To improve knowledge and understanding of the care of people with mental and behavioural disorders, pharmacists from “Mēness aptieka” visited the National Centre for Mental Health on 27 February.

During the Pharmacists Training Day, psychiatrist Liene Sīle, head of the Scientific Institute of the National Centre for Mental Health, together with pharmacists from “Mēness aptieka”, discussed cooperation between doctors and pharmacists in the care of patients with mental and behavioural disorders, and answered questions prepared by pharmacists, with a special focus on patient treatment adherence and support during the treatment.

Liene Sīle, psychiatrist and head of the Scientific Institute at the National Centre for Mental Health, says: “It is important for pharmacists and psychiatrists to cooperate, but in Latvia, this collaboration is not yet as developed as we would like it to be. People often visit pharmacies before seeing a doctor. In practice, I see that a pharmacist can not only be a trusted figure for the patient, someone who can recognize that a patient is going through crises and advises them to see a specialist, but also someone who often has a broad overview of the situation. This includes knowledge of medications prescribed by different specialists, potential drug interactions, whether the patient is taking their medication correctly, and even identifying side effects that should be reported to a doctor. Pharmacists play a crucial role in creating a safe and supportive environment for patients, helping them adhere to their treatment and follow doctors’ recommendations. They also provide guidance on maintaining a healthy lifestyle, which significantly impacts the treatment process. It is important to emphasize the importance of the patient’s own involvement in the treatment process, taking an active part in improving their own health.”

Ieva Turonoka, a pharmacist at “Mēness aptieka”, appreciates the experience: “A pharmacy is a place where people come to the attention of the pharmacist at different stages of their healthcare, with various complaints and diagnoses. In the provision of pharmaceutical care, it is important for us as healthcare professionals to maintain constant dialogue and build collaboration bridges with doctors from different specialties. In psychiatry, for us it is crucial to have a comprehensive understanding of factors related to patient treatment adherence, proper medication use, the risk of side effects, and the support that patients need. Additionally, jointly discussing topics that are sometimes unclear to both parties, such as changes in legislation and prescribing practices can be valuable. Strengthening this collaboration ultimately benefits the patient.”

During the discussion, the specialists shared their experiences regarding the most frequently asked patient questions about the correct use of medicines, discussed the management of patients with various complaints who first come to the pharmacists before seeing a doctor and emphasized the importance of lifestyle factors in preventing mental disorders and ensuring the successful treatment of mental illnesses.

During the visit, Silva Bendrāte, Public Relations Specialist at the National Centre for Mental Health, introduced the participants to the Centre’s historical and cultural space and permanent exhibition, designed as an external publicity platform for dialogue with society to reduce prejudice and stigma against psychiatric, build tolerant, positive attitudes, better understanding and promote timely treatment.