In a landmark gathering aimed at reshaping the landscape of pharmaceutical care and fortifying healthcare resilience, the tenth Hiranandani Pharmacy Conclave (HiPCon 2024) unfolded its significance in Mumbai on January 21. 

Under the auspices of Dr L H Hiranandani Hospital, the day-long event witnessed the convergence of pharmacists, clinical experts, and pharmacy students from Maharashtra and beyond. HiPCon 2024, with its exclusive theme "Optimising Patient Health: Empowering Pharmacists for Tomorrow," not only underscored the pivotal role of pharmacists but also set the stage for discussions on pressing healthcare challenges.

The conclave's inauguration was marked by the esteemed presence of Chief Guest Dr Rao V. S. V. Vadlamudi, Professional Secretary of the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) and World Health Organization (WHO) with the National Pharmaceutical Association of the South East Asian Region (SEAR). Dr Vadlamudi delivered a keynote address that shed light on the transformative role of Pharm D (Clinical Pharmacists) in healthcare. He emphasized their impact on ensuring equal, affordable, and accessible distribution of medicines across different healthcare levels. Urging pharmacists to continually update their skills, he stressed the need for alignment with the evolving requirements of pharmacy practice in the country.

Dr Sujit Chatterjee, CEO of Dr L H Hiranandani Hospital, acknowledged the pivotal role of pharmacists in society. He emphasised the need for personalised pharmaceutical care, where each pharmacist identifies and addresses the unique demands of patient care. Manisha Pal, Pharmacy In-charge and Organizer of HiPCon 2024, provided insights into the global evolution of pharmacists' roles, emphasizing the shift from traditional compounding responsibilities to a broader focus on medication therapy management.

A significant highlight of the conclave was the address by Manjiri Gharat, Vice President of FIP and IPA, who focused on the imperative role of infectious disease pharmacists in mitigating antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Gharat outlined key strategies, including awareness campaigns and a novel initiative called the Infectious Disease Fellowship Project by the Indian Pharmaceutical Association (IPA). This initiative aims to train pharmacists effectively to contribute to the fight against AMR.

The conclave featured a diverse array of speakers, each shedding light on various aspects of pharmacy practice. Dr Zarine Khety, heading the Purchase Department at Saifee Hospital, delved into the intricacies of healthcare supply chain challenges. She emphasised how the supply chain for healthcare is distinctive from other industries and explored potential challenges and solutions in ensuring a smooth and efficient supply network.

Dr Austin Fernandes, a psychiatrist with over a decade of experience, addressed the topic of "Investing in Self-care." He highlighted the importance of healthcare workers taking breaks, focusing on "me time," and understanding the significance of rejuvenation and relaxation. Dr Fernandes emphasised that self-care is as crucial as dedicating time to other professional activities.

Dr Vithya Thirumoorthi, Professor, and Head of the Department of Pharmacy Practice at Al Ameen College of Pharmacy, Bangalore, elaborated on the critical role of clinical pharmacists in resolving drug therapy problems. She emphasized the collaborative efforts between clinical pharmacists, doctors, nurses, and pharmacists to ensure patient safety. Dr Thirumoorthi highlighted the importance of clinical pharmacists' participation in ward rounds, providing suggestions and recommendations when needed.

Joy Chakraborty, Chief Operating Officer of Hinduja Hospital, covered the WHO-recognised area of patient engagement in medication safety. Chakraborty underscored the essential contributions patients can make to their safety and the prevention of errors and adverse events. He pointed out the challenge that doctors often have limited time to discuss medications with patients, leaving them without crucial information on risks, side effects, or when to stop medication. Chakraborty stressed the role of pharmacists in bridging this communication gap and ensuring patients are well-informed.

Dr Lallu Joseph, Secretary General of the Consortium of Accredited Healthcare Organizations (CAHO), India, tackled the crucial topic of "Incident Analysis – Tool Towards Creating the Culture of Safety." Dr Joseph highlighted why the analysis of incidents is vital, serving as a process to investigate the cause, determine impact, and identify preventive strategies. She stressed the importance of a strong safety culture that encourages reporting and transparency, facilitating learning from incidents and near-misses.

The conclave also witnessed numerous engaging posters as part of the presentation competition. The posters served as a medium for participants to create awareness and convey messages to society effectively.

Dr Manish Gupta, Medical Director at Dr L H Hiranandani Hospital, expressed gratitude to all speakers and participants in his vote of thanks, concluding the event on a high note. HiPCon 2024 has undeniably set a new standard for pharmacist competence, ushering in a transformative era in healthcare practices. The conclave's comprehensive discussions and innovative presentations have not only propelled the role of pharmacists but have also paved the way for a patient-centric, resilient healthcare system.

Bhagwati Prasad