Increasing access to better health,

AS WE reflect on the theme for Pharmaceutical Society of Jamaica (PSJ) 2018 Pharmacy Week : ‘Access to Pharmacists is Access to Health’ we recognise the efforts our pharmacists have undertaken in working towards a healthier Jamaica. I applaud the PSJ and its membership, who continually ensure their clients are getting the best possible medication counselling, pharmaceutical care, medication therapy management support and outreach services within the communities they serve. The pharmacistclient relationships that have been built over centuries speak volumes to the generosity that is embedded in the very fibre of their professional practice, which seeks to increase access to better health, wellness and public health information.

As the profession of pharmacy

once again is highlighted in Pharmacy Week, the commitment by pharmacists to embrace the ever-changing landscape of their profession through informatics, newer roles such as clinical pharmacy, providing immunisation services, the demands of an expanding public health patient population and an ageing society, we commend you on a job well done. As you celebrate this Pharmacy Week 2018, engage your clients through increased accessibility and continue to make your profession one of the most trusted and respected in the world. I laud the Pharmaceutical Society of Jamaica for its hard work and dedication over the past 90 years and wish you all the best for this Pharmacy Week of activities.

The University of the West Indies, Mona, is now offering the first Entry Level Doctor of Pharmacy Programme available in the Caribbean region and will continue to work in collaboration with the PSJ in training pharmacists, who will continue to maintain high standards of professionalism and ethical behaviours in serving Jamaica and the wider Caribbean region.

DR CAMEIL WILSON-CLARKE Programme Director & Lecturer, Doctor of Pharmacy Pharmacology and Pharmacy Section, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, Mona.