Hearteningly, he shares that his team prioritises looking out for one another’s welfare, readily offering encouragement and support when a colleague needs to step away for a moment of respite. Such gestures contribute to a culture of mutual respect and understanding within their team. As pharmacy technicians are integral members of the Pharmacy team in providing optimal care for patients, Imran reminds us to always express our gratitude for their tireless effort and dedication. 

At the end of a hard day’s work, what he anticipates most eagerly is unwinding with his family! With children to go home to, the sight of their cheerful faces infuses him with a renewed sense of energy, ready for yet another day of caring for cancer patients.

Imran = Dexamethasone?

When asked “What drug best describes you?”, Imran responded with the following:

“Dexamethasone, because of the multi-faceted use of the drug! Dexamethasone is used for nausea and vomiting, symptoms of brain metastasis and to prevent hypersensitivity reactions, among other uses. This is just like my role as a pharmacist where we often have to wear many hats. Not only that, I am a father, a team leader, counsellor and more! Dexamethasone is not the main treatment of the disease, but rather, it is a treatment given alongside chemotherapy to manage symptoms and ensure that treatment can go to completion, just like my role as a pharmacist and how pharmacists and physicians come together to treat our patients effectively with better quality of life.”

Forward Perspectives: The Expanding Horizons of Oncology Pharmacists

We asked Imran to share his perspectives on the future landscape for oncology pharmacists. His enthusiasm and positive outlook are infectious. He said:

“The buzz around clinical services is palpable, and rightfully so. There is immense potential in running clinics, an area we must harness with a growth mindset. Yet, there is a lot we can do even without running clinical services. There is a wealth of opportunity in making clinically significant interventions, guiding treatment decisions, and providing unwavering support to patients throughout their treatment journeys. I cannot help but feel that we are operating below our full potential, below what our licences empower us to achieve.

I particularly enjoyed attending conferences like HOPA every few years! It is always inspirational looking at oncology pharmacists in more mature healthcare systems, like those in the United States or even in some parts of Asia. However, it is not enough to simply emulate their practices. We must tailor them to suit our local context and unique environment, considering factors such as patient’s culture and health system capabilities.

Many leaders within hospital systems and departments are also increasingly supportive of pharmacists taking on more substantial roles. The landscape is brimming with opportunities, and the momentum is undeniably thrilling. Yet, to truly seize these opportunities, we must shed any inertia holding us back and propel forward.”