From graduation trucks to tomorrow’s challenges

We are constantly faced with new issues to consider and adapt to. Occasionally, this causes concern, but more often than not, it becomes a positive challenge. The students on the trucks, however, seem carefree, cheerful, and optimistic – and hopefully, we’ll get to know many of them this autumn as many of them are likely to begin their studies on Medfarm’s excellent programmes.

As mentioned, graduation is one of many clear signs of summer, even though most of us still have a fair bit to do before the holidays. Midsummer usually marks the start of the break in Sweden, but for our Disciplinary Domain, the following week, with Almedalen as a key event, will likely mark the conclusion. As always, Uppsala University will be present – not least our own Disciplinary Domain, which this year is organising over 20 seminars at Campus Gotland.

Future-focused discussions in Almedalen

As always, the seminars will feature both internal and external researchers, experts, and decision-makers. This year, we’ll be addressing a range of exciting and pressing issues. Among other things, we’ll explore how healthcare is evolving in response to new technologies and societal challenges.

In one of our seminars, we’ll discuss how artificial intelligence is affecting the role of the pharmacist – will AI replace the pharmaceutical expert, or will it instead transform and enhance the profession? In another, we’ll examine why Sweden, unlike many other countries, lacks defined requirements for continuing education for licensed healthcare professionals – and whether this poses a risk to patient safety. Other key topics include mental health among young people, domestic violence, gambling addiction, gang crime, drug use, and social insecurity. We’ll also highlight how to improve children’s health, foster hope for the future, and build a more equitable, health-promoting, and sustainable society.

In summary, this year’s Almedalen programme demonstrates some of the breadth and relevance of the issues we at the Disciplinary Domain of Medicine and Pharmacy continuously work with – from the impact of technology on healthcare professions to how we best promote health, safety, and hope throughout society.

With that, I wish you all a relaxing holiday – whenever the time comes. Have a wonderful summer!

Mathias Hallberg, Dean of the Faculty of Pharmacy