Punjab Council highlights pharmacists’ vital role in healthcare

LAHORE: Pharmacists play a crucial role in strengthening healthcare systems, ensuring the safe use of medicines and improving patient care, Punjab Pharmacy Council Secretary Dr Zaka-ur-Rehman said during a ceremony marking World Pharmacists Day in Lahore.

The event was organised at the Punjab Pharmacy Council and attended by council staff and professionals associated with the pharmacy sector. Dr Zaka-ur-Rehman cut a cake alongside council employees as part of the celebrations.

Addressing the gathering, the council secretary congratulated pharmacists, pharmacy assistants and other healthcare professionals working in the field.

He highlighted the importance of pharmacists in delivering quality healthcare, saying their responsibilities extend beyond dispensing medicines. According to him, pharmacists contribute to the effective provision of medicines and play an important role in supporting better patient care.

“Pharmacists are the backbone of improving the healthcare system,” Dr Zaka-ur-Rehman said, emphasising the profession’s contribution to medicine safety, healthcare delivery and patient well-being.

The ceremony also provided an opportunity for Punjab Pharmacy Council employees to reaffirm their commitment to strengthening the province’s pharmacy sector.

Staff members expressed support for initiatives aimed at improving professional standards, expanding employment opportunities and promoting transparency within the sector.

The council said the pharmacy profession remains an important component of the wider healthcare system, particularly as patients increasingly require safe, effective and properly managed medicines.

Pharmacists work at several stages of healthcare, including medicine supply, storage, dispensing and guidance on the appropriate use of medicines. Their work can help patients understand prescriptions and use medicines safely.

The event also highlighted the importance of continued cooperation among pharmacy professionals, regulatory bodies and other healthcare workers to improve services.

Staff members attending the ceremony reiterated their commitment to contributing to the development of the profession and supporting efforts to create greater opportunities for people entering the pharmacy field.

At the conclusion of the event, Dr Zaka-ur-Rehman appreciated the efforts of the Punjab Pharmacy Council staff and acknowledged their participation in promoting the pharmacy sector.

He also conveyed his best wishes to pharmacists, pharmacy assistants and healthcare professionals associated with the profession.

The World Pharmacists Day event served as a reminder of the role pharmacists can play in strengthening patient-centred healthcare and ensuring access to quality medicines.

With the sector facing the continuing need for professional development, transparency and improved employment opportunities, the Punjab Pharmacy Council said it would remain focused on supporting the pharmacy profession and contributing to better healthcare services across the province.