The Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria in Imo State has raised concerns about the risks associated with the open trading of medicines in common markets. They emphasized that this practice could lead to drug resistance, increased disease burden, and organ damage.
At a recent summit held in Owerri, a communiqué was issued, urging the state government to address these dangers. The society also expressed gratitude to the government for the progress on the Faculty of Pharmacy at Imo State University and requested the establishment of similar faculties at other universities in the state.
Additionally, the communiqué highlighted the importance of community pharmacies as healthcare institutions and called for government support to meet the health needs of Imo citizens. They also requested tax waivers or reductions to help pharmacies contribute effectively to sustainable development goals and universal health coverage.
The summit further recommended the appointment of more pharmacists to healthcare facilities across the state, emphasizing their significant impact. They also called for collaboration between security agencies and pharmacists to address emergency health situations promptly.
Concerns were also raised about fuel scarcity and high petrol costs, which were identified as national issues. The summit appealed to the governor to assist in alleviating these challenges. Furthermore, they requested electricity tariff waivers for community pharmacies and health facilities to reduce treatment costs and enhance healthcare services.