The community pharmacist and health education

A behavioral-oriented approach to providing information to patients was examined. The goal of the approach was to produce behavioral change through health education. The pharmacist's role as a health educator was discussed, and patient education was distinguished from information dispensing. It was concluded that the preventive medicine concept makes the pharmacist's educational role important and requires communication and education skills to make that role viable. Pharmacy curricula and continuing education should address the need for such skills.