Do-everything-friendly-day
On Feb. 17, we in the Netherlands celebrate "Do Kindness Day," a day when we put extra emphasis on kindness and understanding, especially in situations where frustrations can run high.
One place where this is common is at the pharmacy counter. On this "Act Kindly Day," we want to call on everyone to be empathetic and understanding at our pharmacy counter.
Seven in ten pharmacy teams experience frustration and/or misunderstanding from patients on a daily basis. In practice, we see that misunderstanding about health insurers' medication policies and large drug shortages is unfairly taken out on pharmacists and pharmacy assistants.' Just google this topic and you will see a bevy of articles and publications on the subject.
It is understandable to be annoyed when you hear that the prescribed drug is not available. What is important to realize is that pharmacy workers themselves have no control over drug availability. Drug shortages are a complex problem that is often beyond the pharmacy's control, think production issues, health insurance policy, global demand and logistical challenges.
By showing kindness, we are contributing to a more positive and constructive approach to this complex problem. On Feb. 17, let's take extra time to reflect on the challenges facing pharmacy and strive together to be kinder and more understanding.