The implementation of an expanded scope of practice for pharmacy is of utmost importance. The job of a pharmacologist is integral to healthcare. To expand the practice to its complete scope, the following services must be provided by pharmacists:
1. Administration of injections:
– Immunization or vaccination against common and endemic infections ( for both children and adults )
– Travel medication for tourists visiting warmer landscapes
– Emergency analgesics
2. Prescriptions
– Independent prescription of medication
– Re-prescribing
– Deprescribing
– Alteration of prescription
3. Conducting Laboratory testing
– Diagnostic tests
– Bedside testing
4. Management of diseases
– Prophylactic care
– Screening and diagnosis
– Management of chronic and acute conditions
Any country with a decent healthcare system should allow pharmacists to provide these services by legislating in support of them. This is what patients want and require. Evidence-based legislation that lets pharmacists provide all the services listed above is needed. Pharmacy extenders could be used in hospitals and the number of pharmacy interventions where necessary should improve. Pharmacists could serve as much as required front line health workers.
The implementation of such changes requires a government program that redefines and expands the scope of pharmacy practice. An appropriate and comprehensive bill regarding this issue is required. It should empower pharmacists and help increase their confidence. Low self-esteem reduces productivity which can be detrimental to healthcare outcomes. Pharmacy is a multidisciplinary profession, with a range of functions, and the bread of the curriculum hence has to increase.
