Caribbean pharmacists meet here

The third annual mid term meeting of the Caribbean Association of Pharmacists (CAP) was held here last week under the theme “Fostering access and adherence to HIV/AIDS therapy.”
CAP, which has been in existence for over twenty years holds annual meetings.{{more}}
The meeting’s launch at the Methodist Church Hall heard an address by Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, who challenged the pharmacists based on the life of George A McIntosh, himself a pharmacist by profession. McIntosh was recognized for his service to humanity and thus a trophy was awarded to the McIntosh family, which was received by local member Alban Bowman on behalf of the family.
Speaking at the meeting was Dr. Archie Rodney, a Vincentian based in Tampa, Florida who gave a keynote address on the role of the pharmacist in the 21st century.
Other speakers included Tyrone Jack president of the local Association, Ellen Campbell Grizzle president of CAP, while Dr. St. Clair Thomas, filling in for the absent Minister of Health, gave the welcome address.
Participants came from Jamaica, Bahamas, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, Anguilla and Guyana.
The sessions over the two days looked at topics including the impact pharmacists could have on the HIV epidemic and to share current strategies in the management of HIV. They also looked at managing the depression associated with HIV/AIDS and the pharmacists’ role in formulating and implementing HIV Aids policies.
The meeting allowed for the free exchange of best practices among participants, all of whom received a credit certificate which is recognized for Fostering Access and Adherence to HIVAIDS therapy.
It was stressed that there is a need for members to become more computer literate to better access and maintain databases on patients and monitor drug interactions and patient compliance with medication. The meeting ended last weekend.