Instructions on how to Administer the Flu Vaccine
Sterile compounding practice and regulations
The blistering machine
Sterile compounding practice for preparing the IV fluids
Discussing the difference between traditional and specialty pharmacy
On Friday, 8th of December 2023, first-year pharmacy students from Gulf Medical University, accompanied by Dr. Muhammed Abdullatif, Director Student Happiness Center, and Dr. Syed Wasif, Chair, Department of Pharmacy Practice, embarked on a field trip to Al-Thiqa pharmacy to explore new practices implemented in the community pharmacy setting.
During the visit, the Al-Thiqa pharmacy team provided valuable insights into the role of specialty pharmacy compared to traditional community pharmacy practices. The students were presented with a comprehensive understanding of how to assess patients’ eligibility for flu vaccination through in-depth case studies covering aspects such as comorbidities, polypharmacy, financial considerations, insurance, and more.
The Al-Thiqa team also shed light on the vaccination protocol, detailing the regulations associated with pharmacy-led vaccinations, including dealing with the Abu Dhabi Health Information Exchange platform “Malaffi”. Furthermore, the students had the opportunity to delve into the sterile compounding practices delivered by pharmacists. The team showcased the impact of sterile compounding on society, emphasizing how it contributes to improving patients’ health support in a cost-effective manner.
Avelyne Joy, commented “Our first-year pharmacy batch is blessed to learn from the experienced healthcare professionals of the Al-Thiqa Pharmacy Chain in Abu Dhabi. We had the pleasure of acquiring knowledge about the vaccination, sterile compounding, home infusion, and specialty services that they provide”.
Hoda Hagag, commented “I was thrilled to embark on a very exciting and academic trip to Al-Thiqa Pharmacy. Our visit to the IV room, where pharmacists ensure medication safety by sterilizing themselves and using interlocking doors, underscored the importance of patient well-being and safety”
Sara Salem, commented “Visiting Al-Thiqa pharmacy was a very informative and useful experience. We were taught by well-trained pharmacists how specialty pharmacies can resolve many issues compared to traditional community pharmacies, such as providing supported medication for non-medically insured patients”.