Pharmacy professionals are an important source of information and education for patients on a wide variety of drugs, health products, medical devices and more. As Ontario moves forward with widespread administration of the COVID-19 vaccines in order to bring about an end to this pandemic, there is an opportunity for pharmacy professionals to be a trusted source of information for their patients and communities.
It is important that pharmacists and pharmacy technicians educate themselves about the COVID-19 vaccines so that they are prepared to address questions and concerns from patients.
There are a number of resources that can help guide conversations with patients and provide supportive evidence of the safety and importance of these vaccines.
PrOTCT Plan for the COVID-19 Vaccine Discussion. This framework from the Centre for Effective Practice helps healthcare professionals approach conversations in a thoughtful manner to build trust while sharing important information.
COVID-19 Vaccines information hub. The Centre for Effective Practice has a COVID-19 vaccines information resource that addresses many questions regarding the vaccines. The Ensuring Patient Confidence in Vaccines section lists common questions from patients and then provides a list of key messages to use in responding.
COVID-19 Vaccine Questions and Answers for Health Care Workers on Vaccine Safety. The CANVax CONSIDER Working Group has provided comprehensive answers to questions healthcare workers may have about the safety of the vaccines.
Pharmacy5in5. Pharmacy5in5, at the University of Waterloo, offers multiple resources on COVID-19 vaccines, including infographics for pharmacy professionals and patients, as well as a COVID-19 vaccines quiz.
Government of Ontario. The fact sheet What you should know about the COVID-19 vaccines provides simple questions and answers to common questions from the public about COVID-19 vaccines.
19 to Zero. A coalition of experts working to understand, engage with, and ultimately shift public perceptions around COVID-19 behaviours and vaccination. Provides links to tools and resources for healthcare professionals.
The College continues to update our guidance and resources for pharmacy professionals related to COVID-19, including regarding vaccinations, testing, patient care, training, health and safety pharmacy operations.
Please continue to check back on the COVID-19: Information for Pharmacy Professionals page regularly for updates and ensure you read the biweekly e-Connect email newsletter.
Reproduced with permission of University of Waterloo School of Pharmacy ©Pharmacy5in5.com.
Reproduced with permission of University of Waterloo School of Pharmacy ©Pharmacy5in5.com.