This podcast discusses the potential for pharmacists to play a larger role in healthcare delivery by prescribing medications and performing routine tests, addressing the shortage of primary healthcare practitioners. It explores the benefits and implementation of pharmacists having full practice authority, including increased accessibility and convenience for patients. The podcast also explores the idea of allowing pharmacists to handle low-level illnesses, while addressing concerns about safety and liability. It highlights the important role of pharmacists in prescribing birth control and HIV medications, and mentions workarounds implemented in some states to allow pharmacists to prescribe these medications.
Pharmacists can alleviate the burden on primary healthcare practitioners by performing tests, prescribing routine medications, and offering treatments for common ailments.
Allowing pharmacists to provide convenient healthcare services can help bridge the gap in primary healthcare, especially in areas with limited access to doctors' offices.
Deep dives
Expanding scope of practice for pharmacists
Pharmacists have the potential to provide additional care beyond just dispensing medications. By allowing pharmacists to perform tests, prescribe routine medications, and offer treatments for common ailments, the burden on primary healthcare practitioners can be alleviated. In some places like New Zealand, certain states in the US, and the province of Alberta in Canada, pharmacists already have expanded practice authority. These professionals have the knowledge and expertise to provide services like routine tests and prescription medications for common disorders, which can be especially beneficial in areas with limited access to doctors' offices.
Addressing primary healthcare shortages
The shortage of primary healthcare practitioners, including physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants, poses a challenge. A greater utilization of mid-level healthcare practitioners, like pharmacists, can help bridge this gap. Pharmacists, with their availability in numerous locations, including rural and remote areas, can provide convenient healthcare services. By allowing pharmacists to perform tests, prescribe medications, and offer routine care, patients can access timely treatment without the need for doctor visits or urgent care centers.
Pharmacists and the role in preventative care
Pharmacists have the potential to play a crucial role in preventative care interventions. They can prescribe medications like birth control pills and HIV pre and post-exposure prophylaxis, which are effective in reducing the incidence of these conditions. With proper training and guidelines, pharmacists can safely provide these essential medications and empower individuals to proactively manage their health. Expanding the scope of pharmacist practice can improve access to preventive care and contribute to better public health outcomes.
There are many kinds of medical professionals who are legally prevented from delivering care for which they are trained. Jeff Singer describes how pharmacists could be allowed to step up.