Exactly one month ago, the World Pharmacists Day (WPD) was celebrated on the 25th of September globally. As an annual event, the theme for 2022 was “Pharmacy united in action for a healthier world”. According to the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP), this theme was set to call attention to pharmacy’s positive impact on health around the world and aimed to further strengthen solidarity among the profession.
In line with this, the Medical Mirror collated an online vox pop from pharmacists across Nigeria, in different sectors, area of specialization or niche in pharmacy. Below are their opinions about the World Pharmacists Day and the Pharmacy Profession as a whole.
O.O.S., Southern Nigeria, Community Pharmacy
MM: How are you faring as a pharmacist in today’s Nigeria?
It’s not been easy but I’m trying my best.
MM: What are some of the known and unknown challenges posed against pharmacists in the governmental and private sector?
Known challenges are poor renumeration, too many taxes by federal, states and local government agencies, burglars, excessive association yearly dues, bad economic state of our country etc.
MM: Any core differences between pharmacy and pharmacology? And is there any competition between both profession and even other professionals?
One clear difference between pharmacy and pharmacology is the clinical training that pharmacy students undergo during their programs. Another difference is our deeper knowledge of microbiology and pharmacognosy. Personally, I don’t think there should be any competition between us because the differences are clear. I think our egos bring in these competitions.
There are lots of competitions between the medical profession and pharmacy. However, one of the most notable causes is the opposing efforts by the medical profession to legalize the “Doctor of Pharmacy” in Nigeria. I don’t know why Nigerian doctors are against it, because it well known to be the practice all over the world.
MM: As we celebrate your profession on the “World Pharmacist Day”, what is your message to fellow pharmacist and the world?
The theme for this year WPD is “Pharmacy united in action for a healthier world”. We need to be united in our actions to have a healthier nation. The young pharmacists need to be ready to learn from the older pharmacists and vice versa.
MM: Knowing fully well, how your profession consumes time, energy and space in the work force, how do you feel about the recognition given to your profession in every aspect?
Don’t let’s talk about this. We are seen as just “a drug dispenser”. The recognition is very low compared to our contribution and relevance.
MM: Does the stress worth the gains attached to the profession, and what opportunities are available for pharmacist outside the regular medicine field?
No. It doesn’t. Not at all.
MM: Are there any local or international associations or organizations that are in line or in support of your profession? if yes, can you mention them?
Yes, we have. Locally, we PSN – pharmaceutical society of Nigeria. Internationally, we have FIP – International pharmaceutical Federation.
MM: The production and distribution of fake medications and hard drugs is a current epidemic we are facing as a country and it has hindered holistic healthcare to the citizens, what do you think is the role of pharmacists in combating this problem?
I think it’s the government that lacks the will power to fight this. Pharmacists are really pushing for legislation to prevent and reduce this menace, but the government are protecting some interests. Because if this isn’t true, why would a government sit down and watch its citizens consume fake drugs and not declared a war against the perpetrators. It’s disheartening, I must be honest.
MM: Finally, any advice to people aspiring to be pharmacists or planning to switch profession?
For those aspiring to become pharmacists, pharmacy is a noble profession. It takes a whole lot of hardwork, discipline and diligence to become one. It’s also an interesting profession, it connects all medical professions. Don’t choose pharmacy because you perceive it to be a lucrative profession. This perception can get you into troubles. If your desire is to help mankind, you’re welcome.
V.M., Southern Nigeria, Marketing and Sales, Pharmaceutical Industry
MM: How are you faring as a pharmacist in today’s Nigeria?
Oh well!
MM: What are some of the known and unknown challenges posed against pharmacists in the governmental and private sector?
We are limited.
MM: Any core differences between pharmacy and pharmacology? And is there any competition between both profession and even other professionals?
Pharmacy is wholistic, pharmacology is sort of limited… For me, no competition; I feel they shouldn’t be separate. Pharmacology is one of the many aspects of pharmacy.
MM: As we celebrate your profession on the “World Pharmacist Day”, what is your message to fellow pharmacist and the world?
Keep being authentic. Stop trying to be Doctors
MM: Knowing fully well, how your profession consumes time, energy and space in the work force, how do you feel about the recognition given to your profession in every aspect?
We’re not recognized enough.
MM: Does the stress worth the gains attached to the profession, and what opportunities are available for pharmacist outside the regular medicine field?
The stress is not worth it.
MM: Are there any local or international associations or organizations that are in line or in support of your profession? if yes, can you mention them?
There’s the PSN; Pharmacists Society of Nigeria I guess.
MM: The production and distribution of fake medications and hard drugs is a current epidemic we are facing as a country and it has hindered holistic healthcare to the citizens, what do you think is the role of pharmacists in combating this problem?
We should be united in ensuring only professionals handle the drug market but that’s not the case.
MM: Finally, any advice to people aspiring to be pharmacists or planning to switch profession?
