Overestimating clinical functions of distributive staff pharmacists

An unexpected outcome was obtained when an evaluation of the clinical functions performed by distributive staff pharmacists was completed. A random survey of clinical functions was completed by using a pharmacist activity log sheet. Direct observations made by pharmacy administration and information received through discussions with the staff pharmacists, over-estimated the actual amount of time being spent on clinical functions. Use of an integrated approach to pharmacy services requires that enough time for both distributive activities and clinical activities be appropriately balanced to assure effective intervention. PRN clinical pharmacy functions will produce sub-optimal results and negative long-term effects for the profession. Pharmacy administrators must prospectively monitor the clinical activities performed by members of their integrated staff and assure that adequate time is available for effective intervention in the drug use process. Subjective observations and information may not reflect the actual situation and should be considered extremely inaccurate.