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Pharmacists can dispense ‘some’ drugs

DUBAI — Pharmacists can dispense certain drugs after offering consultations to patients since they already have the clinical knowledge, reaffirmed a senior health official on March 10.

Speaking on the sidelines of three-day Dubai International Pharmaceuticals and Technologies Conference and Exhibition (DUPHAT 2008) which opened at the Dubai International Conference and Exhibition Centre, Dr Ali Al Sayed Hussain, Chairman of DUPHAT 2008, said that since continuous medical education was compulsory in the country, pharmacists continued to gain knowledge and, therefore, they could offer consultations to patients and dispense drugs on their own.

Dr Hussain said, “They are experts in medicine, and they should do their job properly as they are an important part of the medical teaam.”

The UAE Minister of Health, Humaid Mohammed Obaid Al Quttami opened the conference which will discuss a range of issues on the pharmaceutical industry.

At the conference, Qadhi Saeed Al Murooshid, Director General of Dubai Health Authority said, “Implementation of the Pharmacy Computer System, which was done last year, has significantly reduced medication errors and provided physicians with comprehensive information, database of patient profiles and clinical checks.”

While speaking to the press, he said that the system has decreased patient waiting times at the pharmacy and enhanced productivity of pharmacists. Referring to a session during the conference, Qadhi said, “The talk on ‘The experience of computerisation of pharmaceutical services in the department’ will present an in-depth understanding on the subject as the system. With its user-friendly modules and comprehensive features, it has already benefited patients.”‘

Giving details about the Pharmaceutical Services Department he said, “The department has tied-up with hospitals assuring continuous pharmaceutical services for in and outpatients, continuous supply of medicines as well other services. The department also facilitates training of pharmacy students from the UAE colleges and in-house continuing education programmes for its pharmacists.” The department also responds and communicates to the community at large through its 'Ask Your Pharmacist Service', he added.

• UAE