DrugNet and the Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana (PSGH), are pleased to announce the return of the "Ask Your Pharmacist Health Show" for its 4th season, commencing on July 7, 2024.

The show produced by PharmHub Consult aims to highlight the professional responsibilities of pharmacists and educate the public on the rational use of medicines and other topics of pertinent topics of public health concerns.

Acknowledging the pervasive issue of drug abuse in Ghana and its detrimental effects on health and society, this season focuses on the theme "Impact of Substance Abuse on Individuals and Its Repercussions on Public Health." The program will address critical issues related to drug abuse and offer valuable information and support to the public.

"Ask Your Pharmacist" is an interactive health program dedicated to promoting proper medication usage and preventing drug abuse. By engaging with healthcare providers, government agencies, civil society organizations, and communities, we aim to implement a comprehensive, multi-sectoral approach to combatting drug abuse.

Significant impacts on the public

a) Increased awareness: It raises awareness about health various health issues, promoting understanding and knowledge of diseases, prevention methods, and healthy lifestyles.

b) Improved public health outcomes: The programme also seeks to contribute to improved public health outcomes, such as lower rates of chronic diseases, infectious diseases, and health disparities among different population groups.

c) Reduction in Drug Abuse: Through this education, we are able to achieve a reduction in the misuse and abuse of drugs. This ultimately will ensure the safer use of medicines and promote a more healthy population.

d) Reduced Healthcare costs: With increased prevention and early detection, there is a reduction in healthcare costs associated with treating advanced diseases and managing complications.

e) Community safety: Reducing drug use and providing support for those struggling with addiction can lead to safer communities with lower crime rates, as drug-related offenses decrease

Significant Impacts on the Pharmacy Profession and Practice

a) Professional Visibility: Featuring pharmacists as experts enhances the visibility of the profession, emphasizing their role in promoting rational medicine use and addressing drug abuse issues.

b) Public Trust and Credibility: Collaboration with reputable organizations like the Ministry of Health enhances the credibility of pharmacists and their profession, fostering greater acceptance of pharmacist-led interventions.

c) Expanded Scope of Practice: Participation allows pharmacists to showcase their expertise beyond traditional settings, educating the public on medication management, disease prevention, and public health initiatives.

d) Advocacy and Policy Influence: Through involvement in awareness campaigns and rehabilitation programs, pharmacists advocate for policy changes supporting drug abuse prevention and management.

e) Inter-Professional Collaboration: The programme also seeks to promote collaboration among pharmacists and other healthcare providers as the show brings together other healthcare providers to discuss and share their insights on the programme.

f) Impact on Practice Settings: Pharmacists in various settings experience increased patient engagement and inquiries, improving health outcomes through informed interactions.

Previous editions addressed critical health topics including substance abuse, HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment, dangers of drug peddling, responsible
antibiotic use, sexually transmitted infections, gestational diabetes, fatty liver diseases, hypertension management, liver metabolism, glaucoma, etc.

The "Ask Your Pharmacist Health Show" is organized in collaboration with esteemed partners including the Ministry of Health of Ghana, DrugNet, The Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana, and media partners such as TV3, Joy Prime TV, eTV Ghana, Happy FM, GhanaWeb, The Business & Financial Times, PCGTV, and the MOH TV.

The Ask Your Pharmacist health show will be airing at the following times; Sundays at 1:30 pm on TV3, Sundays at 2:30 pm on JoyPrime TV, Sundays at 3:30 pm on PCGTV, and Sundays at 6:30 pm on eTV Ghana and on YouTube at Drugbase TV.

Join us on July 7, 2024, as we bring together professionals and the public to address the critical issues surrounding drug abuse and other related matters. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from experts and engage in informative discussions.

Stay tuned for updates and mark your calendars for July 7, 2024. Let's stay informed and healthy together!

Season four of Ask Your Pharmacist is proudly brought to you by DrugNet, The Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana, Letap Pharmaceuticals, Chango, Luex Healthcare, Mega Lifesciences, Samospharma Limited, Bel Aqua, and the Tema Christian Eye Center. This programme is also in partnership with the Ministry of Health.