Future pharmacists outreach day was conducted as one of the courses assessment for final year students, Faculty of Pharmacy which aims to sharpen communication skills while delivering health information to the public. These future pharmacists were given the flexibility and opportunity to convey various health-related topics to increase the awareness of the public. Among the health-related topics covered were management of hypertension, dyslipidaemia, diabetes mellitus, gout, anaemia, weight , smoking cessation and skin disorders.
The spectators were from various backgrounds such as students, lecturers and other university staff. A number of faculty members expressed their support by participating in this event. Many interactive games and activities were organised and these successfully attracted the spectators from various age groups . In addition to that, a few basic health screenings were also offered such as fat analysis, blood pressure measurement, glucose and total cholesterol screening.
At the end of the event, students reflected on their experiences and were content and joyful that they were able to share their knowledge with the public. From a spectator’s point of view, it could be seen that students gained a lot from this event in terms of improving communication skills and opportunities to disseminate accurate health information. For instance, at the smoking cessation booth, upon viewing and participating at the booth, some of the spectators disclosed that they need to start making efforts to quit smoking.
This event has successfully achieved its objectives. It is also hoped that the students will appreciate this valuable experience and put to use their sharpened skills in future. On the other hand, it was also hoped that the spectators were able to grasp the information disseminated to them and that the event created an awareness on preventive healthcare. With the success of this event, and to step up, this event may be conducted outside UiTM Puncak Alam, to reach a wider group of public in future.
