LETTER: October is American Pharmacists Month

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To the editor:

For many South Dakotans, October brings about a lot of excitement. Hunters look forward to the opening of pheasant season on the third Saturday of the month. Children look forward to Halloween, during which — observation suggests — they compete to see who can get the most cavities, thereby causing their parents to weep over the consequent dental bills.

But did you know October is also American Pharmacists Month? It is a time to recognize and appreciate all of the great things pharmacists can do. You may be surprised to know that pharmacists can do much more than simply dispense medications.

- Over 150,000 U.S. pharmacists are trained to give immunizations for flu, pneumonia, shingles and more.

- Pharmacists can conduct blood pressure, blood glucose, cholesterol and osteoporosis screenings.

- Pharmacists can review the different medications that have been prescribed to a patient and ensure the best possible outcomes — and the fewest possible side effects — are being achieved.

- Pharmacists can answer many of your questions regarding over-the-counter medications.

Pharmacists are one of the most accessible and versatile members of the health care team. Ask your pharmacist about these services today.

From the SDSU chapter of the APA Academy of Student Pharmacists, thank you for reading.

Joe Berendse is a student pharmacist from Brookings.

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