Find out more about these unique pharmacists and whether you could benefit by seeing one.
You’ve probably seen your pharmacist at the counter of the pharmacy inside your supermarket or at the clinic checking prescriptions and dispensing prescriptions. However, specialty and primary clinics may also include clinical pharmacists working in the doctor’s office. They can see patients in person, and you may also make an appointment with them.
What exactly is a clinical pharmacist? And what makes them different from those in the local pharmacy?
Clinical pharmacists are trained to be specialized
In addition to the standard training that every pharmacist receives with their medications, Clinical pharmacists also receive additional training to prepare them to provide patient care in the clinical setting. Clinical pharmacists working in specialty clinics often have further training in order to be certified in fields such as cardiology, pediatrics, geriatrics as well as oncology pharmacy.
Clinical pharmacists collaborate closely with your physician
Your clinical pharmacist is a part of your team. They collaborate closely with your physician. They are able to review your medical background, take notes on your medical records, which your medical professional can look over, as well as answer your questions regarding your health problems and aid you in understanding the treatment plan you have been given.
You can schedule an appointment to see a pharmacist
Since your pharmacist is pharmacists, they’ve got an extensive understanding of medicines and medications, too. If you’re having questions regarding how to use your medication, drug interactions or any adverse effects you’re experiencing, or affordable alternatives to medications, you should consider scheduling the appointment to see your pharmacist first. In most cases, you can schedule an appointment as soon as you need it quicker than your doctor, so you’ll receive the assistance you require faster.
Amanda Sember, PharmD, RPh, Geisinger clinical pharmacist, has chosen her profession because she enjoys working with patients in a personal way. “I can get to know my patients very well,” she states, “and I can help patients tailor their treatment plan to their needs and lifestyle. Because I know the doctors they see, we can be a team to ensure every patient receives the help they require in order to keep their treatment regimen in place and maintain their health.”
Do not stop or alter the dosage of a medication by yourself
Have you experienced issues with your medication? Doctor. Sember offers some advice. “Please take the time to schedule an appointment for a brief time with a pharmacist who is a clinical specialist at your doctor’s office to discuss your concerns. We’re here to help you in your office,” she adds.
Be sure to think twice before making any changes. “Don’t stop taking a medication or change your dose on your own,” Dr. Sember says. “Discuss the matter first with your physician or physician. They’ll be able to deal with any side consequences directly. And if you decide to work together to change the treatment regimen, they’ll be able to help you make the change without risk.”
You can trust clinical pharmacists such as Dr. Sember as an integrated component of your healthcare team. “We’re right here to help you,” she states. “All you have to do is make an appointment.”