Advancing pharmacist prescribing privileges: Is it time?

Abstract

ObjectivesThe rising cost of health care, impact of the aging population, physician shortages, and access to care issues have stressed the U.S. health care system. There is no single solution to combat the complexity of issues concerning the health care system; however, there are potential solutions, such as expanding the role of pharmacists, in efforts to alleviate some stress. Advancing the scope of pharmacy practice with the inclusion of autonomous prescribing authority may enhance access to health care if barriers to pharmacist-provided patient care are removed. Understanding the perceptions of pharmacists, providers, and patients regarding the expansion of prescribing privileges may assist in this effort. SummaryCollaborative practice agreements between physicians and pharmacists have fostered the expansion of the role of pharmacists; however, autonomous prescriptive authority for pharmacists would promote access to vaccines, naloxone for opioids, hormonal contraceptives, travel medications, tobacco cessation medications, and more. Before experiencing the integration of a pharmacist into their practice, an initial concern of physicians consisted of not fully understanding the role of pharmacists. Additional concerns in advancing the pharmacy profession include liability, provider-provider communication, payment for services, as well as training and inadequate infrastructure. ConclusionAmong the states that have expanded prescriptive authority for pharmacists, experiences among stakeholders have been positive. As with any major change, it will take time to implement proper structures and processes, with continuous revisions to address barriers and challenges that may arise. There will be a need for training as well as educating various stakeholders about the changes in the scope of pharmacy practice. Leveraging the experience of states that already have prescriptive authority protocols in place can aid in this endeavor. Limiting pharmacists by not providing prescriptive authority would not be a good alternative—tapping into an underused resource is better than reinventing the wheel.