The Lord is your muscle.
S. U., Southern Nigeria, Supply Chain, Pharmaceutical Technology
MM: How are you faring as a pharmacist in today’s Nigeria?
Taking it one day at a time.
MM: What are some of the known and unknown challenges posed against pharmacists in the governmental and private sector?
Unregulated supply chain.
MM: Any core differences between pharmacy and pharmacology? And is there any competition between both profession and even other professionals?
The roles are different, so I wouldn’t say competition. I’d just say everyone needs to understand there’s space for everyone to thrive.
MM: As we celebrate your profession on the “World Pharmacist Day”, what is your message to fellow pharmacist and the world?
There’s so much more you can be.
MM: Knowing fully well, how your profession consumes time, energy and space in the work force, how do you feel about the recognition given to your profession in every aspect?
Hmmm…
MM: Does the stress worth the gains attached to the profession, and what opportunities are available for pharmacist outside the regular medicine field?
Hmmm…
MM: Are there any local or international associations or organizations that are in line or in support of your profession? if yes, can you mention them?
Not sure.
MM: The production and distribution of fake medications and hard drugs is a current epidemic we are facing as a country and it has hindered holistic healthcare to the citizens, what do you think is the role of pharmacists in combating this problem?
Pharmacists need to be equipped with knowledge and resources.
MM: Finally, any advice to people aspiring to be pharmacists or planning to switch profession?
Do you.
A. O. O., Southern Nigeria, Regulatory Pharmacy
MM: How are you faring as a pharmacist in Nigeria today?
Hmmm, Average.
MM: What are some of the known and unknown challenges posed against pharmacists in the governmental and private sector?
Poor renumeration, no residency opportunities.
MM: Any core differences between pharmacy and pharmacology? And is there any competition between both profession and even other professionals?
Yes, there is. We are the main custodian of drugs; we produce and dispense. While the pharmacologists are drug action testers majorly.
MM: As we celebrate your profession on the “World Pharmacist Day”, what is your message to fellow pharmacist and the world?
Honour yourself and join hands together to make the world a better place.
MM: Knowing fully well, how your profession consumes time, energy and space in the work force, how do you feel about the recognition given to your profession in every aspect?
Poor, it’s not respected enough.
MM: Does the stress worth the gains attached to the profession, and what opportunities are available for pharmacist outside the regular medicine field?
Hmmm, it is based on what you do. Yes, there are other opportunities such as, Clinical trial fields, Regulatory Specialist, Project Managers etc.
MM: Are there any local or international associations or organizations that are in line or in support of your profession? if yes, can you mention them?
Yes. PSN, PSN-YPG, FIP, FIP-YPG.
MM: The production and distribution of fake medications and hard drugs is a current epidemic we are facing as a country and it has hindered holistic healthcare to the citizens, what do you think is the role of pharmacists in combating this problem?
First, the government need to give a helping hand to pharmacist in combating Open Drug Market if that is settled, things will be in order
MM: Finally, any advice to people aspiring to be pharmacists or planning to switch profession?
Do what makes you happy. Pharmacy is an interesting profession, If you’re in an organised society.
A. E. V., Northern Nigeria, Pharmaceutical Medical Representative
MM: How are you faring as a pharmacist in Nigeria today?
We are managing.
MM: What are some of the known and unknown challenges posed against pharmacists in the governmental and private sector?
Poor renumeration.
MM: Any core differences between pharmacy and pharmacology? And is there any competition between both profession and even other professionals?
There is significant difference. Pharmacology is one the various aspect of Pharmacy. It is a discipline under Pharmacy.
MM: As we celebrate your profession on the “World Pharmacist Day”, what is your message to fellow pharmacist and the world?
Let’s join hands and make Pharmacy great
MM: Knowing fully well, how your profession consumes time, energy and space in the work force, how do you feel about the recognition given to your profession in every aspect?
Little recognition is given to our profession.
MM: Does the stress worth the gains attached to the profession, and what opportunities are available for pharmacist outside the regular medicine field?
No. A whole lot of opportunities are available.
MM: Are there any local or international associations or organizations that are in line or in support of your profession? if yes, can you mention them?
FIP.
MM: The production and distribution of fake medications and hard drugs is a current epidemic we are facing as a country and it has hindered holistic healthcare to the citizens, what do you think is the role of pharmacists in combating this problem?
Combating fake drug has more to do with government’s will power to curb it and has little to do with the role of pharmacist.
MM: Finally, any advice to people aspiring to be pharmacists or planning to switch profession?
The space is wide enough to accommodate as many as possible who desire to be in the ecosystem.
A. A. A., Northern Nigeria, Clinical Pharmacy and Public Health
MM: How are you faring as a pharmacist in Nigeria today?
The outcome is not commensurate to the input, in terms of financial remuneration.
MM: What are some of the known and unknown challenges posed against pharmacists in the governmental and private sector?
