The Critical Role of Pharmacists in Healthcare

January 12 is Pharmacist Day and Medline Canada is marking this observance by recognizing the critical role pharmacists play in the healthcare industry.

In this Ask the Expert, we spoke with Nassrin Majbour, Marketing Manager for Acute Care at Medline Canada, Corporation, who reflects on how her pharmaceutical industry experience has influenced her approach to connecting Medline’s customers with the right healthcare solutions to deliver the best possible patient care.

Q: Can you tell us about your role and previous career experience?

I am currently the Marketing Manager for Acute Care at Medline. My experience spans both acute and post-acute care settings at Medline. Before this, I worked as a pharmacist and gained extensive experience in the pharmaceutical industry. In addition to my professional background, I hold a master’s degree in healthcare management, which complements my foundational education as a pharmacist.

Q: How did you eventually make the transition to Medline?

I have always been passionate about marketing and joining Medline felt like a natural fit given my background in healthcare. Just as pharmacists provide guidance to patients, Medline adopts a consultative approach to guiding customers in finding the right solution tailored to their specific needs.

With my experience as a pharmacist and in the pharmaceutical industry, joining a company which operates at the intersection of healthcare and innovation was incredibly exciting. It provided an opportunity to apply my knowledge and skills in a broader context as Medline offers a diverse portfolio of over 35,000 products, spanning different healthcare segments and spaces.

I’ve enjoyed using my healthcare background to inform how Medline delivers comprehensive solutions, builds brand awareness and contributes to the company’s broader mission of innovating and improving healthcare delivery.

Q: What from your pharma career has been particularly advantageous for you as a marketer?

My background as a pharmacist provides me with a deeper understanding of the challenges our customers face. My interactions with a variety of healthcare providers have provided valuable insight into their priorities and expectations. This firsthand experience helps ensure that we connect with our customers in meaningful and impactful ways. Over the years, I have refined my ability to navigate complex healthcare systems, analyze market dynamics, and collaborate effectively with clinical teams, all of which are critical in my role at Medline.

Q: Is there one achievement or moment from your pharmacy career that you are particularly proud of?

One of the most rewarding aspects of my pharmacy career was the appreciation I received from patients. Knowing that I could make a meaningful difference in their lives gave me a profound sense of pride and fulfillment. It reinforced my role as a real contributor to our society and that sense of purpose continues to inspire me in my current role at Medline where I strive to make a positive impact on healthcare outcomes.

From your vantage point, can you describe the critical role that pharmacists play in the overall healthcare ecosystem? In the healthcare journeys of patients?

Pharmacists are key healthcare professionals. They’re often the first point of contact for patients, providing guidance, personalized care, and education. And they also play an important role in optimizing care. For instance, a consultation might uncover a patient’s underlying issue that requires further consultation with a family doctor or specialist.

I think it’s key that patients better understand the critical work pharmacists do behind the counter. There’s a misconception that pharmacists just dispense medications. However, they play key roles in optimizing therapy, managing chronic conditions, and preventing adverse drug reactions. The pharmacy sector’s contribution to patient care extends far beyond what is commonly recognized.

Expanding awareness of the full mandate of pharmacists is key to help patients appreciate the care provided but to also ensure they can advocate for the level of service and support they deserve.