World Pharmacists Day 2023: Theme, history, significance of the occasion

Every year on September 25, World Pharmacists Day shines a spotlight on the unsung heroes of the healthcare world – pharmacists. While doctors and nurses often take center stage, pharmacists play an indispensable role in ensuring patients receive the right medications and proper guidance on their usage. This day honours their tireless dedication and vital contributions to healthcare.

2 things you need to know

• World Pharmacists Day celebrates vital contributions to healthcare.
• Pharmacists ensure safe, effective medication usage globally.

World Pharmacists Day 2023: A brief history

The roots of World Pharmacists Day can be traced back to 2009 when the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) established this commemorative event during the World Congress of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences in Istanbul, Turkey. Interestingly, FIP itself was founded on September 25, 1912. Consequently, September 25 was chosen as the date to celebrate and acknowledge the pharmacy profession.

(World Pharmacists Day can be traced back to 2009 | Image: Shutterstock)

FIP, headquartered in the Netherlands, is a global non-governmental organisation that serves as the voice of pharmacists, pharmaceutical scientists and educators worldwide. It fosters the advancement of pharmaceutical sciences, education and practice through extensive networks and collaborations.

World Pharmacists Day 2023: Significance of the occasion

Pharmacy is an interdisciplinary field bridging medical science and chemistry, essential for modern society and healthcare systems. Pharmacists are responsible for drug development, manufacturing, safe utilisation and disposal. They ensure that medicines are not only effective but also safe. Without their expertise, the world would lack reliable access to essential medications and pharmaceuticals.

World Pharmacists Day 2023: Theme this year

This year's World Pharmacists Day carries the theme "Pharmacy strengthening health systems." In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, it highlights the pivotal role pharmacists have played in supporting health systems globally. They have been instrumental in providing clinical interventions such as COVID testing, vaccination, treatment and in-patient care, with the American Pharmacists Association reporting over 350 million such interventions in the US alone.

A well-functioning health system necessitates accessible medicines, trained healthcare professionals, robust infrastructure, evidence-based policies and adequate funding. Pharmacists are central to achieving these goals by ensuring access to medicines, safe supply chains and responsible drug usage. FIP, in line with its mission to advance pharmaceutical practice, science and education, is working to transform pharmacy practice and empower pharmacists to provide even more comprehensive healthcare services.

World Pharmacists Day is a timely reminder of the indispensable role pharmacists play in safeguarding our health. As we celebrate this day, let us recognize and appreciate the tireless efforts of pharmacists worldwide and their commitment to enhancing global healthcare systems.