Today's Perspective
Kristin Wiisanen, PharmD, FAPhA, FCCP, Pharmacy Today editor in chief
When I first began practicing as an immunizing pharmacist in 1999, the often-heard mantra was “a rising tide lifts all boats,” referring to the positive impact that pharmacy-based immunization delivery could have on interdisciplinary vaccine advocacy and public health efforts. We’ve now seen the benefits of improving access to needed vaccines and, in many ways, have transitioned to an “all-hands-on-deck” approach to pharmacy-based immunization delivery.
This month’s cover story focuses on the innovative approaches that some pharmacists are taking to advocate for immunization in their community and to meet patients’ needs.
These include pharmacists like Chichi Momah, PharmD, owner of Springfield Pharmacy located in a suburb of Philadelphia. From coordinating twice-weekly COVID-19 vaccine clinics serving 1,200 patients a day to identifying novel outreach methods that reach unvaccinated underserved minority populations in her community, Momah has been willing to go the extra mile.
Or Matthew Rafa, PharmD, a pharmacist in Wheeling, WV, who met kids at their level on their first vaccine visit, using creative icing strategies, lidocaine gel, and conversations about Iron Man and Disney Princesses to help his young patients feel more comfortable. At their next visit for a second dose, most of them came back vaccine confident. “They’d come in, climb up in the chair, and say, ‘OK, I’m ready,’” said Rafa.
In this month’s issue, you’ll also get the latest info on using apps to help with blood pressure control; get easy strategies to help your patients know if it’s COVID-19, influenza, or a cold; and learn about a new first-in-class agent for treating depression. See the highlights of the latest technician workforce report from the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board and get your CPE credit with this month’s article on improving health outcomes through social determinants of health.
I never fail to be impressed by the hard work, determination, and care that pharmacists show when it comes to meeting their patients’ needs and being a member of the immunization crew. Adding in a dose of creativity to help reach vaccine-hesitant and underserved populations increases the reach and value of pharmacists as immunization providers.
Pharmacists, keep on innovating today and every day!
Have a great Today! ■