Pharmacy Week

Pharmacy Week is observed annually during the third full week of October. In 2025, it will run from October 19 to October 25.

History of Pharmacy Week

Pharmacy Week was created to honor the work of pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, and the broader pharmacy profession. Over the years, it has become a time when healthcare organizations, pharmacies, and communities spotlight how critical pharmacy services are to public health, medication safety, and patient care.

While some regions may have slight variations in dates, the week is generally aligned with American Pharmacists Month—which spans all of October—and various associated observances like Pharmacy Technician Day. During Pharmacy Week, many institutions plan themed events, patient education campaigns, staff recognition, and public outreach to raise awareness about medication management, preventive care, and the evolving role of pharmacists.

Why Pharmacy Week matters

Pharmacists and pharmacy teams serve on the front lines of healthcare. They not only dispense medications, but also counsel patients, monitor for drug interactions, provide immunizations, assist in chronic disease management, and bridge gaps in access. Pharmacy Week helps illuminate these often behind‑the‑scenes contributions, reminding communities of the value of safe and accessible medication services.

Beyond recognition, the week is a call to action. It encourages pharmacies and health systems to engage with patients about proper medication use, promote health screenings, collaborate with other care providers, and develop innovative ways to support wellness. By doing so, Pharmacy Week strengthens public understanding of pharmacists as essential healthcare partners.

• It brings visibility to pharmacists’ and technicians’ roles
• It encourages patient education about safe medication use
• It highlights innovations and expanding services in pharmacy
• It affords a moment to thank pharmacy staff for their dedication
• It helps foster connections between pharmacists and communities

How to Celebrate Pharmacy Week

If you’re a pharmacist, pharmacy technician, or part of a pharmacy team, you can plan daily themes—like patient safety day, wellness screenings, or staff appreciation—to engage your community. Host Q&A sessions, medication review clinics, or immunization drives. Display informational materials or set up “ask your pharmacist” booths.

For community members or patients, you can participate by stopping by your pharmacy, asking a question about your medications, expressing appreciation to pharmacy staff, or sharing a positive pharmacy experience on social media. You might also volunteer to help distribute health education materials or support pharmacy outreach events.

Some ideas:

• Host a patient education or medication review event
• Offer wellness checks or mini clinics in the pharmacy
• Recognize or thank pharmacy staff publicly
• Share your experience with pharmacy services online
• Collaborate with local health organizations to amplify impact