By Ojoma Akor
The Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN) Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has enjoined community pharmacists to integrate and harness the benefits of technology in their practice.
The Chairman of the FCT chapter, Pharm. Aloba Olatunji Isaac made the call during the third edition of the association ‘s business summit in Abuja.It was themed “Technology Infusion in Healthcare Practices: The Panacea for the Future of Community Pharmacy’.
Pharm. Oloba said the summit was geared towards empowering the members of the association on continuous professional learning experience.
He said, “You need to continue to learn. You don’t stop learning as a professional, and it is actually a very good avenue to put knowledge back into the society.”
He emphasized that though artificial intelligence has many benefits, he added that it cannot however replace human practice of pharmacy.
“So that is why our members need to be empowered to know how to actually involve and integrate the use of technology into their practice, ” he said.
He also enjoined members of the public to seek the guidance of pharmacists in taking medications.
The keynote speaker at the event, Pharm. John Omale said technology was crucial in community pharmacy practice especially with the backdrop of evolving practice.
He said, “Our practices as professionals must evolve to remain meaningful and effective. We cannot continue doing things the same way and expect different results. Technology must be at the heart of that transformation.
“We must also recognize that the market, regulations, and mainstream practices are shifting. To survive and thrive, we must adapt, innovate, and adopt standards that ensure quality and profitability without compromising ethical values.”
He added that technology could help improve patient safety, and deliver higher-quality services.
“The world of healthcare is dynamic, and professionals must stay ahead of developments in science, technology, and regulation. Only then can we build a system where every patient receives appropriate, safe, and effective treatment”, he added.
