ADVERTISEMENT
Perspectives From Pharmacists: What Do Pharmacists Wish Their Patients Knew?
A pharmacist’s workday is often filled with nonstop multitasking, answering phones, filling prescriptions, administering vaccines, talking to prescribers, counseling patients, processing insurance information, and so on.
In conversations with some of my fellow pharmacists, a common theme resonates. Most pharmacists wish patients could understand that practicing pharmacy is so much more than the common phrase—one we have all heard from time to time from some patients waiting for a prescription:
“What is taking so long? All you have to do is count some pills and put a label on it.”
Below are a few insights from pharmacists:
“In my years of practice, I have encountered many wonderful patients, but occasionally, I have encountered the cranky and impatient person who is demanding a refill for medication even though the doctor has not responded yet. I wish patients knew that sometimes it takes time to get refill requests processed, and if they don’t want to wait, put those requests in early enough and not wait until there is one pill left.“ —Pharmacist practicing for 30 years
"I wish more prescribers would tell patients about many of the manufacturer-sponsored patient cost-savings programs eligible to some patients. I have encountered many patients who attempt to fill a prescription, which cost several hundred dollars, and then they can’t afford the medicine or refuse to pay for it. As a result, they do not want the medicine until I tell the patient about the cost-savings program, which may result in zero cost or a very low copay. Patients are so appreciative of this information. Because of these programs, patients are getting access to a medication that they really need and might not have been able to afford.” —Pharmacist practicing 8 years
“I wish that some patients would try to take a more active role in their care and learn more about their medications and the indications for use. I have encountered many patients who do not know the names of their medications. Some patients would just know it is a white pill for their diabetes or blood pressure. In my years of practice, I have learned that patient education is an integral component of patient care. I encourage my patients to maintain a list of their medications." —Pharmacist with 10 years of practice
"I wish that some patients would understand that practicing pharmacy is more than just pill counting and requires screening for potential drug interactions, allergies, and contraindications. Many behind-the-scenes tasks go into processing a prescription, like insurance authorization, waiting to hear from a prescriber, etc., and we, as pharmacists, want to ensure that all of our patients get quality care. I try to treat all my patients with the care and concern that I would want someone else to use to treat one of my loved ones.” —Pharmacist with 18 years of experience
“As a relatively recent pharmacy graduate, I wish that people realize that a little kindness and courtesy go a long way. Being impolite and yelling at pharmacy staff does not help in any way and does not make anyone move any faster. Treating others with respect, understanding, and kindness is something the whole world needs.” —Pharmacist practicing 2 years
“During my years of practice, I wished that patients asked more questions about their medications and felt more comfortable doing so. I always tried to make my patients feel comfortable about asking questions, and by engaging patients in conversations, I sometimes identified drug/supplement interactions or interactions with OTC medications that patients were routinely using.” —Retired pharmacist after 35 years in practice
In my years of practice, I wish patients would understand that pharmacists across the country work diligently to provide quality care to millions of patients every day. Many days are nonstop and filled with a lot of responsibility to ensure that medications are prescribed, prepared, dispensed, and used correctly.
Throughout the workday, pharmacists wear many hats and often wear several of them at the same time. Patients should understand that we are all on the same team, and the common goal is to improve the health and wellbeing of patients.
When we work together, treat each other with respect and kindness, and add a little patience, we can accomplish those goals.
To my fellow pharmacists, what do you wish patients knew?
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Population Health Learning Network or HMP Global, their employees, and affiliates. Any content provided by our bloggers or authors are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, association, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything.
