Health Emergency with COVID-19 and Supporting Role of Community Pharmacists in Pakistan
Abstract
Background: The infection (COVID-19) inflicted via newly discovered strain of the virus was first spotted in Wuhan in December 2019 and established as a worldwide public health emergency on 30th January, 2020 demanding support from all healthcare sectors, on urgent basis.
Objective: The objective of this review is to highlight and appreciate roles of community pharmacists during COVID-19 pandemic.
Methodology: For literature review various databases were used such as Google Scholar, Springer Link, PubMed, MEDLINE and Science Direct.
Results: The proposed provisions such as social distancing and lockdowns to quite an extent aided in restricting the dispersion of the virus. In addition, wearing face mask, washing hands, using sanitizer with periodic disinfection of surrounding was recommended. These measures were registered to provide protection to all and positively influence the life of special population i.e., those suffering from chronic diseases, as they don't approach the healthcare facilities on a regular basis for their everyday care and supervision, in terms of medication. However, the easiest approach to gain access to sophisticated health facilities in such conditions remained and is through retail pharmacy outlets.
Conclusion: The existing healthcare system with surging stress and fear can be profoundly reduced by participation of community pharmacists and their thorough involvement in managing chronic illnesses and strengthening medication adherence.
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