President Tsai meets International Pharmaceutical Federation President Carmen Pena
On the morning of October 3, President Tsai Ing-wen met with International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) President Carmen Pena and her husband. President Tsai stated that Taiwan is dealing with the challenges of an ageing population, so building a comprehensive pharmaceutical care network is one of the most important tasks facing our government. Taiwan's government also encourages pharmacists to do a good job of educating patients on the proper use of drugs to avoid wasting healthcare resources and ensure public safety.
In remarks, President Tsai noted that President Pena is an outstanding professional in the pharmaceutical field, and the first female president of the FIP. President Tsai added that every time she meets women who have won prizes at science fairs, she tells them that no matter what obstacles they encounter, they should maintain their passion for science. "I think you are an outstanding role model," said President Tsai, "so next time I get a chance, I'll be sure to mention you to encourage young women who want to go into science."
President Tsai pointed out that the FIP was founded 105 years ago and is one of three NGOs under the World Health Organization (WHO), which shows that pharmacists play an indispensable role in the healthcare system.
President Tsai stated that she has participated in a number of events for pharmacists, listening to their views and experiences, as well as their recommendations regarding healthcare systems.
President Tsai stated that Taiwan is dealing with challenges brought on by an ageing population, so building a comprehensive pharmaceutical care network is one of the most important tasks facing our government. Over the past year, the government has been working to set up the Long-term Care 2.0 system, and establishing standard operating procedures for pharmaceutical care in homes, communities, and institutions. The goal is to raise the level of professionalism among pharmacists. In addition, the government also encourages pharmacists to do a good job of educating patients on the proper use of drugs to avoid wasting healthcare resources and ensure public safety.
President Tsai mentioned that although Taiwan has yet to become a formal member of the WHO, as a member of the international community, Taiwan actively contributes its professional pharmaceutical knowledge and experience with the rest of the world.
President Tsai pointed out that this year marks the second time the International Pharmaceutical Students' Federation (IPSF) has held its World Congress in Taiwan, attracting pharmaceutical students from around the world. In addition, Taiwan has established international training courses in Good Pharmacy Practice (GPP) to help neighboring countries enhance pharmacist training and improve the quality of pharmaceutical care. This is why so many program participants come to Taiwan to interact with us and hone their skills.
And finally, President Tsai thanked the FIP for its long-standing support for Taiwan's participation in the World Health Assembly, and expressed hope that President Pena will come to Taiwan often to discuss professional issues with her peers.