E-DRUG: Different models of pharmacy (14)
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I have been following this discussion with interest. Over 10 years ago I
became involved with an Australian-Indian project based in Southern
India to establish clinical pharmacy there. My role was to assist with
the establishment of a teaching programme in two schools of pharmacy
based in Mysore and Ooty. I have maintained my contact especially with
Mysore where a programme is well established, and more recently with
Manipal which is staffed largely with those trained in Mysore. There
have been some very positive contributions by graduates especially in
the field of pharmacovigilance where pharmacists have attained
government recognition and funding for their role, there has been WHO
support. Graduates have also moved into post grad and undergrad
education roles (programmes are of variable quality). There are also
developments which I find concerning as some graduates and pharmacy
departments have developed clinical trial centres (a major growth area
in India). I am unsure of the safety and value of these to the local
people. Many have moved to other countries as clinical qualifications
are internationally valued.
I believe there is a very important role for clinical pharmacy in all
countries but more especially in those where improving medication use
can have a significant impact on peoples health and well being. It is
important as some have stressed, that education and information is
appropriate for 'best practice' local medication use. While access to
supply is of major importance, ensuring the appropriate and safe use of
the medication is I consider of equal importance. Clinical pharmacy
training has much to offer and appears largely unrecognised.
Ruth Ferguson, Clinical Pharmacist,
Dunedin Hospital
New Zealand.