Link to EAHP Statements
Section 1 – Introductory Statements and Governance: Statement – 1.1
Section 4 – Clinical Pharmacy Services: Statements – 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 4.8
Section 5 – Patient Safety and Quality Assurance: Statements – 5.1, 5.5
Abstract
Clinical pharmacy services are pivotal in optimizing medication use, improving patient outcomes, and enhancing the overall safety of healthcare systems. Across Europe, hospital pharmacists employ diverse strategies and practices tailored to their unique healthcare settings. From therapeutic drug monitoring and medication reconciliation to patient education and multidisciplinary collaboration, the roles of clinical pharmacists have expanded significantly.
However, the implementation and scope of clinical pharmacy services vary widely due to differences in healthcare infrastructure, regulatory frameworks, and resource availability among European countries. For example, some hospitals have integrated pharmacists directly into clinical teams forward rounds, ensuring real-time decision-making, while others rely more heavily on centralized clinical review systems.
This seminar will explore the landscape of clinical pharmacy services across Europe, highlighting innovative practices, such as pharmacists-led outpatient clinics. Additionally, it will address the challenges, including workforce limitations, lack of standardized training, and varying degrees of access to technology.
Learning objectives
After the session, the participant should be able to:
– Know the diversity of clinical pharmacy services.
– Identify innovative practices and tools used.
– Recognize challenges and formulate strategies to overcome barriers to implementing or expanding clinical pharmacy services.
Educational need addressed
Hospital pharmacists are increasingly engaged in clinical services to improve patient outcomes. This seminar will provide an overview of European practices. Hospital pharmacists can identify opportunities to advance clinical pharmacy services in their institutions.
Keywords
Clinical pharmacy, medication safety, medication errors.