World Pharmacists Day 2026

Empowering pharmacists. Shaping the future of healthcare.

World Pharmacists’ Day takes place worldwide on September 25. This day of action, initiated by the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP), recognizes the contribution of pharmacists to healthcare. The 2026 theme is ‘Empowering pharmacists for healthier futures’ and highlights their central role in ensuring sustainable healthcare.

Much more than just dispensing medicines

Pharmacies are much more than just places to buy medicines and medical devices. As well as safely dispensing medicines, they now offer a wide range of services, including vaccinations, health checks and personalized advice on acute and chronic conditions. In this way, pharmacists play a vital role in improving health literacy and supporting individuals in making informed health decisions in their daily lives [1, 2].

This role is becoming increasingly important in the face of an ageing society, the rise in chronic conditions, and growing demands on healthcare systems [3]. Pharmacists convey health information in an understandable way, make medication safer and provide long-term support to patients.

Indispensable partners for patient safety

Two healthcare professionals stand together, one holding a syringe, illustrating vaccination or injection care in a clinical context.

Personal advice from pharmacists is an important factor in ensuring patient safety. Pharmacists can provide guidance on the correct use of medicines, explain possible interactions, and help identify risks early on. This expertise is particularly important for people taking multiple medications [3].

Thanks to their pharmaceutical expertise, pharmacy teams help prevent medication errors and improve healthcare quality in the long term. As easily accessible from local points of contact, they combine scientific knowledge with direct patient care, which is a crucial factor for ensuring that treatment is both safe and effective [4].

Prevention and care: pharmacies as key partners in healthcare

As well as dispensing medicines, pharmacists play a valuable role in preventive healthcare. They provide advice on effective hygiene measures to help people prevent infections in their daily lives. Consistent hand hygiene and regular disinfection of frequently touched surfaces can reduce the risk of infection transmission, particularly in households with elderly or immune-compromised individuals, or those in need of care.

To help protect you when you're out and about, pharmacies offer practical solutions such as Sterillium® gel 50 ml and Sterillium® 2in1 wipes. These convenient products make it easy to practice good hand hygiene in everyday situations, whether travelling, at work or on the go.

Furthermore, pharmacies are key points of contact for home care. As well as products for hand hygiene and surface disinfection, relatives and affected individuals can find solutions for modern wound care and incontinence management there, too. With products such as MoliCare® and a wide range of wound care products, HARTMANN helps promote safety, quality of life, and independence in the home.

Healthcare worker offers a hand disinfectant bottle to a patient, illustrating hand hygiene and infection control in a clinical setting.

Pharmacists shape healthier prospects for the future

The theme of World Pharmacists' Day 2026 could not be clearer: well-trained pharmacists who are integrated into the healthcare system are essential for building resilient healthcare systems. As experts in medicines, prevention and health advice, pharmacists make a valuable contribution to improving access to healthcare, enhancing treatment safety, and promoting long-term population health every day.

Working together for better health

As a partner to pharmacies, HARTMANN supports pharmacists in their day-to-day work by providing solutions for hygiene, wound care, incontinence management, and home care. This range is complemented by digital services and information platforms that facilitate personalized advice and care. HARTMANN Academy's e-learning courses and webinars help pharmacy teams continuously expand their knowledge and stay up to date, ensuring they can provide expert advice and the best possible care for patients.

Use disinfectants safely. Always read the label and product information before use.