Ministry of Health Urges Community to Report Adverse Drug Reactions during #MedSafetyWeek

The Ministry of Health and Social Development is calling on the community to actively participate in the promotion of medicine safety by reporting adverse drug reactions. This appeal comes as part of the global initiative known as #MedSafetyWeek, involving 85 countries, 52 languages, and 97 organizations dedicated to enhancing the safety of medicines worldwide.

Chief of Drugs and Pharmaceutical Services, Mrs. Gracia Wheatley-Smith, stressed that everyone, regardless of their role in healthcare, can play a vital role in ensuring the safety of medicines. She emphasized, “It doesn’t matter if you are a medical professional, patient, or pharmacist; everyone can do their part to make medicines safer by reporting side effects.”

The #MedSafetyWeek campaign, which runs from November 6th to 12th, aims to raise awareness about the importance of reporting adverse reactions to medicines, especially through social media platforms. By consistently collecting and monitoring these reports, the Ministry and other participating countries can identify potential risks associated with various medications and take timely action to minimize harm.

Mrs. Wheatley-Smith added, “Every report is essential in building more knowledge and understanding of the benefits and risks of medicines in clinical use. Reporting allows action to be taken to minimize risks, ultimately leading to positive benefits for users, better prescribing advice, and improved patient outcomes.”

The Ministry of Health and Social Development is encouraging individuals to report any adverse drug reactions to their healthcare professionals, pharmacists, or directly to the Office of the Chief of Drugs and Pharmaceutical Services. They can do so via email at grwheatley-smith@gov.vg or by phone at 284-468-9850.

As part of this year’s #MedSafetyWeek, the theme is ‘Who can Report,’ and the campaign will feature dynamic and informative videos in both Spanish and English. The community is encouraged to participate by sharing these videos with family members, friends, and co-workers on social media platforms, using the hashtag #MedSafetyWeek.

The Ministry of Health and Social Development’s commitment to ensuring the health and well-being of the British Virgin Islands’ population remains unwavering. They continue to manage all aspects of the environment that have the potential to negatively impact the health of the community efficiently.

By actively participating in #MedSafetyWeek and reporting adverse drug reactions, the community can collectively contribute to the safety and well-being of everyone in the British Virgin Islands.