Written By: Dominique Jordan
April 8, 2020
Pharmacists have an important role in public health, advocating for health promotion and the responsible use of medicines. In these tasks, women are key players for three main reasons: first, women’s health is a determinant for countries’ development; secondly, women are an important health workforce; and, thirdly, they are the main caregivers at home.
The contribution of women in health systems is important. An analysis of 32 countries representing 52% of the world’s population concluded that they contribute around 5% of global GPD (2.35% through unpaid work and 2.47% through paid work).1
Caring for family members lies within the definition of unpaid work and such care is widely assumed by women. Although the importance to societies of caring for family members has begun to be visible, in some countries it remains a neglected topic. This should be of concern since care and self-care, present throughout the life cycle, are of great importance and represent a cross-cutting issue in all health interventions, including those made by pharmacists.
But a rethink is required. Broad definitions of the terms “care” and “caregiver” are needed that chime with population needs and social dynamics. First of all, these terms must be assumed equitably by all family members, regardless of gender. In addition, countries should begin to recognise the social and economic contribution that women make. Similarly, nations should seek political positions that guarantee the integrity and dignity of caregivers within society, especially for those who are unpaid. The dynamics of care is influenced by the characteristics of the population. Therefore, if societies are ageing, changes in care needs must be addressed.
Although current paradigms point towards active ageing, where participation and autonomy of the elderly is favoured, it must be recognised that there are huge differences in people’s physical, emotional, spiritual, economic and social needs. Hence, what is required of caregivers varies enormously and it can be overwhelming, especially for those looking after dependants. Such caregivers are generally overworked, lack state and family support, and lack training in health-related issues, among other things. In this group it is common to observe the so-called “burn out syndrome”, which can be detrimental to the caregiver’s health.
It is imperative, therefore, to promote care and self-care as rights and duties of all family members and communities as part of the responsible use of medicines. This would improve the quality of life of the caregiver, the elderly, the family and society. Consequently, pharmacists must work to provide tools, individually and collectively. For example, providing pharmaceutical care, giving reliable information about health and medicines, and promoting health literacy are essential. Pharmacists must go hand in hand with those caring for the elderly and, for this, they must encourage active ageing, understand the reality of caregivers’ experiences, and recognise the importance of care at all levels. Further, they must provide alternatives that facilitate caregivers’ work and advocate for their social recognition.
In conclusion, being a pharmacist requires a professional and ethical position that must support gender equity and promote people’s autonomy.