The Role of Pharmacist in Prevention of COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

After the first case of COVID-19 was confirmed in Georgia, the demand for pharmaceutical care in pharmacies has increased; therefore, the role of pharmacists during the pandemic has become a topic of interest. The aim of the study was to research the importance of pharmaceutical care in pharmacies in prevention of the disease. Study also tried to capture overall attitudes towards involving pharmacists in healthcare projects such as rapid population testing and vaccinations. The surveys, which were specifically designed to address the role of pharmacists in prevention of pandemic, were administered in 3 groups: 522 patients, 1289 pharmacists, and 200 physicians. The study found that 82.2% of the patients who visited pharmacy during pandemic bought medication for prevention of COVID-19, and took guidance from pharmacists on recommended use of the purchased medication. 66.9% of the patients, 77.1% of the pharmacists, and 43.2% of the physicians believe that pharmaceutical care plays an important role in the prevention of COVID-19. 63.1% of the patients, 52% of the pharmacists and 45% of the physicians have a desire for rapid testing of Covid-19 to be administered in pharmacies as well. The desire for pharmacists to be involved in vaccination was expressed most in patients (43.6%), followed by pharmacists (38.7%), and doctors (36.7%). The study supports the idea that pharmaceutical care plays an important role in pandemic prevention. Most patients who participated in the study believe that pharmacists should be involved in pandemic prevention activities - Covid tests and vaccinations. It is recommended that the health care system in Georgia develops systematic projects that bring us closer to the Western pharmaceutical experience (GPP). Projects, that support collaboration of medical professionals and ensures training of pharmacists along with physicians in pandemic prevention, should be planned.