Harvey A. K. Whitney Lecture: Patient accountability--pharmacists' future

A philosophy of pharmacy practice is expressed, centering on service and accountability to the patient. To attain the goal of comprehensive pharmaceutical services, one must consider the factors of the environment and the characteristics of individual pharmacists. Aspects of the environment include support by the hospital administration and medical staff, and team cooperation among pharmacists and among all health professionals. Individual motivation to perform must be based on service to the patient. It is suggested that economic justification of pharmaceutical services should be a major goal of pharmacy organizations. The problem of employment opportunities for young pharmacists is discussed. The future of pharmacy practice is bright if pharmacists center their activity around the patient and become accountable for patient services.