Present Activities and Problems of Home Medical Care by Pharmacists

The rapidly aging population in Japan led to the revision of the dispensing fees, with reviews of the system for added fees on prescriptions for home-bound patients by one-pharmacist pharmacies. However, given the current situation, it is difficult for pharmacies to be engaged in home care, so there are few small pharmacies that are willing to do so. This situation led to a decrease in the number of pharmacists who are experienced in home care. Pharmacists are requesting that practical training in home care be included in the Model Core Curriculum. It is difficult for all students to receive Sample Practical Training, so I joined a working group that created case studies that demonstrate simulated experiences of home care. I believe that case studies are an instructional tool that offers essential points for acquiring practical knowledge. Case studies can reduce the anxiety of inexperienced pharmacists to engage in home care, and I expect that this educational approach will contribute to the promotion of business related to home care for pharmacists.