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.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.