CVS's Press for Profits May Put Patient Care at Risk
Pharmacists play an increasingly important role in keeping people healthy. Doctors are relying more on medication as a less invasive and more effective way to treat many diseases; researchers are identifying new drugs and new uses for old ones; chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease are on the rise; and the population is aging. As a result, Americans are increasingly likely to take their morning coffee with a pill – or maybe several. A pharmacist is often the only professional in a position to make sure patients’ medications do what they are supposed to – help instead of hurt. The pharmacist can determine whether the drug prescribed by one doctor conflicts with another the patient is already taking. A pharmacist can ensure patients know how and when to take their medicine to avoid side effects like nausea or drowsiness. And a pharmacist is often the only clinical professional available to advise patients about the increasing number of powerful, formerly prescription drugs that are now available over the counter – not to mention the myriad of nutritional supplements on CVS’s shelves whose manufacturers bombard consumers with confusing health claims. A key requirement for pharmacists to fulfill these increasing responsibilities is time: time to consult with physicians about a patient’s drug regimen. Time to review a patient’s list of prescriptions for possible interactions. Above all, time to advise patients one-on-one about their drug therapy.
