The University of Hong Kong Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine (HKUMed) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with a British pharmaceutical firm, GlaxoSmithKline PLC (GSK), to launch the city’s first pharmacist vaccination training program , certifying over 30 pharmacists to administer vaccines in community pharmacies.
According to the program, participants must complete at least 4 hours of workshops and 10 hours of online self-study.
After passing clinical assessments and successfully administering vaccinations to five individuals under the supervision of experienced healthcare professionals, participants will earn a two-year certification.
It is reported that over 200 pharmacists have completed the basic training, with more than 30 certified to deliver vaccination services in community pharmacies, primarily for flu vaccines.
Notably, certified pharmacists must complete and document at least 5 vaccine administrations within two years, or lose their certification and have to attend retraining.
Professor Ian Wong Chi-Kei of HKU’s Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy highlighted the growing significance of pharmacists in global vaccination initiatives, pointing out that 36 nations have passed laws to support vaccination services in pharmacies.
Citing research that indicates pharmacist involvement can significantly enhance vaccination coverage, Wong predicts that this initiative could boost vaccination rates by nearly 60 percent, with community pharmacy services increasing coverage by 17 to 20 percent.
Additionally, Wong referenced positive outcomes from the United States, Northern Ireland, Poland, and Germany regarding their vaccination experiences with pharmacists, reporting satisfaction rates ranging from 88 to 95 percent.
Wong attributed the high satisfaction levels to the convenience of pharmacy locations, the accessibility of professional services, and effective communication, believing that pharmacists as trusted healthcare providers, can effectively address concerns and enhance vaccination willingness.
