Pharmacists from across the Virgin Islands have been called to unite in action for a healthier world as the Territory prepares to observe World Pharmacist Day tomorrow September 23.

Chief of Drugs and Pharmaceutical Services, Mrs. Gracia Wheatley-Smith said the day is being used to recognise pharmacists for their role in providing optimum pharmacy care to ensure the best possible health outcomes. 

“We want to celebrate and acknowledge our hard working pharmacist who have been dedicated to the people of this Territory over the years.  Especially during the aftermath of Hurricanes Irma and Maria and more recently with the pandemic making sure people had accesses to life saving medications,” Mrs. Wheatley-Smith said.

The Chief of Drugs and Pharmaceutical Services is encouraging persons to build a relationship with their pharmacist and the take the time out to speak with them regarding their medication, usage and possible side effects.  She also recommends as much as possible for persons to fill their prescription in one location which enables that pharmacy to have their records and history and be able to better flag possible drug interactions.

 “Remember medicines are foreign entities that you take into your bodies, therefore anything can happen, they react with food, drink, other medications even the sunlight.  Love your pharmacist and build a relationship with your pharmacist,” Mrs. Wheatley-Smith concluded.

The Ministry of Health and Social Development is committed to ensuring that all aspects of the environment with the potential to negatively impact the health of the population are managed efficiently to enable all persons in the BVI to attain and maintain optimal health and well-being.