As Ghana prepares for the Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana (PSGH) Annual General Meeting (AGM) in September 2025, a spotlight shines on the crucial role of pharmacists in primary healthcare. The AGM, centered around the theme “Strengthening pharmacy for primary healthcare,” arrives at a pivotal time. With the government’s ambitious push for free primary healthcare, the PSGH is determined to ensure that pharmacists are not only integrated but also empowered to deliver accessible, affordable, and high-quality services. Rev. Dr. Dennis Sena Awitty, the Executive Secretary of the PSGH, has emphasized the urgency of strengthening community pharmacies, particularly in light of the increasing prevalence of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) across the nation. The discussions and initiatives planned for the AGM seek to redefine and elevate the role of pharmacy in achieving Universal Health Coverage by 2030, according to official PSGH announcements.

For many Ghanaians, a pharmacist represents the first point of contact with the healthcare system. The PSGH recognizes that this accessibility presents a unique opportunity to optimize the pharmacist’s role in primary care. As the government’s free primary healthcare policy takes shape, the effective integration of pharmacists becomes even more crucial. The aim is to leverage their expertise and presence to ensure that healthcare services are not only affordable but also readily available to all citizens. The society underscores the importance of their role in the healthcare ecosystem.

The rising tide of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) in Ghana demands innovative solutions, and the PSGH believes that community pharmacies can be at the forefront of early detection and management. Conditions like diabetes and hypertension often benefit from early intervention, and pharmacists, with their accessibility and knowledge, are ideally positioned to conduct basic health screenings and provide crucial advice. The PSGH is actively exploring ways to equip pharmacists with the necessary skills to identify potential cases and make timely referrals, potentially alleviating pressure on hospitals and clinics.

“How then can we position the nearest health care provider, who may be the pharmacy close to you, to help in screening?” Rev. Dr. Awitty posed this question, highlighting the society’s commitment to bolstering pharmacists’ capabilities in preventative care. The PSGH is considering a comprehensive skills assessment and retooling program to elevate pharmacists to an official first point of contact within the healthcare system. The goal is to ensure they can effectively contribute to early detection and management of common health issues.

The AGM 2025, scheduled from Monday, September 22, to Saturday, September 27, at the University of Cape Coast campus, will serve as a platform for these crucial discussions and strategic planning. Key events include workshops for students and pharmacists, a “Pharma dialogue,” the election of new leaders, the celebration of World Pharmacists Day, and a career fair. The theme, “Strengthening pharmacy for primary healthcare,” will permeate all activities, underscoring the society’s commitment to this vital area.

With over 5,000 community pharmacies spread across Ghana, the PSGH sees a significant opportunity to contribute to the government’s health programs and the broader goal of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by 2030. These pharmacies, often located in underserved communities, can serve as vital access points for essential medicines, health information, and basic screenings. By strategically leveraging this network, the PSGH aims to bridge gaps in healthcare access and improve health outcomes for all Ghanaians.

“We have a goal of achieving Universal Health Coverage by 2030, and to work towards that, we think the pharmacists and the community pharmacies would be very important in achieving that goal,” Dr. Awitty stated, emphasizing the pivotal role of pharmacists in reaching this ambitious target.

Mr. Offei noted the evolving nature of the pharmacy profession, emphasizing that it has become increasingly people-centered. The PSGH’s initiatives aim to engage the public, seeking their input to shape healthcare decisions and ensure that services are tailored to meet the specific needs of communities. By fostering open communication and collaboration, the PSGH aims to create a healthcare system that is truly responsive to the needs of the people it serves.

The Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana’s focus on strengthening pharmacy’s role in primary healthcare is poised to reshape the healthcare landscape in Ghana. By empowering pharmacists, leveraging the network of community pharmacies, and fostering collaboration with the government and the public, the PSGH is taking significant steps towards achieving Universal Health Coverage by 2030. The AGM in September 2025 represents a crucial opportunity for strategic planning and collective action, ultimately aimed at delivering quality, affordable, and accessible healthcare to all Ghanaians. For more information and to register for the event, visit psghoguaa25.com.