Pharmacies and the Pharmacy Profession

table of contents

1. From Dispensing to Pharmaceutical Care
2. The Dispensing Doctor Debate
3. The Traits of a Profession
4. The Changing Role of Pharmacists
5. International Guidelines for Good Pharmacy Practice (GPP)
6. The Four Elements of GPP
7. Conclusion 

Pharmacies and the Pharmacy Profession - A Historical and Evolving Role

This article explores the history of pharmacies and the pharmacy profession, highlighting its transformation and contemporary challenges.

Key terms:

•  Pharmacy history
• Pharmacist roles and responsibilities
• Good Pharmacy Practice (GPP)
• Pharmaceutical care
• International Pharmacy Federation (FIP)

Pharmacies and the Pharmacy Profession

From Dispensing to Pharmaceutical Care

Historically, pharmacies functioned as centers for storing, preparing, and distributing medications. The separation of pharmacy and medicine as distinct professions arose in the 13th century. Pharmacists ensured medication safety and accuracy, while physicians diagnosed and prescribed treatments.

The Dispensing Doctor Debate

In some countries, the line between these professions remains blurred, with "dispensing doctors" prescribing and selling medications. This practice raises concerns about conflict of interest, as a physician's income might be tied to medication sales.

The Traits of a Profession

The characteristics of a profession include:

1. Advanced training and specialized knowledge
2. Ethical codes and standards
3. A commitment to serving society
4. Client trust and professional judgment
5. Autonomy and control over practice

Pharmacy fulfills many of these criteria. Pharmacists possess in-depth knowledge of medications, act in the best interests of patients, and adhere to ethical codes.

The Changing Role of Pharmacists

The rise of the pharmaceutical industry reduced pharmacists' traditional roles in compounding and procuring drugs. However, their expertise in medication safety and quality control remains vital.

The 1960s saw the emergence of the clinical pharmacy movement, emphasizing pharmacists' role in patient care. This concept evolved into the contemporary focus on pharmaceutical care, which goes beyond dispensing medications.

International Guidelines for Good Pharmacy Practice (GPP)

The International Pharmacy Federation (FIP) promotes Good Pharmacy Practice (GPP) as a framework for optimal pharmacy service. GPP highlights pharmacists' contributions to:

• Promoting good health
• Ensuring the safe and effective use of medications
• Providing self-care advice
• Influencing rational prescribing practices

GPP emphasizes collaboration with other healthcare professionals, patient-centered care, and continuous professional development for pharmacists.

The Four Elements of GPP

The FIP guidelines outline four key elements of GPP:

1. Promotion of good health: Pharmacists can advise on preventive measures and healthy lifestyles.
2. The supply and use of medicines: This include ensuring medication quality, providing accurate information to patients, and monitoring medication effects.
3. Self-care: Pharmacists can guide patients on self-care practices and proper use of over-the-counter medications. 
4. Influencing prescribing and medicine use: Pharmacists can collaborate with physicians to promote rational prescribing practices and optimize medication use for patients.

Conclusion 

The pharmacy profession has undergone significant changes. By embracing a patient-centered approach and adhering to GPP principles, pharmacists can ensure medication safety, optimize patient care, and solidify their role as vital members of the healthcare team.

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