Lack of sponsorship for training and retraining of pharmacist to improve on patient/client-centred care.
MM: Any core differences between pharmacy and pharmacology? And is there any competition between both profession and even other professionals?
There are differences between pharmacy and pharmacology. There might be segregation between the pharmacist and pharmacologist in Nigeria.
MM: As we celebrate your profession on the “World Pharmacist Day”, what is your message to fellow pharmacist and the world?
Pharmacist should improve on patient-centered specific care and knowledge of newer molecules to advice and recommend to other personnel for better prognosis.
MM: Knowing fully well, how your profession consumes time, energy and space in the work force, how do you feel about the recognition given to your profession in every aspect?
The health sector is peculiar; and periodic financial stimulus and other incentives, as well as public reward will engender good performance.
MM: Does the stress worth the gains attached to the profession, and what opportunities are available for pharmacist outside the regular medicine field?
The gain is not commensurate to the stress but together we join hands. There are other veritable opportunities for pharmacists in manufacturing, research, technology… depending on where one’s passion lies.
MM: Are there any local or international associations or organizations that are in line or in support of your profession? if yes, can you mention them?
Yes. United Nation AIDS programme and others.
MM: The production and distribution of fake medications and hard drugs is a current epidemic we are facing as a country and it has hindered holistic healthcare to the citizens, what do you think is the role of pharmacists in combating this problem?
1. Education and sensitization 2. Improve tertiary institution on manufacturing 3. Identify source and report to regulatory bodies 4. Recommend more stringent punishment to serve as deterrent 5. Improve rural access by monitoring patent and proprietary shop outlets.
MM: Finally, any advice to people aspiring to be pharmacists or planning to switch profession?
Pharmacy is a noble profession and requires individuals who are discipline with positive character and ready learn.
J. R., Northern Nigeria, Hospital Pharmacy
MM: How are you faring as a pharmacist in Nigeria today?
Very good.
MM: What are some of the known and unknown challenges posed against pharmacists in the governmental and private sector?
Drugs patent dealer interruptions in profession.
MM: Any core differences between pharmacy and pharmacology? And is there any competition between both profession and even other professionals?
Pharmacology is a subset of pharmacy.
MM: As we celebrate your profession on the “World Pharmacist Day”, what is your message to fellow pharmacist and the world?
It’s only pharmacists that can give genuine information about drugs.
MM: Knowing fully well, how your profession consumes time, energy and space in the work force, how do you feel about the recognition given to your profession in every aspect?
Government should create more Awareness concerning Pharmacy profession.
MM: Does the stress worth the gains attached to the profession, and what opportunities are available for pharmacist outside the regular medicine field?
Neutral.
MM: Are there any local or international associations or organizations that are in line or in support of your profession? if yes, can you mention them?
ISPOR –International Society for Pharmacoeconomics and Outcomes Research.
MM: The production and distribution of fake medications and hard drugs is a current epidemic we are facing as a country and it has hindered holistic healthcare to the citizens, what do you think is the role of pharmacists in combating this problem?
To regulate and keep to the distribution of genuine drugs product.
MM: Finally, any advice to people aspiring to be pharmacists or planning to switch profession?
Yes, pharmacy practice is flexible in terms of practice.
O. A., Southern Nigeria, Pharmaceutical Industry
MM: How are you faring as a pharmacist in Nigeria today?
Great!
MM: What are some of the known and unknown challenges posed against pharmacists in the governmental and private sector?
Lack of appreciation from other medical professionals.
MM: Any core differences between pharmacy and pharmacology? And is there any competition between both profession and even other professionals?
Yes, there is a difference. Pharmacy is the study of medicine, and it has different aspects. Pharmacology is the study of drugs.
MM: As we celebrate your profession on the “World Pharmacist Day”, what is your message to fellow pharmacist and the world?
As men of honour, we must always join hands.
MM: Knowing fully well, how your profession consumes time, energy and space in the work force, how do you feel about the recognition given to your profession in every aspect?
I feel we need more recognition and appreciation from the government and individuals.
MM: Does the stress worth the gains attached to the profession, and what opportunities are available for pharmacist outside the regular medicine field?
Yes, Research is an interesting aspect of Pharmacy.
MM: Are there any local or international associations or organizations that are in line or in support of your profession? if yes, can you mention them?
I don’t know of any.
MM: The production and distribution of fake medications and hard drugs is a current epidemic we are facing as a country and it has hindered holistic healthcare to the citizens, what do you think is the role of pharmacists in combating this problem?
Education. We need to educate people about fake drugs and how to avoid them. Also, NAFDAC needs to take their work more seriously.
MM: Finally, any advice to people aspiring to be pharmacists or planning to switch profession?
Pharmacy is an interesting profession. They will enjoy it if they put their heart to it.
Editor’s note:
Name initials and regions were used for confidentiality purpose. Photo credit – HCPAN platform.
