Establishing pathways for access to pharmacist-provided patient care

Area of Science:

• Pharmacy Practice
• Health Services Research
• Medication Therapy Management

Background:

• Pharmacist-provided patient care is expanding.
• Access to these services is crucial for medication therapy needs.
• Gaps in care exist, particularly during transitions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe current pathways for pharmacist-provided patient care.
• To recommend next steps for improving access.
• To identify strategies for closing existing gaps in care.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of American Pharmacists Association reports.
• Review of existing literature on pharmacist-provided patient care services.
• Application of collaboration theory to identify solutions.

Main Results:

• Community pharmacies and integrated health organizations are primary access points.
• These pathways are complementary for comprehensive medication management.
• Gaps in access persist, especially during care transitions.

Conclusions:

• Collaboration theory can bridge gaps between healthcare organizations.
• Updating pharmacy practice acts is necessary for expanded roles.
• Reimbursement models and payment systems require reform to support new pharmacist functions.