National Pharmacist Day

Children can catch up to 12 colds a year, while adults average two to four times.  Where would we be without our pharmacist?  It's time to thank the friendly workers who kept us healthy throughout the year.  Get ready to celebrate National Pharmacists Day on January 12. This day focuses on the importance of pharmacists and it celebrates the extent of their influence on our health and well-being.  The #APharmacistIs campaign, launched just two years ago, links both photos (and thanks) to those who have helped us with our medications and more.

History of National Pharmacist Day

National Pharmacists Day dates back several decades. “Historically, the pharmacist's primary role has been to test and dispense drugs to doctors for prescriptions; In modern times, pharmacists advise patients and healthcare providers. On the selection, dosage, interactions and side effects of prescriptions, serves as a useful intermediary between prescribers and patients", according to the National Day Calendar.  "By monitoring a patient's health and progress, pharmacists can then ensure safe and effective medication use."

On September 28, 1928, the first breakthrough antibiotic was founded.  Scottish scientist Alexander Fleming discovered penicillin.  That is when pharmacists became really needed to make these drugs.  It was said that the first pharmacies were established in AD 754 in Baghdad.

Then, on May 8, 1963, America's largest drug store opened.  CVS opened its doors, becoming the largest pharmacy in the United States, employing 24,000 pharmacists.  However, National Pharmacists Day was not celebrated all those years.  Only in recent years, people have started to recognize this day.

That said, the National Day Calendar can't pinpoint exactly which date becomes a national holiday.

How to hold National Pharmacist Day

1. Thank your pharmacist.

There is no better way to celebrate National Scientist's Day than to say thank you to your pharmacist.  Thank your pharmacist for their hard work.  It only takes a few minutes out of your day to walk to your local pharmacy to stop by and show your appreciation.

You can also send your pharmacist a letter or flowers.  Others may choose to send a small gift or a gift card with a thank you note to show their gratitude.  Your note might say something along the lines of “Thank you so much for all your help and support over the years! I appreciate the work you've done to help my family.  Moreover I stay healthy, and we want you to know how much we cherish you. Wishing you and your team a Happy National Pharmacist Day!"

Just a small gesture will go a long way and it will certainly be appreciated.

2. Share photos of your pharmacist and/or pharmacy on Instagram.

Go to Instagram to share photos of your pharmacist and/or pharmacy with the hashtag #APharmacistIs (just make sure you get permission first as you don't want to share photos of people they don't know!).  Then click the hashtag to see all the other pharmacists in the region featured on the national holiday.

You can also get to know all the pharmacists in your area this way, if you don't already have a pharmacy.  This is a great way to connect with pharmacists in your local area so you can stay healthy and have a support network around you.

3. Share kind words about your pharmacist on social media.

Go to Facebook or Twitter to post your thanks online.  Using hashtag #NationalPharmacistDay is a way to show your support.  Doing this will help spread the word about National Pharmacists Day to those who don't know about it.

Here's an example post for inspiration: "It's" National Pharmacists Day!  National Pharmacists Day, celebrated every year on January 12th, honors pharmacists of different specialties and in all contexts by recognizing their impact in healthcare.  Traditionally, a healthcare professional in a white coat, dispensing medication may be thought of when thinking of a pharmacist, but their role in the patient journey goes far beyond prescribing.  As important members of the healthcare team, pharmacists always make a difference in patients' lives.  #NationalPharmacistDay," PharmacyWeek wrote on Facebook.