Implications of the new technology for pharmacy education and practice

Educators and practitioners in the health professions are faced with two questions as they attempt to adapt to changes brought by new technology. What is the nature of the technology? and What are the implications for education and practice? The present paper directs these questions to pharmacy in a three-part discussion: the implications of the technology; the relevant technology presented as brief, descriptive vignettes; and comments on the apparent problems which are created by technological change. The implications are presented first, as a set of general guidelines, second, the implications for the knowledge and skill components of education and practice, and third, as attitudes required by pharmacists and pharmacy students. The paper concludes with a list of still unanswered questions relative to the future.