Know Your Medicines, Get It Right (Bishan)
Behold Emed’s second KYMGIR in 2024!
On November 2, 2024, Bishan Community Club buzzed with energy as the "Know Your Medicines, Get It Right! (KYMGIR)" was held. Organised by the 22nd and 23rd Essential Medicines Committee under the NUS Pharmaceutical Society, in partnership with the Central Community Development Council (CDC) and Pharmaceutical Society of Singapore (PSS), this annual flagship event serves to connect Bishan residents with healthcare professionals, facilitate medication reviews and provide health education.
An Exciting Line-Up: Activities and Booths at KYMGIR 2024
The event kicked off with a lively Tai Chi demonstration which highlighted the benefits of this gentle exercise for fall prevention, and osteoporosis management. This year, 12 passionate pharmacists dedicated their Saturday to volunteer and provide personalised consultations, ensuring seniors were well-informed about their medications and overall health. To complement these consultations, a series of talks led by pharmacists and an occupational therapist offered insights into osteoporosis prevention, medication safety, and fall prevention inventions at home, empowering seniors with practical, easy-to-apply knowledge.
But it wasn’t all talks and consultations! KYMGIR also offered a vibrant carnival-like experience, featuring various booths offering health screenings, interactive games, and educational posters. With overwhelming support from the SG Digital Office, Health Promotion Board, Healthier SG Office, and Silver Generation Office, participants also received hands-on guidance on the use of health-related technology applications such as HealthHub and Healthy 365, as well as essential health services and functional screening.
Public education posters focused on osteoporosis prevention and the proper disposal of medication waste were also on display. Do you know which medications have to be returned to the pharmacy when they are not needed anymore by the patient? Indeed, these booths were not only informative for the elderly but also the student volunteers.
Ms. Tan Ching Yue (Year 1 BPharm student volunteer) sharing knowledge on proper medication waste disposal
Key Takeaways
More than a mere event, KYMGIR provided students with a unique opportunity to grow as they observed pharmacists during medication reviews and gained insights into the patient care process. Through ushering, befriending, or explaining health concepts, students also honed their communication skills and empathy. Handling participants’ questions often stretched volunteers' knowledge, creating invaluable learning moments.
Looking Forward
KYMGIR 2024’s success is a testament to the dedication of the present students, the Pharmily alumni and supporting organisations. The genuine interactions between students, seniors, and professionals made the event particularly memorable and impactful.
The ever-energetic student volunteers posing for a post-event photo
For all students looking for a meaningful way to connect with the community, don’t miss next year’s KYMGIR! Whether as a befriender, poster educator, usher or assisting with taking blood pressure and BMI, every role offers a chance to make a difference and learn more about healthcare. We hope to see you there!
Article contribution: Mr. Chng Yi Yan (Year 2 BPharm Student), Ms. Goh Ting Ting Stefanie (Year 1 BPharm Student), Ms. Kyra Tan Kai Xin (Year 1 BPharm Student)
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