Local pharmacist selected as champion for campaign

Jennifer McDowell from Lisburn has been selected as champion for the ‘Pharmacy Futures NI’ campaign, recently launched by the Department for Health for Northern Ireland and Pharmacy Forum NI – the professional leadership body for pharmacists in Northern Ireland.
Pictured (L): Pharmacy Futures NI champion Jennifer McDowellPictured (L): Pharmacy Futures NI champion Jennifer McDowell
Pictured (L): Pharmacy Futures NI champion Jennifer McDowell

This follows the announcement that more than 1,100 additional roles in the pharmacy sector in Northern Ireland will be required over the next five years.

Jennifer said: “I think it’s fantastic that pharmacists are being recognised for their high-level knowledge and expertise and the contribution they can make to a patient’s health journey.”

Alongside an expansion of the sector’s workforce, which will include up to 560 community, hospital and general practice pharmacists and over 600 pharmacy technicians, the developments will see the role of pharmacists expand to encompass a much wider range of clinical services and will enable pharmacists a greater focus on the remit as medicines experts.

“Having someone optimise a patient’s medication and take the time to explain how it works and how to correctly take it can make all the difference to how a patient views their condition and their treatment,” Jennifer continued.

Although she grew up and studied in Northern Ireland, qualifying in 2017, Jennifer spent some time abroad volunteering which she says helped to broaden her views and experience. “Getting the chance to experience different cultures and views towards health and treatment has enabled me to really listen to patients and take on board their needs.”

Despite thoroughly enjoying her time abroad, Jennifer was still keen to pursue a career in Northern Ireland.