THINGS I WISH MY
PATIENTS KNEW
is a collaborative artwork that reflects pharmacists’ hopes and wishes for their patients and the public.
Come explore this artwork at our event and be part of our unique Pledge Wall! Share your personal health goals and see how befriending a pharmacist can support you in achieving them.
Whether it’s quitting smoking, learning to manage your medical conditions better, or simply taking steps towards healthier living—make your pledge with us this 21st September at Heartbeat@Bedok!
"Things I Wish My Patients Knew"
"Please complete your antibiotic dose and do not stop the med just because you feel better."
"You are doing well. Don’t give up!"
"Taking painkillers within recommended dosage occasionally when in pain is ok. You don't need to avoid taking pain medications including paracetamol at all cost."
"Did you know you can get your annual flu vaccination at community pharmacies? Feel free to ask us any questions about vaccines—we're here to help!"
"Please don’t be alarmed when we ask for your NRIC when supplying restricted medications. Similar to clinics and hospitals, verifying your personal identification helps us ensure the right medication is given to the right patient."
"Thinking to quit smoking or vaping? You can always come down to your nearby community pharmacy to find out the various strategies available to help you quit smoking/vaping."
"Ever wondered what pharmacists do beyond supplying your medications? Pharmacists educate and nurture the next generations of pharmacy students, provide medication reviews at nursing homes, collaborate with other health institutions for clinical projects, manage stores and inventory and more!"
"Take your medicine regularly okies!"
"Paracetamol alone does not help to relieve all symptoms of flu."
"Thank you for looking for me for medical and health advice! I look forward to seeing you stay healthy!"
"I hope you know I truly care for you and your health, it’s not just about adding more medications."
"I know it’s a lot of medicines, I know it can be overwhelming and tiring to remember everything but don’t give up, do your best to shine in good health. :)"
"We have been trying our best to dispense and pass to you your medication safely. 🙏"
"We appreciate your patience when there’s a queue at our pharmacy counter. Even if you have a quick question, please kindly wait for your turn so that we can give every person—including you—our full attention and provide the assistance you need."
"Feeling overwhelmed by the wide range of health supplements available? Our community pharmacists are here to help—feel free to ask us which supplements may best suit your needs. "
"We understand that long waiting times and feeling unwell can be frustrating—for you or your loved ones. Please know that we are doing our best to assist everyone with care and efficiency. Please treat us with kindness, patience and respect. Verbal or physical abuse hurts; it's not okay and will not be tolerated."
"Thank you for being positive. Thank you for the positive words and appreciation. I am very proud of you and wish you all the best in your treatment journey."
"I feel guilty when I order chicken rice for lunch, after I just counselled you on the HPB healthy plate portions."
"Most of the time, we have no control over brand changes. We are as frustrated as you are."
"Don't wait till you have completely run out of medication to come purchase it as stocks may not be readily available. Do come back early for refills 1-2 weeks in advance to ensure you have sufficient medication till your next doctor's appointment!"
"Thank you for your kind words, sweet gestures and for sharing your wonderful stories—they truly brighten our day!"
"We're here to help you sort out your medications and answer any questions you may have. We can even help you create a medication list to show your doctor!"
"We are here to help you manage minor ailments and minor health concerns."
"If anything I could help, please feel free to ask. Always happy to help."
"If you have any specific medication that you prefer, please inform your doctor to write in the prescription to prevent delays in dispensing."
"All prescriptions are only valid for 1 year! Please remember to collect your medications from the pharmacist if you need before it expires."
"Do not skip your medication or try to adjust it by yourself. For your safety, please check with us or your doctor first."
"Thank you for being patient when we take some time to check certain details. Appreciate you sharing your experiences, we learn from our patients and customers too. 2 way discussion is the best as it allows both parties to get the most out of the conversation, so don't feel shy to share your concerns with us. :)"
"I wish you knew that the medications that reach you in ward, is the result of hard work from many pharmacists and pharmacy technicians, even though you may not see us."
"Don’t trust everything you read on the internet."
"Insulin does not cause your diabetes to worsen."
