January 12 - National Pharmacist Day

Happy National Pharmacist Day! On January 12, this day annually recognizes and honors all pharmacists across the nation.

The role of pharmacists has shifted over the years. Where once they served as the classical “lick, stick and pour” dispensary, they now serve as an integrated member of the health care team. They are directly involved in patient care and often play a vital role in a patient’s recovery.

  

Historically, pharmacists primarily checked and distributed drugs to doctors for patient prescribed medication. In modern times, pharmacists advise patients and health care providers on the selection, dosages, interactions and the side effects of prescriptions.

  

Additionally, their role includes being a learned intermediary between a prescriber and a patient. Monitoring the health and progress of patients, pharmacists can then ensure the safe and effective use of medication.

Pharmacists work long hours, usually standing the entire time. Along with dispensing pills and providing advice on medications, pharmacists also administer immunizations. Pharmacists who conduct research discover and test new medications as well.

• •  Do you wonder how English writer Dame Agatha Christie came to know so much about poisons for her murder mysteries? She was once a pharmacy dispenser during World War I.  
• •  Coca-Cola®, Pepsi®, Dr. Pepper®, and ginger ale were all invented by pharmacists 
• •  Before running for President of the United States, American politician and former 38th U.S. Vice President Hubert Humphrey earned his pharmacy license and worked in his father’s pharmacy. 
• •  English-born American industrialist and candlemaker William Procter, Jr. dedicated his career to the science of pharmacy. He wrote the first textbook on pharmacy for students in the United States and advocated for the founding of the American Pharmaceutical Association (APhA). His dedication earned him the name Father of Pharmacy.
    
  HOW TO OBSERVE
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• Anyone who has required the services of a pharmacist, take time to thank them today. Give them a shout out. Whether they work in a facility or local pharmacy, they will appreciate the good word. If you’re considering a career, learn more about pharmacy. Use #NationalPharmacistDay to post on social media.

HISTORY 

While National Day Calendar® were unable to find the exact creator of this observance, it is indicated that it is likely an association of pharmaceutical groups that are founders.

Related Observances

• •  World Pharmacist Day
    

#NationalPharmacistDay 
@APhAPharmacists 

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