Pharmacy Month 2023: Uniting for Healthcare Excellence

Dear Members,

We are excited to bring you the highlights of Pharmacy Month, celebrated every September. This special month was observed under the inspiring theme, "Pharmacy United in Promoting Healthcare," with the following subheadings: Promote, Provide, and Empower.

Denlyn Shopping Centre Screening Event in Mamelodi: 15 September 2023

The Denlyn Shopping Centre screening event in Mamelodi stands as a shining example of collaboration. Our team joined forces with esteemed partners, including the Tshwane University of Technology Association of Pharmacy Students (TUTAPS), Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University Association of Pharmacy Students (SMUAPS), and the The Pharmaceutical Services Department of the City of Tshwane Department of Health. Together, we dedicated a day to conducting comprehensive health assessments for adults, which included glucose monitoring, lung function assessments, BMI evaluations, blood pressure readings, and HIV testing.

This event was made possible thanks to the unwavering support of our generous sponsors, Cipla, Virbac, and Dr. Seletela. The tireless dedication of our team of nurses, pharmacists, and pharmacy students was remarkable. They were not only excited but deeply appreciative. the commitment to deliver a successful campaign played a vital role in sustaining their energy throughout the day, allowing us to offer invaluable health services to our community. This event exemplified the true spirit of unity within our profession and demonstrated the positive impact we can make when we work together.

This initiative showcased the expertise and compassion that pharmacists bring to their communities. We offered essential health screenings, provided valuable health advice, and ensured that the public left with a clearer understanding of their health status.

Pharmacy Month is a testament to our commitment to improving public health and fulfilling our role as the leaders and guardians of the pharmacy profession.

Commemoration at Kgosi Mampuru Prison: 21 September

On September 21, we had the honor and privilege of being invited by the Department of Correctional Services to participate in the commemoration of Pharmacy Month at Kgosi Mampuru Prison alongside the correctional service pharmacists. Our Deputy Chairperson, Byron Chukwu, addressed the attendees and emphasized the importance of unity and active participation within our profession. Furthermore, he challenges the new crop of pharmacists to become more active in the profession by always putting up their hand when needed.

In his inspiring address, Mr. Chukwu highlighted how unity among pharmacists and active involvement in the profession can lead to positive changes not only within the healthcare system but also in diverse environments like correctional facilities. He stressed the role of pharmacists in providing essential healthcare services and ensuring the well-being of inmates.

Mr. Chukwu's speech served as a poignant reminder of the significant impact pharmacists can have in various settings. It underscored the importance of collaboration, shared goals, and the dedication of professionals in promoting healthcare, even within challenging environments. This event not only celebrated Pharmacy Month but also reinforced our commitment to fulfilling our role as the leaders and guardians of the pharmacy profession.

Upcoming Events:

We have a planned CPD event scheduled for October/November 2023. Please keep an eye on your emails for further information regarding this event.

Your Voice Matters:

We continue to emphasize the significance of unity and active participation within our profession. The future of pharmacy is in our hands, and your voice matters. Let's work together to ensure that the pharmacy profession continues to thrive and make a difference in the healthcare sector.

We encourage all our esteemed members to reach out to our branch, share your ideas, and actively engage in our initiatives. Your involvement and contributions are invaluable, and they play a crucial role in shaping the future of pharmacy. Together, we can achieve even greater heights and continue to serve our communities with excellence and dedication.

We extend our heartfelt appreciation to each one of you for your unwavering dedication to the pharmacy profession. Stay tuned for more updates, opportunities, and ways to engage with us as we move forward.

Warm regards,

PSSA Pretoria Branch