"Be honest with us, we want to help. :)"
"The short expiry dates from vendors are beyond our control. I know you are frustrated, please do not take it out on us."
"We are trying our best to expedite your prescriptions. When there are delays, we could be performing necessary interventions with your doctors. Please understand that we are looking out for you, kindly be patient with us."
"Aunties! Uncles! We respect your courage and humility to seek help and advice. <3"
"I also wish the medication brand and packaging will stop changing, it's confusing for us too. 😵💫"
"Please remember to take your medications uncle, it is important to keep your health condition under control."
"Medicine might not taste good, but I am glad that you take them regularly as needed."
"Not every cough and cold symptom needs antibiotics!"
"Please do not share your medication with others. It may be good for you but dangerous for others."
"Concerned over how to better manage your diabetes? You can rely on pharmacists for medication and health advice to help you keep your blood sugar levels within optimal range."
"Please do not stop taking your long term medications without speaking to your doctor."
"I wish I could have more time to share with you on lifestyle advice without having to worry too much about clearing crowds."
"Laws regarding medication (and whether prescriptions are needed) are put in place for your safety. We are not intentionally trying to withhold medications."
"Take your medicines as prescribed even if you feel well."
"We need to ensure your complete safety by checking your prescription and medications thoroughly. Please don’t rush us, we want to make sure you receive the correct medications."
"Not all medications can be refrigerated. Always refer to the information leaflet or ask us if you are unsure of how to store your medications."
"Please understand that due to legal requirements we are not able to accept photocopied or certain electronic prescriptions. To prevent disappointments, please always bring your original hard copy prescription to collect your medication from community pharmacy."
"I really admire your resilience as a caregiver."
"You did well in knowing your medications and taking it right! It's really important, as taking the right medicines helps manage your condition effectively and keeps you safe."
"I know you’re hungry and upset, but we haven’t had our lunch (or breakfast) too!"
"Dear Transplant Patients,
I hope this letter finds you in good spirits and strength.
I often think of the incredible courage and resilience you showed during your transplant journey. It wasn’t an easy road —but you faced it with a strength that inspired everyone around you, including me.
Even after all this time, I want you to know that your progress and recovery have never gone unnoticed. You are a testament to how determination, hope, and faith can lead to remarkable healing.
There may still be moments of doubt or difficulty, but please remember: you’ve already overcome one of the toughest challenges life can offer. That same strength still lives in you today—and it will carry you through anything that lies ahead.
Take each day at your own pace. Celebrate every small win. And never underestimate how far you’ve come.
Wishing you continued good health, peace of mind, and all the happiness you deserve."
"Always check your medication's quality, watch out for smell or discolouration and let us know if you find that something is not right."
"Let us know if you are following up at any other healthcare institutions, especially when doctor starts you on a new medication so that we can make sure your medication does not have any duplication or drug-drug interactions."
"Do you know that we can help you sort your medications by removing unnecessary medication and save cost? 😊"
"Jiayou! Let’s take care of your health together!!"
"Insulin will not cause your kidneys to fail."
"Your friends may give you health advice but they are not always right or suitable for you. Your healthcare provider knows best!"
"For your safety, please pay attention and put down your handphone when I'm trying to teach you about your medication."
"I, too, wish that your medications can be cheaper or have longer expiry dates."
"Please do not identify medicines solely by its colour and shape! Different medications can be of similar appearance."
"I am heartened to hear that you continue to look for me even after I have moved to another branch!"
"Cheer up kiddo! Having to take lots of medications is no fun but we hope you can have the best quality of life possible!"
"Help us support sustainability! Please bring recycle bags when you collect your medication at any pharmacy. Thank you."
"Share your medication supply concerns with us besides sharing with doctor. We are in position to ensure you have just the right quantity of medication, not too much, not too little."
"There are 2 types of people in this world who you should never rush. The people who prepare your food and the people who prepare your medication."
"Some community pharmacists are also the store manager. Feel free to approach us if we are not at the dispensary."
"You’re right. We need more staff."
"I wish I told you how much we all miss your husband too."
"I hate that I know how sick your child is and there’s nothing more I can do to help."
