The Future of Pharmacy
Pharmacy is a broad field with diverse disciplines, from basic pharmaceutical science (pharmaceutics, pharmaceutical chemistry and pharmacodynamics) to the clinical application of drugs. A pharmacist’s responsibilities and duties may differ slightly by country, but there are common elements of the profession that can be embraced and leveraged across borders.
Pharmacy, which also includes the research, development and testing of pharmaceuticals, is an essential part of the healthcare system. Pharmacists are trained to identify and help prevent drug-related health issues, provide patient education and ensure that patients receive the best care possible. They are also responsible for developing, maintaining and implementing pharmacy procedures, policies and inventories, as well as keeping up with new medications on the market and related products, including digital health devices.
Pharmacists collect and analyze subjective and objective data regarding a patient’s general health, diet, exercise, previous illness, current medication, other prescription medications, over-the-counter and herbal medications, vitamins and supplements. They then make a recommendation for the optimal combination, dosage, and delivery method of medication for that patient. They communicate and explain these decisions to ensure that the patient understands the benefits, side effects, and interactions of their recommended drug therapy.
Many pharmacies are based in hospitals, where they work closely with doctors and nurses to manage and control patients’ medication. A hospital pharmacist’s duties are to ensure that the right drug is delivered in the correct dosage, and at the right time, to minimize complications and improve outcomes. They also advise medical staff on drug-related problems and educate patients on how to take their medication.
A growing number of pharmacies are re-imagining their role in society by providing services outside of the hospital setting. They are focusing on building relationships with customers, by offering them a wide range of healthcare products, from over-the-counter drugs to supplements and healthy snacks. They are also focusing on improving their service and convenience.
As a result, some are opening stores that look more like supermarkets than traditional drugstores and offering customers more personalized health advice. They are also investing in predictive analytics to improve adherence and patient outcomes. This is a great example of how global innovation is helping local companies adapt to the needs of their markets.
While the future of the pharmacy industry is bright, it is important to remember that its foundations are in place for a reason. In order to continue to advance and grow, it is vital that we embrace the many facets of this sector. This way, we can build a stronger and more effective pharmacy for our patients.
Pharmacy is a broad field with diverse disciplines, from basic pharmaceutical science (pharmaceutics, pharmaceutical chemistry and pharmacodynamics) to the clinical application of drugs. A pharmacist’s responsibilities and duties may differ slightly by country, but there are common elements of the profession that can be embraced and leveraged across borders. Pharmacy, which also includes the research, development and testing of pharmaceuticals, is an essential part of the healthcare system. Pharmacists are trained to identify and help prevent drug-related health issues, provide patient education and ensure that patients receive the best care possible. They are also responsible for developing, maintaining and implementing pharmacy procedures, policies and inventories, as well as keeping up with new medications on the market and related products, including digital health devices. Pharmacists collect and analyze subjective and objective data regarding a patient’s general health, diet, exercise, previous illness, current medication, other prescription medications, over-the-counter and herbal medications, vitamins and supplements. They then make a recommendation for the optimal combination, dosage, and delivery method of medication for that patient. They communicate and explain these decisions to ensure that the patient understands the benefits, side effects, and interactions of their recommended drug therapy. Many pharmacies are based in hospitals, where they work closely with doctors and nurses to manage and control patients’ medication. A hospital pharmacist’s duties are to ensure that the right drug is delivered in the correct dosage, and at the right time, to minimize complications and improve outcomes. They also advise medical staff on drug-related problems and educate patients on how to take their medication. A growing number of pharmacies are re-imagining their role in society by providing services outside of the hospital setting. They are focusing on building relationships with customers, by offering them a wide range of healthcare products, from over-the-counter drugs to supplements and healthy snacks. They are also focusing on improving their service and convenience. As a result, some are opening stores that look more like supermarkets than traditional drugstores and offering customers more personalized health advice. They are also investing in predictive analytics to improve adherence and patient outcomes. This is a great example of how global innovation is helping local companies adapt to the needs of their markets. While the future of the pharmacy industry is bright, it is important to remember that its foundations are in place for a reason. In order to continue to advance and grow, it is vital that we embrace the many facets of this sector. This way, we can build a stronger and more effective pharmacy for our patients.