Pharmacy students’ symposium 2007

Abstract

The pharmacy graduate is unique in being flexible in the interventions that are required across the different settings. Projects presented cover areas ranging from Pharmacy Administration to Information and Health Promotion, Pharmacotherapy, Pharmaceutical Care, Pharmaceutics and Medical Devices, Industrial Pharmacy and Regulatory Affairs. The education of the pharmacist has evolved to prepare the graduate to cope smoothly in the transition from the traditional role as drug dispenser to that of a direct patient-centred care. The validation of pharmacy services forms an integral part of research at our pharmacy department and has led to some of the results obtained by us being used for benchmarking of validation processes in the international scenario. Pharmacy students are exposed to a taste of this research through the running of projects in specified areas such as geriatrics. Leadership is essential for every profession. The setting up of a pharmaceutical association which deals only with professional matters and shies away from pure trade union dealings was a good practical exercise in training of leadership. The department prepares its graduates to be flexible and be in a position to adjust to tackle contemporary needs of our islands. Dissemination of information such as correct translation of pharmaceutical terms, publishing the findings of previously submitted projects, health education information in community pharmacies, awareness on use and misuse of alcohol, and first aid in sports were all subjects addressed in student projects. [Foreword by Professor Anthony Serracino-Inglott]