Did you know that human, animal, and environmental health are all interconnected? This idea forms the basis of One Health, a global initiative that brings together professionals from medicine, veterinary science, public health, and environmental science to solve shared health challenges.
But what role do pharmacists play in this global movement?
Dr. Meagan Garza: A Pharmacist Championing One Health
Dr. Meagan Garza, Pharm.D.—with experience in community pharmacy, academia, and work with Boiron USA—has spent her career promoting the pharmacist’s role in One Health. Her goal is to spotlight how pharmacy professionals can contribute meaningfully to global health solutions.
What Is One Health?
One Health is a multidisciplinary approach that recognizes the connection between people, animals, and the planet. Although the term has only gained widespread use since the 2000s, the philosophy dates back centuries—particularly in the veterinary field.
Meagan’s Journey Into One Health
While working on a school project about antimicrobial resistance (AMR), Dr. Garza realized how misuse and improper disposal of medications can lead to environmental pollution and drug-resistant infections—issues that cross both species and ecosystems.
Her veterinary-focused rotation at Texas A&M’s Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital deepened her awareness. From teaching vet students to working in pet care clinics, she saw how pharmacy knowledge could be a valuable asset in animal health too.
A veterinary conference in 2024 further solidified her purpose. Hearing a vet speak about the challenges of educating staff on AMR, she saw a clear opportunity: pharmacists could bridge this gap just like they do in hospitals.
Why It Matters Today
The COVID-19 pandemic showed how quickly a disease can spread from animals to humans—a process called zoonotic transmission. It also highlighted how fragile our global health systems can be. The One Health model is no longer just a good idea—it’s a necessity.
Pharmacists already play vital public health roles:
- Administering vaccines
- Managing chronic conditions
- Educating about safe medication use
- Assisting during health crises
Yet many don’t realize that these are core actions within the One Health framework.
How Pharmacists Can Make a Difference
Pharmacists are uniquely positioned to support One Health through:
Advocating for responsible antibiotic use
Teaching safe drug disposal to prevent contamination
Delivering immunizations and health screenings
Leading community disease management programs
Participating in emergency health responses
Promoting awareness of environmental health
Final Thoughts
Pharmacists are no longer limited to dispensing medications. They’re evolving into key players in global health, empowered by the One Health movement. As we face rising threats like pandemics, climate change, and drug resistance, the integration of pharmacy into broader health systems isn’t just beneficial—it’s crucial.
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