engaging your pharmacy in the community?
You can play an important role in participating in community engagement projects. You’re already trusted to educate others on important health issues, so you’re in an ideal position to bring that education to the community. Listed below are five great ways you can make a difference in your community.
Participate in a drug disposal program
The first thing you’ll want to do is find out when your city’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day will be held (you can find it easily on the internet). If your pharmacy doesn’t have a continuous collection program, try partnering with law enforcement. This can be a great activity for community engagement. As a pharmacist, you can play a key role in education and prevention of prescription drug abuse and diversion.
Hold a general health event
Stay involved in your community by holding a regular health event and screenings. Put up a sign in your pharmacy, send it through email, and/or tell your patients directly. You can do blood pressure and cholesterol checks and screen for bone density.
Be a speaker at your local library
Call your local library and inquire about becoming a regular speaker and educator of health and wellness. Select a different health topic each month such as immunizations, medication safety, and proper disposal of medications. Invite pharmacy students to help prepare and present the health topics. This can be a great learning experience for them and can boost their confidence. Involve the audience through interactive presentations. Encourage your audience to ask questions.
Hold regular community mental health discussions
The COVID-19 pandemic changed the world with many people, adults and children, dealing with many life changes. As a community pharmacist, you can promote mental health awareness by holding periodic group discussions with patients. Discuss such things as mental health problems, available treatment options, and lifestyle changes they can make to promote a healthy mindset. You might consider inviting a counselor or mental health provider to help lead discussions.
Participate in career days at different schools
Middle schools and high schools hold career days every year. Reach out to local schools and discuss your pharmacy career path. Educate them on the role of a pharmacist and the various career opportunities such as hospital, community, informatics, drug information, and medical writing. This is a great way to promote the pharmacy profession and educate the public. Invite pharmacy students to help out, too! This will enhance their communication skills.
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