What do patients want from their pharmacist?

Abstract

I recently attended a conference where a ‘representative’ patient was asked to talk about what patients want from the pharmacist. The reply was a very touching and honest one. One which I felt should be shared with the readers of our Journal. Patients who come to the pharmacy for medication are people who are unwell. In some cases it may be mild but in others their condition may be very serious and having a significantly negative impact on their lives and those of their loved ones. Sometimes it may not be the patients themselves, but their carers who interact with the pharmacist, and they too could be passing through a difficult time. Hence the primary requirement was for the pharmacist to be kind and approachable and not just a person who is an ‘expert’ and instructs on the use of medication. The pharmacist needs to put the patient at ease, and address their fears and concerns. Some patients who are going through very difficult times may be scared and anxious and need understanding and reassurance.