By Ms. Cinny Lim & Mr. Myat Thu Kyaw, Co-Chairpersons of Pharmacy Week 2023
In a vibrant display of unity, public education, and wellness, PSS Pharmacy Week 23 team has once again orchestrated a remarkable Pharmacy Week event. This year's carnival, held on the 17th of September 2023 at the Fernvale Community Club, transcended expectations, bringing together the pharmacy family, health enthusiasts, community stakeholders, and the public under one roof to celebrate health and wellbeing. With the theme “Take Charge Towards a Healthier SG,” Pharmacy Week 2023. The event was attended by our Guest of Honour Mr. Gan Thiam Poh, Grassroots Advisor to Ang Mo Kio GRC Grassroots Organisations.
The carnival sought to equip the public with essential self-knowledge about their general health and well-being. Through engaging sessions, participants were empowered to make informed decisions about their health, explore the judicious use of medicines, and embrace health-related practices that promote overall wellness. The Health Carnival welcomed more than 700 participants, while our total online activities reached out to more than 72,000!
Carnival of Health & Knowledge
A myriad of engaging activities and educational booths transformed the venue into a haven of health-related insights and engagement activities. Five game booths covering crucial topics such as vaccination, drug disposal, vitamin supplements, and drug information facilitated interactive learning.
Additionally, captivating activities like capsule-making and carnival coloring stations added an element of creativity and fun to the experience. One participant praised the volunteers and working crew for their enthusiasm, friendliness, and patience in explaining the booth's content and answering their queries. One resident shared through the carnival feedback form that they learned useful information and health tips that will enable healthy living and taking ownership of their health.
Empowering Talks and Vital Measurements
Adding depth to the carnival experience were three insightful talkshow sessions on smoking cessation, mental health, and bone health and fall risk. These talks, delivered by experts, not only educated but inspired attendees to make positive lifestyle changes. Furthermore, the event featured blood pressure monitoring booths and blood sugar measurement booths, providing attendees with an opportunity to monitor their vital signs and take immediate action if needed.
Digital Engagement: "Know Your Body: Understanding the Numbers"
In the digital realm, Pharmacy Week 2023 made a significant impact through three pre-carnival videos titled “Know Your Body: Understanding the Numbers” and “self-care for better mental health”. The videos were followed up by post-video quiz that boosted online engagement. These videos, with a remarkable reach of 17,500 viewers and 345 engagements on various social media platforms, disseminated healthful knowledge to a broader audience. These initiatives attracted praise from the participants in highlighting the importance of pharmacists in enabling an healthier nation.
A Heartfelt Gratitude
In closing, the resounding success of PSS Pharmacy Week 2023 wouldn’t have been possible without the unwavering support of the community, volunteers, PSS members, and sponsors. The event stands as a testament to the power of collective effort and the boundless possibilities that arise when a community unites for a common cause: the health and well-being of all.
As we bid adieu to another enriching Pharmacy Week, let's carry forward the spirit of empowerment, knowledge, and giving into our lives. Together, we can continue to make strides towards a healthier, happier, and more informed Singapore.
