The evolving role of our pharmacists

Most often, when we are asked who our health care providers are, we do not think of our pharmacist as being a member of our care team.  However, as health care is evolving, so is the role of the pharmacist.  This is certainly seen in primary care practices across the country that are following the patient-centered medical home model, based on a higher level of care coordination.  We are also seeing the pharmacist's role changing at some of the local pharmacies in our neighborhoods.  At most pharmacies, there is a counselling window where consumers are able to ask questions of the pharmacist, but at some pharmacies, the involvement of the pharmacist in patient care is much greater and is leading to higher levels of patient medication adherence and better medical outcomes.  Did you know that pharmacists can provide a comprehensive review of your prescribed and over-the-counter medications?  They can assess your medication(s) for appropriateness, efficacy, safety, and adherence so that patients will get the best results. They can work with patients to develop a personal medication care plan to support better self-management goals. Importantly, they can also document and communicate your care plan to you and your health care providers - in other words, facilitate this part of care coordination. In addition, there are other supports that some pharmacies are now offering including bubble packing a patient's medications which can lead to less missed dosages and easier medications management.  If you feel that these services might help you or someone you know with their medication adherence or understanding, ask your pharmacist if they offer these services.