Keynote 2: The Hospital Pharmacist 2020: a changed profile

ACPE UPN: 0475-0000-14-002-L04-P. A knowledge based activity.

Abstract

The role of the hospital pharmacist has changed in the last few decades and moved from medicine – orientated to patient -orientated. The needs and expectations of patients have also been subject to change: Internet and social media allows patients to become more aware of alternatives, which also pose risks and challenges to health professionals. Therapies have become more complex and also personalised. Physicians are no longer able to have an overview of all aspects of the therapy. Hospital pharmacists have been therefore required to adapt their profile to this changing world by developing communication skills and social competencies. Knowledge about pharmaceuticals will in future be the context of our profession but not the only goal. Hospital pharmacists have to become the bridge between medicines, their individualised production, the patient and their diseases. For the best outcome of the patient, the responsibility of hospital pharmacists will not end at the fence of the hospital.

Teaching Goals:

• to identify the needs of the patients in the future,
• to explain the historical development of the hospital pharmacist profession,
• to discuss why the profession has to change.

Learning Objectives:

After the presentation the participant should be able:

• to reflect upon his/her role in the hospital,
• to understand why changes are necessary,
• to begin the process of change.