Celebrated on 01/12/2026
National Pharmacist Day is celebrated on January 12th each year, coinciding with the birth anniversary of John Morgan, a pioneer of American pharmacy who founded the first pharmacy school in the U.S. in 1765. Pharmacists are among the most trusted professionals, with surveys consistently ranking them second only to nurses in honesty and ethical standards.
National Pharmacist Day was established to recognize the vital role pharmacists play in healthcare. While the exact origin is unclear, the date January 12th was chosen to honor John Morgan (1735–1789), who founded the first pharmacy school in the American colonies at the College of Philadelphia (now University of Pennsylvania). Morgan advocated for the professionalization of pharmacy, separating it from medicine. The day was first widely observed in the early 2000s, promoted by pharmacy organizations like the American Pharmacists Association (APhA).
Initially, National Pharmacist Day was celebrated informally within pharmacies and pharmacy schools. Over time, it gained broader recognition through social media campaigns, community events, and proclamations by state governments. Today, pharmacies often offer health screenings, medication reviews, and educational sessions. The day also highlights the expanding role of pharmacists in patient care, including immunizations, chronic disease management, and telehealth services. Many organizations use the day to advocate for pharmacist provider status and improved recognition.
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