Pharmacy practice in Western Europe

Abstract

The practice of nearly half a million European pharmacists is critically described by analyzing the forces of change that moved pharmacy practice from being significantly product-oriented to patient-directed. Pharmacy practice models, in community, hospital and transition of care settings are described. The developments in pharmacovigilance and pharmaceutical regulatory sciences, with a focus on patient safety and patient-centred services are highlighted. Evolvements in academia, as a contributor to transformation of pharmacy practice through education and research are examined. A forward-looking vision for pharmacy practice in western Europe for 2050 is presented. It relies on supporting pharmaceutical workforce development through academia and preparedness so as to facilitate a dynamic interplay between digitalization, sustainability and citizen-centric approach that relies on multidisciplinary teamwork and networking contributing to societal needs.