Pharmacists as Key Contributors to Preventive Medicine: A Study On Immunization, Screening, And Medication Adherence in Public Health.

Original Article

Abstract

Background: Preventive medicine plays a key role in improving population health and reducing healthcare costs. Pharmacists, despite being highly accessible to the public, are often underutilized in preventive care programs. In resource-limited settings, they can support immunization, disease screening, and medication adherence, thereby strengthening health outcomes.

Objectives: This study aimed to explore the role of pharmacists in preventive healthcare—particularly in immunization, screening, and medication adherence—and to identify barriers to their inclusion in national health programs.

Methodology: this Quasi-experimental pre–post interventional Study was used. Data were collected through surveys and interviews with pharmacists working in community and hospital settings. Their involvement in immunization services, chronic disease screening, and adherence counseling was assessed. Statistical analysis included mean age, standard deviation, and p-values to determine the significance of observed associations.

Results: A total of 132 pharmacists participated, with a mean age of 37.5 ± 8.3 years. About 45% were actively involved in immunization services, while 62% conducted screenings for conditions such as diabetes and hypertension. A significant association was found between pharmacist-led screening and early disease detection (p = 0.03). Medication adherence counseling improved treatment compliance by 40% (p = 0.02), highlighting the effectiveness of pharmacist-led interventions.

Conclusion: Pharmacists have a meaningful role in preventive healthcare through immunization, screening, and adherence support. However, structural and policy barriers limit their integration into formal healthcare systems. Expanding their role could enhance early disease detection, improve adherence, and reduce healthcare costs. Policy reforms are needed to better utilize pharmacists in preventive care programs.