Abstract
Bans on the sale of tobacco products in pharmacies allow pharmacies to provide health information and services without the conflict of interest posed by concurrent tobacco sales. As health care providers, pharmacies are trusted sources of information for patients. The existence of tobacco products in pharmacies is contrary to their mission as a health care entity. By May 2012, a full 27 Massachusetts municipalities had banned the sale of tobacco products in health care institutions, including pharmacies. These bans covered 30% of the state's population.Key teaching points: • Pharmacies play a key role in dispensing health advice.• Pharmacies are the only remaining health care institutions in Massachusetts that continue to sell tobacco.• Tobacco products in pharmacies send a conflicting message and are likely to discourage smokers who are trying to quit.• Bans on the sale of tobacco in pharmacies enjoy broad support in Massachusetts.• No legal challenges or compliance problems relating to banning the sale of tobacco in pharmacies have been reported in Massachusetts.
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