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Being a pharmacist is more than just dispensing medicines. It is a profession that requires knowledge, empathy and a desire to help. For Anastasiia Bavenko, a pharmacist from Kyiv, the choice of this profession became obvious in her childhood. Her mother worked in a hospital, and young Anastasiia often accompanied her there.
“When I was a child, I was given a small medical gown, and even then, I knew that I would be connected to medicine. I was fascinated by how medicines interact with one another and how they affect health. I wanted to help people, and that’s what I do every day,” says Anastasiia.
“A pharmacist is not just a person who dispenses medicines. We are those who listen, explain, and help avoid mistakes. Often people come to us under stress, forgetting what the doctor said, or confused about the dosage. And when you see how a person calms down after your consultation, begins to understand what to do and how to do it, it gives you real pleasure. At such moments, you feel that your work is about support and care.”
One of the key aspects of our work is the Affordable Medicines Program. It enables many patients to continue treatment of chronic diseases even in difficult economic conditions.
“Every day, we dispense medicines based on electronic prescriptions. People have become more responsible about their treatment, as they now know that they can get the medications for free or at a reduced price. For example, patients with diabetes or hypertension no longer drop out of treatment due to financial difficulties. It really changes the quality of life,” says Anastasiia.
However, society often underestimates the importance of the pharmacist profession, calling them “salespeople”.
“Some people think that we are just dispensing medicines, but our work is much deeper. We may not be doctors, but we often help patients navigate their choice of medicines. For example, if a person has ordered several similar medications online, we can warn them about the risk of overdose. Often patients forget how to take their prescribed medications, and we explain the correct dosage or method of administration. This is a big responsibility,” highlights Anastasiia.
Pharmacists play an important role in preventing and maintaining public health.
“When people come to us with a cough or other symptoms, we advise them to see a doctor. But sometimes we need to help a person quickly, for example, to explain how to dilute medicines or take them in difficult cases. We are there to support, explain, and guide them, and many people follow our advice,” says Anastasiia.
Anastasiia emphasizes that even in the most challenging moments of work, it is crucial to remain human.
“During the war, people have become more anxious, which is understandable. Our task is to stay calm and help. We have to support patients and do our best to ensure that they receive quality care.”