IHCS FINALS

The Role of Pharmacist and Extended Pharmacy Services in the Health Care
System

The Role of Pharmacists in Health Care Delivery System

 Pharmacists play a crucial role in the healthcare system, as they are responsible for
ensuring the safe and effective use of medications.
 They work closely with patients, physicians, and other healthcare professionals to help
manage medication therapy and prevent adverse drug reactions.
 In addition to dispensing medications, pharmacists also provide a range of extended
pharmacy services that can help improve patient outcomes.
 These services may include medication therapy management, medication
synchronization, immunizations, health screenings, and disease management
programs.

Medication therapy management (MTM) is a particularly important service provided by

pharmacists.
o MTM involves a comprehensive review of a patient's medications to identify any
potential drug interactions, contraindications, or other issues that may affect
medication therapy. Pharmacists can then work with patients and their healthcare
providers to develop a personalized medication plan that is both safe and effective.

 Pharmacists also play an important role in promoting public health through

immunizations.
 Many states allow pharmacists to administer vaccines, and some pharmacists are often
able to provide immunizations in settings such as community pharmacies and clinics.
This can help increase vaccination rates and prevent the spread of infectious diseases.
 Pharmacists play an important role in the healthcare delivery system and are essential
members of the healthcare team.
Here are some of the key roles of pharmacists in the healthcare delivery system:
1. Medication Management:
o Pharmacists are responsible for ensuring the safe and effective use of medications
by patients.
o They review medication orders and prescriptions, check for potential drug
interactions or allergies, and provide advice on the appropriate use of medications.
2. Patient Counseling:
o Pharmacists provide counselling to patients on the proper use of medications,
including dosing, administration, and potential side effects.
o They also answer questions about over-the-counter medications and provide advice
on how to manage common health conditions.
3. Disease Management:
o Pharmacists work with physicians and other healthcare providers to manage chronic
diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and asthma.
o They provide medication therapy management services and help patients adhere to
their medication regimens.
4. Immunizations
o Not all pharmacists are licensed to provide immunizations, including vaccines for
influenza, pneumonia, and other infectious diseases.
o This helps to increase vaccination rates and prevent the spread of disease.
5. Medication Adherence:
o Pharmacists help patients to improve their medication adherence by providing
education, counseling, and reminders.
o This is particularly important for patients with chronic conditions who require
longterm medication therapy.
6. Public Health
o Pharmacists play an important role in promoting public health by providing
education and resources on topics such as smoking cessation, nutrition, and
exercise.
o They also participate in public health initiatives such as disease prevention and
medication safety campaigns.

 Pharmacists are essential members of the healthcare delivery system. They provide a
range of services that help to ensure the safe and effective use of medications, improve
patient outcomes, and promote public health.

Extended Pharmacy Service in The Health Care System

 Extended pharmacy services refer to a range of services provided by pharmacists that go
beyond the traditional dispensing of medications.
 These services may include medication therapy management, immunizations, health
screenings, chronic disease management, and patient education.
 In the healthcare system, extended pharmacy services can play an important role in
improving patient outcomes, reducing healthcare costs, and increasing access to care. For
example, pharmacists can work with patients to optimize medication therapy, monitor for
adverse drug reactions, and help patients manage chronic conditions such as diabetes and
hypertension.
 Pharmacists can also provide immunizations and health screenings, which can help
prevent disease and identify health issues early on.
 In addition, extended pharmacy services can help to address gaps in healthcare access,
particularly in underserved communities. For example, pharmacists can provide services
in rural areas where there may be a shortage of primary care providers.
 Extended pharmacy services have the potential to improve the quality of care for patients
and contribute to a more comprehensive and integrated healthcare system.

Philippine Pharmacist's Advocacy

The advocacy system for pharmacists in the Philippines is led by the Philippine Pharmacists
Association (PPhA), which is the national organization representing the interests of
pharmacists in the country.
o The PPhA promotes the professional development of pharmacists and advocates for
policies and initiatives that improve the quality of healthcare and promote the
welfare of the community.
 One of the key advocacy issues for pharmacists in the Philippines is the recognition of
their role as healthcare providers.
o The PPhA has been advocating for the expansion of the scope of practice of
pharmacists to include prescribing and dispensing of certain medications, as well as
providing extended pharmacy services such as medication therapy management,
immunizations, and health screenings.
o The PPhA also advocates for the implementation of policies and regulations that
ensure the safety and efficacy of medications, as well as the protection of the public
from counterfeit and substandard drugs. This includes advocating for the
establishment of a national drug information center to provide accurate and timely
information on medications to healthcare providers and the public.
 Another important advocacy issue for pharmacists in the Philippines is the promotion of
pharmacy education and research.
o The PPhA advocates for the development of pharmacy curricula that are aligned with
global standards and for the establishment of research centers to promote innovative
research in pharmacy practice and education.
 The Philippine Pharmacists Association Plays a vital role in advocating for the interests
of pharmacists in the country and promoting the role of pharmacists as essential members
of the healthcare team.