Health Savvy


Nov 15 2007

Understanding a pharmacist’s role in patient care

Published by Jennifer at 1:06 pm under Pharmacists

37_medication.jpg(NC)-Filling a prescription at your local pharmacy isn’t just about picking up and paying for medication. Today, many patients are taking more control of their health and looking for different ways to manage it.

Local pharmacists are frontline health providers, filling a need at a time when Canadians are searching for more information about medications and medical conditions. According to a recent survey conducted by Decima Research, over 66 per cent of respondents described their pharmacist, along with their doctor, as their most important source of health information. The survey also uncovered that four out of 10 Canadians feel they don’t have enough information about their medications, health conditions and treatments.

“When advising my patients I focus on creating an open dialogue about medications and health care options,” says Amanda Keefe, a pharmacist for Shoppers Drug Mart. “By developing a personal relationship and being available when my customers need me most, I am able to help them understand my role and better manage their health.”

When dispensing medications and counselling patients, Keefe relies on Pharma Track, part of the enhanced HealthWATCH practice, to provide her with relevant health information about medications and health conditions.

You can find out more about the pharmacist’s role in patient care by visiting your local pharmacy.

Credit: www.newscanada.com

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