On 22 Jul 2023 Saturday, iRx Clinical Pharmacy and Pancare Medical Clinic, in collaboration with Braddell Heights Zone B RC, we had our first door-to-door medication brown bagging event.
First and foremost, my sincerest gratitude towards the volunteers today. We had a total of 5 pharmacists and 3 Republic Polytechnic student volunteers who sacrificed their lovely Saturday afternoon and went knocking on doors in Block 419 at Serangoon Central. While we do not have many who let us in to reconcile their medications, we were glad that we could spread the word about how pharmacists can help, what Healthier SG is about and the benefits to the residents when they sign up. Many elderly residents are still unaware of the healthcare benefits to them.
In particular, we encountered an elderly man close to his 80s, with severe osteoarthritis pain who takes the bus to Ang Mo Kio Polyclinic for chronic follow up. Given the pain in his knees, it is difficult for him to commute such long distances. He was not aware that with the new Healthier SG initiative and leveraging on his Pioneer Generation benefits, he can also enjoy affordable healthcare follow up at his GP near home. This would relieve him of the commute and also increases the flexibility in timing in going to the GP.
It was also a learning experience for the team on the best format of the event, and the best way to reach out to more residents. And it was a wonderful experience to work alongside passionate pharmacists!
Thank you once again Ms Valerie Ng, Mr Chia Ming Tjong, Ms Yee Yin, Ms Winnie Wong for volunteering with us! Thank you, our adorable RP students, and also our clinic assistants Yin Hwee and Mary!
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