Pharmacists: An untapped pillar of Bangladesh’s healthcare system

Every year, World Pharmacists' Day on 26 September reminds us of the vital role pharmacists play in global healthcare. While Bangladesh has achieved remarkable success in pharmaceutical manufacturing—the broader role of pharmacists in direct patient care remains underutilised.

In developed countries, pharmacists are recognised as frontline healthcare providers. They go beyond dispensing medicines, contributing to clinical decision-making, patient counselling, vaccination, chronic disease management, and monitoring of drug safety.

Increasingly, pharmacists are central to preventive care and digital health services. Bangladesh, however, continues to view pharmacists mainly through the lens of industry. This limited perspective prevents their integration into hospitals and communities where their expertise could significantly improve patient outcomes. The country's growing burden of non-communicable diseases, rising antimicrobial resistance, and gaps in rural

Healthcare requires stronger pharmacist involvement. To bridge this gap, the government must act. First, policy reform should recognise pharmacists as essential healthcare professionals. Second, pharmacy education must align with global standards, emphasising clinical and patient-centred practice. Third, hospital and community healthcare systems should formally integrate pharmacists into their services.

Finally, investment in research, biotechnology, biosimilars, and digital health innovation will allow pharmacists to contribute more effectively to the nation's healthcare goals. The benefits to patients would be direct and profound:safer and more effective treatments, reduced misuse of medicines, lower healthcare costs, and stronger public trust in the healthcare system.

Bangladesh's pharmaceutical industry has earned international recognition. The next step is empowering pharmacists to extend their expertise beyond production lines—into the heart of patient care.

The writer is an Executive Officer, Quality Control Department at Incepta Pharmaceuticals Limited.
Email: [email protected]