Gipuzkoa commemorates World Pharmacists Day on September 25, highlighting the vital work of its 1,237 pharmacists under the slogan “Think about health, think about pharmacy.” The province stands out not only for the number of professionals in the sector but also for its remarkable percentage of women, who represent 81.3% of registered pharmacists, a figure that exceeds the national average of 71.9%. This translates to a significant presence of 166 pharmacists for every 100,000 inhabitants, reflecting a commitment to public health.
With 288 pharmacies, 85 of which are located in San Sebastián, Gipuzkoa has one pharmacy for every 2,534 residents. The Official College of Pharmacists of Gipuzkoa (COFG) has highlighted the crucial role of community pharmacies, while also acknowledging that these professionals are essential in hospitals, health centers, and the pharmaceutical industry.
Miguel Ángel Gastelurrutia, president of COFG, emphasized the need to advance the clinical activities of pharmacists to improve adherence to medical treatments and, consequently, patients’ health. However, he also expressed concern about the shortage of professionals and the challenges related to working hours and job satisfaction in the sector.
Recently, COFG was awarded in the VIII Edition of the OAT Adherence Awards 2024 in the category of “Healthcare Organizations.” This recognition highlights their efforts in promoting therapeutic adherence through 14 pharmacies in the region, demonstrating that, with the right support, pharmacies can play an essential role in managing patient treatment, while also laying the groundwork for a more effective integration of community pharmacies into the Basque healthcare system, especially in the management of chronic diseases.
Source: MiMub in Spanish
