Investing in science and innovation is one of six key areas of development needed to prepare for future pandemics, the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) says in a new report “Pandemic preparedness, response and recovery: Lessons learnt for global pharmacy” has been published.
The other five areas are:
• Country leadership;
• System transformation;
• Pharmaceutical practice;
• Workforce and education; and
• Life-course immunisation.
“As frontline healthcare professionals, pharmacists played a vital role in pandemic response efforts, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to patient care and public health. This report seeks to outline the valuable lessons learned from the challenges posed by COVID-19 and aims to provide pharmacists worldwide with essential insights for enhancing future pandemic preparedness, response and delivery,” says FIP CEO Dr Catherine Duggan.
The report contains case studies from different countries and is supplemented by a digital resource collating further useful materials, including research, from the global health community and health professions.
“FIP continues to play a pivotal role in advancing the pharmacy profession and promoting global health. We are committed to providing pharmacists with timely and relevant information to navigate the evolving landscape of healthcare challenges, including pandemics, so that they can continue to be at the forefront of safeguarding public health,” Dr Duggan said.