Using pharmacy for good: My journey in community outreach
Myriam Shaw Ojeda, PharmD, is an assistant professor of pharmacy practice and science at The Ohio State University College of Pharmacy and Ohio State University Extension.
Hushed discussions in the medication aisles, a conversation at a hospital bedside or a meaningful counseling session at a medical office – most of us are familiar with these scenes. But how often do we pause to consider the impact that we pharmacists make in these moments?
Pharmacists have a unique role to play beyond traditional settings. Our education and patient knowledge allow us to offer individualized care that few other providers can.
My own journey into community outreach began to take shape during the COVID-19 pandemic. As a Fellow of Policy and Innovation at the Ohio Pharmacists Association (OPA), I was quickly immersed in a world where “vaccines” became a daily mantra. As one of the Ohio Governor’s Office liaisons for pharmacist-led vaccination efforts, I worked with community pharmacists to adjust to their new and crucial roles.
While at OPA, I also connected with the Ohio Domestic Violence Network (ODVN). The organization reached out because of a disturbingly high rate of severe injuries suspected from domestic violence issues. ODVN was eager to get resources out to vulnerable patients, but most community services were limited due to COVID-19 precautions.
Working with about 10 pharmacies in target locations, we supplied flyers and information packets to be distributed. The pharmacists proved to be a great solution to the challenge posed by the COVID-19 precautions, as they remained accessible to our most vulnerable patients. I was impressed by how pharmacists leveraged their patients’ trust beyond medications, readily distributing the ODVN materials and understanding their role in mitigating yet another public health issue.
As a result of pharmacists providing integral community health service, I have witnessed the emergence of partners outside of traditional pharmacy collaborators.
Pharmacists continue to respond creatively to community needs, whether by connecting patients to vital resources or addressing broader social determinants of health. These are not just isolated acts of care; they are a strategic part of improving larger community health.
We are now in an era where communities are increasingly aware of the value pharmacists bring. The question is: How do we leverage this awareness to make a lasting impact?
In 2021, the Ohio Department of Health released a grant opportunity on smoking cessation education targeting pharmacists and other health care providers. During the grant application process, I learned about the rates of tobacco use in Ohio and the need for patient support from health care providers. The grant allowed me to collaboratively create a continuing education program for pharmacists to support patients’ tobacco cessation.
Starting partnerships to tackle widespread challenges like these can be difficult, but my advice is to listen to the voices in your community. I have encountered such voices at library meetings, council sessions and volunteer events. Individuals at the local level have a pulse on their community’s needs. By surrounding yourself with a diverse “board of directors,” including mentors, colleagues and students, you can keep your work grounded in the realities of the communities you serve and find allies to implement your public health strategies.
Looking around, it can seem like pharmacy infrastructure is crumbling. I encourage you to look for gaps in care and consider how you can partner with local leadership to address these issues. Our local leadership allies with the nicotine cessation program make it possible for community members to learn about the resources available to them and take the first step. Perhaps your own public health outreach efforts can provide an avenue broaden care in a meaningful way for your patients.
Do not let the challenges of our health care system discourage you. Instead, look for ways to use your expertise and invest in your community, and you will see your efforts bear fruit in meaningful and tangible ways.
As I reflect on my journey, I am grateful that my mentors pushed me beyond my comfort zone. What started as a daunting task during my fellowship has blossomed into a fulfilling career in public service and community outreach. I encourage you to be courageous, take that first step and see where it leads you.