INT1 – How to make hospital pharmacy and hospital pharmacists activities more visible

Link to EAHP Statements
Section 1 – Introductory Statements and Governance: Statements – 1.1, 1.5, 1.7

Abstract
Background: Hospital pharmacists are vital to ensuring medication safety, optimizing therapeutic outcomes, and supporting cost-effective healthcare delivery. Yet, their contributions often go unrecognized by patients and healthcare professionals. Raising the visibility of hospital pharmacy is essential to enhance recognition, improve patient outcomes, and foster interdisciplinary collaboration.
Aim: This session equips hospital pharmacists with practical strategies to elevate the visibility of their services within healthcare settings and the broader community. Participants will learn to effectively communicate their impact on patient care and healthcare efficiency using innovative advertising tactics, media engagement, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Content:
This interactive session will address:

1. Strategic Communication and Media Engagement:
   • Designing patient-centred video campaigns and personalized communication to highlight pharmacists’ roles.
   • Leveraging social media for public education through Q&A sessions and educational posts.
2. Public Health Campaigns and Community Engagement:
   • Collaborating with public health organizations on medication safety and chronic disease management campaigns.
   • Hosting community health events to showcase hospital pharmacy services.
3. In-Hospital Awareness and Collaboration:
   • Implementing campaigns using posters, digital displays, and interdisciplinary efforts to inform patients and staff.
   • Using case studies, testimonials, and media features to spotlight pharmacists’ contributions.
4. Innovative Outreach and Education:
   • Organizing workshops, seminars, and school outreach to educate the public and future professionals.
   • Incorporating virtual reality experiences and open days to showcase pharmacists’ roles.

Learning objectives
tbc

Educational need addressed
This session addresses the need to enhance the visibility and recognition of hospital pharmacists, whose vital contributions often go unnoticed. It equips participants with communication and outreach skills to showcase their impact on patient care, medication safety, and healthcare efficiency. Through innovative strategies, it aims to foster greater appreciation for the role of the hospital pharmacist.

Keywords
Education, Communication, Medication Safety, Inter-professional, Healthcare Reform.