Association of Registered Pharmacist, Assam (ARPA) step up to serve in COVID-19 outbreak and pledge to contribute in tackling the COVID-19. ARPA reoprted that there a number of pharmacy professionals who are not directly related to community healthcare such as teachers, researchers, Community & Clinical Pharmacist etc. who can serve as emergency manpower in dealing with this situation. Around 2000-3000 phannacist (not serving as Govt, pharmacists) are present in the state of Assam and we strongly believe that this manpower can be of tremendous help in this situation.
ARPA said, "Pharmacist can be utilize in counseling and disburse important information to the general public for the effective tackling of COVID-19 situation and prevent India & Assam from entering Stage-3 of this global pandemic."
Pharmacist engaged as teachers, researchers in Govt. / Private institutions, community can work with close proximity of healthcare professionals to ensure smooth functioning of quarantine facilities.
Pharmacist with valid Pharmacist Registration may be allowed to set up temporary medicine dispensing units under Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan-Aushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP Scheme) to provide primary care, dispense essential medicines and sanitization equipments in rural/remote areas where pharmacy & healthcare facilities are scarce.
Any other requirement of qualified professionals in this emergency scenario of COVID-19 can be fulfilled by the Assam pharmacist community efficiently.
Matiur Rehman Joint secretary of ARPA said to Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma Minister of Health and Family welfare Assam, "with the entire country facing the global pandemic of COVID-19, we congratulate and thank the Assam Government for showing remarkable preparedness and diligent planning by initiating and collaborating with all the healthcare professionals and bringing them under a single roof for tackling any emergency situation, which is really praise worthy. However, we would like to bring to you notice that there a number of pharmacy professionals who are not directly related to community healthcare; e.g. teachers, researchers, Community & Clinical Pharmacist etc., who can serve as emergency manpower in dealing with this situation"
