Asenemaso abuakwa: The Asenemaso Abuakwa branch of Top-Up Pharmacy, a private pharmaceutical company, marked its first anniversary by offering free health screenings to approximately 100 residents from the surrounding villages in the Atwima Nwabiagya South District of the Ashanti Region. The screenings included checks on eye, ear, nose, throat, blood pressure, sugar levels, and dental health.
According to Ghana News Agency, the pharmaceutical company also provided a five percent discount on all assessments and general consultations for those who visited the screening stands. Dr. Dorcas Kukua Gyesi, the Branch Manager, highlighted that Top-Up Pharmacy began operations in Ghana in 2006 and has since been committed to providing affordable and quality healthcare. The establishment of the branch in the Atwima Nwabiagya South District in July 2024 was aimed at expanding access to quality healthcare, a goal which has been realized.
Dr. Gyesi addressed the public's misconceptions about generic medications, emphasizing that these have the same active ingredients as brand-name drugs. The pharmacy adheres strictly to regulations regarding prescription medications, particularly opioids like tramadol. "We do not dispense opioid medications without a valid prescription. This policy is in place to protect our community from potential abuse and its devastating consequences," she assured.
She further pledged the pharmacy's commitment to community health through regular health talks and educational initiatives on responsible medication use and the dangers of opioid abuse. Dr. Maame Serwaa Gyamfi Adubofour, Clinical Care Coordinator at Akropong Polyclinic, urged all pharmacies and drug stores to follow the Pharmacy Council and the Food and Drug Authority guidelines, which prohibit the sale of opioids without approved medical prescriptions, to significantly reduce misuse.
Mr. Wisdom Osei Boamah, Municipal Chief Executive for Atwima Nwabiagya South, praised the pharmacy for its dedication to the community and encouraged residents to prioritize their health and avoid self-medication without professional medical advice.
