The Pharmacist’s Expertise in Managing Pneumococcal Diseases, Vaccines

Due to a variety of factors highlighting their expertise in both the community and immunizations, pharmacists are key providers in managing pneumococcal diseases and administering vaccines.

“I think the most important thing is, if you're in doubt, whether you are eligible for it or not, go talk to your pharmacist about it,” Megan Smith, PharmD, clinical pharmacist and health coach with Food City, told Drug Topics. “They’re there to answer any questions you have and help you feel at ease and make the right decision for you. Just don't be afraid to ask; I mean, it could protect your life, honestly.”

As most people in the pharmacy space fully understand by now, the COVID-19 pandemic was the key event that highlighted pharmacists’ crucial role as vaccine administrators. While this took the burden away from primary care providers to administer vaccines, pharmacists have since risen as authorities on immunization. The pneumococcal vaccine, and its various formulations, is no different.

In this week’s episode of Over the Counter, Smith joined Drug Topics to discuss the current state of pneumococcal vaccines—exploring the available formulations, at-risk populations, providers available for education, and the need to address vaccine hesitancy.

Learn from Smith, a practicing pharmacist and clinical educator, about how pharmacist accessibility and expertise are making a real difference throughout respiratory virus season and beyond.

Stay tuned for weekly podcast episodes of Over the Counter powered by Drug Topics. Check out our most recent episode with John C. Goodman, PhD, senior fellow at the Independent Institute and father of the health savings account. He discussed TrumpRx and the administration’s push to distributing drugs direct to patients.

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