Antimicrobial Stewardship and Beyond: The Many Essential Roles of Infectious Diseases Pharmacists

Area of Science:

• Pharmacy
• Infectious Diseases
• Pharmacotherapy

Background:

• Infectious diseases (ID) pharmacists possess specialized knowledge in antimicrobial pharmacology and pharmacotherapy.
• While recognized for antimicrobial stewardship (AS), their roles extend beyond AS, originating from consultancy for complex antimicrobial cases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the expanding and diverse roles of infectious diseases pharmacists.
• To advocate for the growth of ID pharmacist roles outside of traditional AS, termed ID consultant pharmacists.
• To explore opportunities for ID pharmacists in various settings, including consultation teams, transitions of care, outpatient ID, and industry.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and expert opinion synthesis.
• Analysis of current and potential roles for ID pharmacists.
• Discussion of funding mechanisms and future opportunities.

Main Results:

• ID pharmacists are essential for collaborative patient care with ID providers.
• The complexity of infectious disease pharmacotherapy necessitates expanded roles for ID pharmacists.
• ID consultant pharmacists can function in inpatient, outpatient, transitions of care, and drug development settings.

Conclusions:

• ID pharmacists are vital members of healthcare teams, offering expertise beyond AS.
• Increased support and development of ID consultant pharmacist roles are essential for optimizing patient care.
• Exploring hybrid AS and ID consultant pharmacist positions can enhance collaborative ID patient care.