Wellness Tips… PHARMACISTS
What Does a Pharmacist Do?
We all know that pharmacists fill the prescription medication orders prescribed by physicians and other health practitioners.
But, increasingly, pharmacists are playing a larger role as a member of your health care team. Pharmacists are often called upon
to advise physicians and other health practitioners on the selection, dosages, interactions and side effects of medications. Many
pharmacists today also monitor the health and progress of patients to ensure the safe and effective use of medication.
Therefore, pharmacists must understand the use, clinical effects and composition of drugs, including their chemical, biological
and physical properties.
Your Local Pharmacist
Pharmacists in community and retail pharmacies answer patients’ questions about their prescriptions and provide counsel on
the possible side effects or interactions among various drugs. They also provide information about over-the-counter drugs and
the possibilities of interactions with any prescriptions they are taking. They also may give advice on a patient’s diet, exercise or
ways to manage stress.
Some community and retail pharmacists provide specialized services to help patients manage conditions such as diabetes,
asthma, smoking cessation or high blood pressure. Some pharmacists also are trained to administer vaccinations.
Pharmacists in Hospital and Home Health Care Settings
Besides dispensing medications, pharmacists in hospitals and health care facilities advise the medical staff on the selection and
effects of drugs. They counsel hospitalized patients on how to maintain their drug therapy regimen at home after they are
discharged.
Pharmacists who work in the field of in-home health care monitor drug therapy and prepare infusion (solutions that are
injected into patients) and other medications for use in the home. Some pharmacists specialize in specific drug therapy areas,
such as intravenous nutrition support, oncology (cancer), nuclear pharmacy (used for chemotherapy), geriatric pharmacy and
psychopharmacotherapy (the treatment of mental disorders by means of drugs).
Today’s pharmacists are much more than just a person behind the counter. They’re essential members of your health care
team who work hard to get you back in good health – and help you stay that way.
Resources Are Available
Additional information, self-help tools and other resources are available online at www.MagellanHealth.com. Or call us at 1800-424-4149 for more information, help and support. Counselors are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to provide
confidential assistance at no cost to you.
From the U.S. Dept of Labor, www.dol.gov
© 2007 Magellan Health Services, Inc.
Doc#2499—072007