Australians urged to speak to pharmacists as health misinformation grows
24 July 2024
The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) is today encouraging Australians to leave behind the advice of unverified websites and online influencers and instead visit their local pharmacist for accurate health information as it marks International Self-Care Day.
With the increasing availability of unverified and often inappropriate ‘health hacks’ online, PSA recognises the increasingly important role of pharmacists in tackling online misinformation while empowering Australians to be active agents in their own healthcare.
As a member Australia Self-Care Alliance PSA promotes the adoption of self-care through pharmacists, maintaining a suite of over 100 Self-Care Fact Cards to provide evidence-based health information to consumers.
PSA National President Associate Professor Fei Sim FPS said that misinformation can risk the health and wellbeing of Australians.
“Appropriate self-care does not replace the care provided by professionals, but enhances it,” A/Prof Sim said.
“Self-care is important as part of keeping yourself and your family healthy, but more and more often we’re seeing consumers getting health information from social media, which is often not based in evidence, and in some cases can be very dangerous.
“Pharmacists are registered health professionals who give evidence-based health advice to Australians. Instead of trusting social media influencers and the internet, I strongly encourage patients to speak with their local pharmacist about their health concerns where we can give you accurate health information or refer you on to the right healthcare provider.
“Today’s International Self-Care Day is a great reminder not only to look after your health and wellbeing, but also of the importance of following accurate health information,” A/Prof Sim concluded.
More information on self-care is available via the World Health Organization.
Pharmacists are encouraged to read the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) resource Empowering self-care: A handbook for pharmacists
Media contact: Georgia Clarke M: 0480 099 798 E: georgia.clarke@psa.org.au
