[Preparation of a programme entitled "The role of pharmacists in providing support for nicotine replacement therapy in public pharmacies]

Abstract

In the last years, the role of pharmacist in the community has changed considerably. Pharmacists became active patients' consultants and health confidants. Smoking is one of the most important risk factors for burden of disease and a major contributor to the death of millions of people each year. Pharmacists as competent health care providers should fight against tobacco addiction so their participation in the care of patients who wish to give up smoking would be beneficial. The Chair of Toxicology of the Jagiellonian University established and launched an outpatient smoking-cessation programme based on the public pharmacies. The role of pharmacists in health promotion programmes, including the fight against tobacco addiction in Poland and worldwide was described. We also defined the range of activities which can be undertaken by the pharmacists in order to effectively support patients who want to stop smoking. In Methods we presented the programme preparation phases and the contents of posters and leaflets which promote smoking cessation. We also watched the initial efforts and engagement of pharmacists implementing this programme in public pharmacies.