[My Election] Pharmacist "Even if troubled by mask sales, it's a duty... An election for the vulnerable"

Pharmacist Johanseok

[Asia Economy Reporter Park Cheol-eung] The novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19) has torn daily life apart. It is an 'inconvenience' for everyone, but especially some are worried not only about health but also about 'economic survival.' Amid this, a general election is being held. It is a moment that makes us reconsider the role of the nation and politics. It is not a 'someone else's election' but 'my election.' This is a proposition that applies to everyone without exception. We met five voters: a mother anxious about the postponed school opening, a pharmacist on the front lines of the mask war, a startup CEO hampered by regulations, a businessperson who calls the Kaesong Industrial Complex era a "golden age," and a self-employed person with nothing but sighs. [Editor's note]

"When masks were in short supply, many people got angry asking why they weren't given, but these days they ask why their desired color, size, or brand product isn't available. I've been cursed so much that I think I'll live long." Pharmacist Jo Han-seok (40) said with a hollow smile.

It is one of the most challenging occupations amid the COVID-19 crisis. Public mask sales are said to have low profit margins and high labor burdens. On the contrary, it is reported that they are directly hit by decreased sales due to fewer hospital visits.

Pharmacist Jo said, "Public mask sales require a lot of effort, so considering labor costs, it can actually result in a loss," adding, "Besides masks, prescription customers have significantly decreased. When hospital patients decrease, pharmacies inevitably face management difficulties."

He continued, "The government said it would try to make pharmacy management easier, but tax application on mask sales revenue must be supported." He emphasized that taxing based solely on sales volume is inappropriate.

Although there is a social distancing atmosphere minimizing face-to-face contact, pharmacists have to deal with numerous customers daily. From the customers' perspective, crowding is also undesirable. Pharmacist Jo said, "I repeatedly asked customers to come in a dispersed manner because they could get infected while waiting in line. It has gotten much better now." Pharmacists are fulfilling their duty of service amid the COVID-19 crisis.

He gave a positive evaluation of the government's response. He said, "A friend working in France told me that a single mask costs about 24,000 won in Korean currency, and even doctors have to wear lower-grade masks," adding, "It seems they are doing well in quarantine, tracking, response, and kit supply. I am seeing theory become reality."

The key point of this general election also focuses on medical benefits. Above all, trust is emphasized. For him, 'my election' is 'study.' Pharmacist Jo said, "The flower of democracy is elections, and since we reap the fruits, we must actively participate," adding, "Rather than what candidates say during the campaign, the most important criterion is to look up past articles to see what actions they took."

He added, "Isn't it hardest for the economically vulnerable to receive medical benefits? I want to cast a vote for politics that can practically show consideration."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.