[e-drug] Pharmacists in Africa (3)

["Robert Nyarango" <rnyarango@gerties.org>]

E-DRUG: Pharmacists in Africa (3)
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I think Rollo Manning's definition of the professional role of a
pharmacist's is very narrow. It is more than reading a prescription and
fixing a level. In Kenya for example pharmacists have become an integral
part of healthcare provision both in the provision of the pharmaceutical
and clinical pharmacy services. 

The pharmacist's role in the developed countries is widely different
than that of one in the developing countries. There are disparities in
technology and legislative frameworks that govern pharmacy practice and
differences in the scope of services given. The cope for hospital
practice in Australia and New Zealand for example may be quite advanced
compared to the developing countries.

But to go back to Billy's point, it is not a question of whether the
brand drain of pharmacist to the developed countries will take place.
This has already started and pharmacists especially in Africa and Asia
will find a way fitting in. You may not stop movement in the liberalized
labour market. 

The question is, what is the third world especially Africa planning to
do at the policy and training level? What is the strategy to retain
pharmacists but at the same time produce international recognizable
pharmacists? 
 
Robert Nyarango
Chief Pharmacist 
Gertrude's Children's Hospital, Nairobi
*+254 (0)20 376 34 74/5/6 Ext. 238
    +254 (0)722 898948/ (0) 733 639444/ (0)722325211
*+254 (0)20 376 32 81
* rnyarango@gerties.org <rnyarango@gerties.org%20>