E-DRUG: Pharmacists et al
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Dear e-druggers
A few points:
1. Over the years, the Consumers' Association in the UK has tested
the quality of pharmacy advice. Though the samples have always been small
(40 to 50 pharmacies), the findings have been depressingly consistent -
alarming actually. When we did this in 1996 (I think), about half of
pharmacies tested gave incorrect advice and/or give out the wrong drugs
during 'mystery shopping' (where shoppers present a problem scenario at
pharmacies). This is in relation to over the counter medicines. So, there
seems much theory about why pharmacists should do a good job, but less
evidence that they deliver.
2. In the UK, pharmacists are to a greater or lesser degree business
men and women. They make profits from the drugs they sell. I am not sure
the incentives are in place to ensure appropriate prescribing of OTCs at
least. Nor does there seem to be sufficient training in, or support, or
incentives for, non-drug alternatives. For concordance to work (I prefer
the old fashioned word - choice) this needs to change. Same for doctors and
other health professionals.
3. Will e-commerce change the scenario forever? Whither the pharmacy
role? Or is there an opportunity for pharmacy in the new era?
All the best
David (some of my best friends are pharmacists, by the way)
David Gilbert
Fellow, Office for Public Management
252b Gray's Inn Road
London, WC1X 8JT
Tel: 0171 837 9600
Fax: 0171 837 7364
EMail dgilbert@opm.co.uk
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