Association Perspective
Michael D. Hogue, PharmD, FAPhA, FNAP, FFIP, EVP and CEO of APhA
Pharmacists have unfortunately been on the receiving end of some tough situations. These include patients screaming at us at the counter, nurses cursing us under their breath on the unit, and even worse—a patient pulling a gun and demanding drugs or money. Incivility toward pharmacy personnel has gotten out of hand.
Unpacking the emotions of difficult experiences takes time. And here’s the thing: unpacking means not internalizing. It means that when we have an experience in life that leaves us numb, we must find a place and space where we can talk about it. For some, it’s a licensed professional counselor; for others, it’s a good friend; for yet others, the outlet is a blog or social media. Every person has their own path to healing.
Unpacking also means not putting things back in the box. So often, the hindrance to healing from a difficult time or trauma is that we talk about our issue, and rather than leaving that hurtful situation or letting that feeling or past trauma go, we pick it back up, reinternalize it, and then allow it to own us for another day.
I’ve done this a million times. Sometimes those box lids open and close too fast for me to let go completely, and past negative experiences get replayed in my head over and again.
The thing about trauma in our lives is that we’re not the only ones who go through this. We might feel alone in the moment, but I can assure you that you are not alone despite the fact that we all have different life experiences.
We can’t unpack and let go because the incivility keeps happening. The patient is not always right. Colleagues shouldn’t talk to each other in condescending tones. Boundaries and bright lines need to be enforced.
This American Pharmacists Month, APhA is focusing on bolstering consumer confidence in pharmacists and an awareness that kindness and courtesy are the hallmark of a great partnership with pharmacists to ensure optimal care.
While we can’t take away the trauma of past events or experiences, APhA is dedicated to working with consumer organizations, the media, other health care professionals, and employers to provide a safe environment to meet patients’ needs and reduce the risk of future events.
As we embark on a month dedicated to celebrating pharmacy professionals, I want to give you a word of encouragement. You are making a difference. Even if the negative noise around you is loud, you do have a purpose. Here at APhA we see you and we support you. We will continue to advocate for you every day. For every pharmacist. For all of pharmacy. ■