Abadir Nasr is a Canadian pharmacist whose goal is to make healthcare more accessible and personalized. Abadir has years of experience in clinical and community pharmacy settings and has witnessed the changes in the profession firsthand. Today, he has a particular interest in how digital health tools are transforming the role of pharmacists, helping patients manage medications and providing pharmacists with new means to deliver care.
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Q: What’s a major change you’ve noticed in Canada’s pharmacy industry?
ABADIR NASR: Without a doubt, there is an incredible rise in digital health. We’ve truly come a long way from the days of writing paper prescriptions and relying mainly on in-person consultations.
Today, our approach is much more tech-driven, with e-prescriptions and virtual consultations becoming the norm. These advancements have empowered us with digital tools that allow for real-time monitoring of patient progress, enhancing the overall experience for pharmacists and patients.
I find this shift fascinating as it provides us with more resources to assist individuals, especially those managing chronic illnesses or requiring medication management.
Q: How are these tools affecting your daily routine as a pharmacist?
ABADIR NASR: These new tools empower us to deliver care in innovative ways. They’re allowing us to expand our roles beyond just filling prescriptions. With digital adherence tracking, we can proactively follow up with patients who are missing doses. This early intervention helps us troubleshoot issues before they escalate, significantly improving patient outcomes.
Additionally, virtual appointments have been a game changer, especially for patients living far from pharmacies or those with mobility challenges. Being able to meet with them where they are has enriched our relationships and enhanced their care experience.
Q: What challenges are there in introducing digital tools to a pharmacy environment?
ABADIR NASR: Introducing digital tools to a pharmacy can come with some challenges, but I’m optimistic about the potential benefits.
One significant hurdle is integration; not all digital platforms communicate seamlessly, which can impede the creation of an efficient workflow. This process usually requires careful planning and time to ensure everything aligns perfectly. Additionally, pharmacists and patients face a learning curve when adapting to new technologies. It’s essential to provide thorough training to facilitate this transition.
Privacy is another critical consideration, especially given the sensitive nature of health information. We must ensure that our systems comply with Canadian privacy standards, which can be complex but are crucial for building patient trust.
Despite these challenges, when implemented correctly and with adequate training, the advantages of digital tools—like improved efficiency, better patient engagement, and streamlined operations—far outweigh the initial hurdles.
Q: Do you think pharmacy schools in Canada are keeping up with all these changes?
ABADIR NASR: I believe pharmacy schools in Canada are starting to adapt to the rapid changes we’re seeing in healthcare. There’s a notable emphasis on digital literacy, telehealth, and foundational AI skills in pharmacy programs. It’s encouraging to see new graduates entering the field equipped with more technical skills, which is fantastic for the profession.
However, I think we still face a challenge when it comes to translating these skills into real-world applications. There is an evident gap that needs addressing as we navigate this evolving environment. Ongoing professional development will be crucial for all of us, regardless of how long we’ve been in practice.
By continuously updating our skills and knowledge, we can ensure that we’re not just keeping pace but truly excelling in our roles.
Q: Where do you see the greatest opportunities for pharmacists in the future?
ABADIR NASR: I feel pharmacists are uniquely positioned to lead the charge in personalized care. With real-time access to patients’ health data, we can collaborate closer with our patients to tailor their treatment plans. This capability enables us to monitor their progress daily, ensuring that the care provided aligns with their individual needs.
Proactive care, especially for those with chronic illnesses, can truly be life-changing. By partnering with patients and utilizing their health data effectively, we can make a significant impact on their health outcomes. The evolution of healthcare technology offers unprecedented opportunities for pharmacists to step into this critical role, bridging the gap between patients and healthcare providers.
It’s an exciting time to be in this field, and I’m eager to see how we can leverage these opportunities to benefit our patients.