Μη συνταγογραφούμενα φάρμακα (ΜΗΣΥΦΑ), αυτοφροντίδα, αυτοθεραπεία και η συμβολή του φαρμακοποιού (μέσω της παροχής φαρμακευτικής φροντίδας)
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Keywords
Φαρμακοποιοί ; ΜΗΣΥΦΑ ; Αυτοθεραπεία ; Αυτοφροντίδα ; Πρωτοβάθμια φροντίδα υγείας ; Φαρμακευτική φροντίδαAbstract
This diploma thesis develops issues related to the health services provided by a pharmacy, as well as the role of the pharmacist as a health scientist in proper medical advice to patients, in a way that ensures public health and safety. First, the issue of Over-the-Counter drugs (OTC) is addressed, in terms of their therapeutic value and their safety. The diploma thesis describes the institutional and legal framework for their disposal by the pharmacy, as well as the prospect of selling them through other channels, such as supermarkets. It analyzes the catalytic role of the pharmacist in informing the public about the use of these drugs, while emphasis is placed on risks related to their inappropriate use.
In addition, it develops the concepts of self-care and self-medication, which are related to the treatment of a common health problem, using drugs, that have been designed to be used by a patient, without simultaneous medical follow-up. Pharmacists’ role is particularly critical in this case, since health and safety issues are raised. Moreover, there is a discussion on pharmaceutical care, that is to say the provision of primary health care by the pharmacist, which is focused solely on the patient and on solving the specific problem he is facing. The causes that lead a patient to self-medication are analyzed alongside the pharmacists’ contribution, which is particularly critical in order to solve the patient's problem in the best possible way without putting his health and life in danger. Along with all this, an approach is also attempted in the way in which the economic crisis of recent years has influenced the habits of the population in what concerns the purchase of medicines and medical services. In this way, an attempt is made to understand the general behavior of patients as far as health issues under the prevailing economic conditions are concerned, as well as the role the pharmacist has to play in order to ensure that the public is better informed about drugs and health. Finally, the results of a survey, carried out by means of questionnaires, are quoted. This survey shows that people are now using the internet in their everyday life for a variety of purchases, including pharmaceuticals. Despite legal constraints on the distribution of medicines and parapharmaceuticals via the Internet, consumers have a positive attitude towards this prospect. There is, however, the question of the reliability of the products offered by online stores, for which companies promoting their products through the internet must take care of.