The Hague • 15 July 2020
The latest global guidance to support the pharmacy profession through the coronavirus/COVID-19 pandemic is released today by the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP). The guidance consists of three documents covering: (i) clinical information and treatment guidelines; (ii) advice for pharmacy teams (particularly in community pharmacies, hospital and clinical laboratories); and (iii) frequently asked questions.
The revised document replaces FIP’s update in March. It incorporates new evidence related to treatments for COVID-19 and disease transmission (namely, that related to air conditioning) as well as the most recent advice on the use of masks, and advises caution regarding the use of rapid point-of-care tests. The updated guidance also includes examples of professional services offered by pharmacists around the world to respond to the pandemic, and introduces several changes to recommendations for pharmacy practice and operations in light of newly available knowledge and the evolution of the pandemic. Finally, the updated third part of the guidance includes answers to a number of new questions sent to FIP by pharmacists from around the world.
“Increased reliance on the services of the pharmacy profession to keep our health systems going has continued over the past few months. Pharmacists must continue to serve their patients and to work with other healthcare professions to the best of their abilities and with the latest knowledge. This updated guidance from FIP will support them to do so,” said FIP president Mr Dominique Jordan.
Notes for editors
Links FIP’s resources on the coronavirus/COVID-19 outbreak can be found as follow:
Part 1 - Clinical information and treatment guidelines
Part 2 - Advice for pharmacy teams
Part 3 - FAQs
About FIP The International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) is the global federation of national associations of pharmacists and pharmaceutical scientists, and is in official relations with the World Health Organization. Through our 151 member organisations, we represent over four million practitioners and scientists around the world. Our vision is a world where everyone benefits from access to safe, effective, quality and affordable medicines and pharmaceutical care. www.fip.org
PRESS CONTACT
Lin-Nam Wang
Head of Corporate Communications & Advocacy
Email linnam@fip.org
Tel +31 70 302 1979