On September 16, 2026, Assistant Professor Dr. Siddhibhong Jongkraijakra, faculty member of the School of Pharmacy, Walailak University, was invited as a guest speaker at the capacity-building training and knowledge-sharing forum aimed at strengthening the primary healthcare network. The event took place at the 5th Floor Conference Room, Phatthalung Provincial Public Health Office, Phatthalung Province.
The training was organized by the Phatthalung Provincial Public Health Office under the project “Empowering Primary Care Networks in Health Promotion and Care for Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) Patients with Rational Drug and Health Product Use, Fiscal Year 2026.” Its primary objective was to enhance the knowledge and practical skills of primary healthcare professionals in caring for elderly individuals and chronic disease (NCDs) patients, while promoting safe and rational drug use within the community.
During the morning session, Asst. Prof. Dr. Sittiphong Chongkraijak delivered a lecture titled “Pharmaceutical Care and Rational Drug Use in the Elderly within Primary Care Services.” Key discussion topics included:
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Appropriate Medication Use in Geriatric Patients: Managing polypharmacy and reducing associated risks in elderly care.
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Assessment Tools for Prescribing Appropriateness: Utilizing clinical criteria and screening tools to identify potentially inappropriate medications and minimize medication errors.
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Safety Guidelines for Specific Disease Groups and Drug Classes: Monitoring high-risk medications, adverse effects, and long-term medication use (such as Proton Pump Inhibitors – PPIs).
In addition to the lecture, the event featured multidisciplinary panel discussions bringing together family physicians, hospital and community pharmacists, registered nurses, physical therapists, psychologists, and clinical nutritionists. The panel shared integrative approaches and collaborative models to provide holistic, patient-centered care for elderly and chronic disease patients.
This academic service highlights the active engagement and contribution of the School of Pharmacy, Walailak University, in sharing professional expertise, supporting public healthcare systems, and improving the quality of life and healthcare standards in southern Thailand.
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