Chin LASCO GROUP yesterday announced a "Pharmacist of the Year" award to recognise outstanding service by members of this professional group.
Lascelles Chin, the company's chairman, who launched the award at Le Meridien Jamaica Pegasus Hotel said that the award is part of an ongoing policy by the company to recognise outstanding groups in the society. Annual awards are already presented by the company to outstanding policemen, nurses and teachers.
He said that the Pharmacist of the Year Award would create a channel for the public to show their appreciation for pharmacists; reward pharmacists for their contribution to building a healthy nation and encourage members of this profession in a tangible way.
The pharmacist of the year will receive a cash award of $100,000 and a trophy and the runner-up will receive a plaque and $50,000. There will also be a Public Sector Award of $25,000.
"The pharmacist is a professional health provider who is the important link between doctors and their patients. He/she is oftentimes called upon by the public not just to be a dispenser of medication but also a confidante, counsellor and a friend. This programme is one of the ways which we will use in our efforts to salute the dedicated and professional pharmacists in our society," Mr. Chin said.
In outlining the criteria for selection, Lester Woolery, executive director, Lasco Pharmaceutical Division, said that nominations will be accepted from members of the public and from pharmacists via the three branches of the Pharmaceutical Society of Jamaica (PSJ). Nominees will be selected at two levels from the PSJ branches and then at the national level. The awards will be presented at the PSJ's annual retreat and banquet in June.
