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The Role of the Clinical Pharmacist: Need and Priority

OVER THE PAST DECADE, clinical pharmacists have served as teachers, researchers, and practitioners. The key question is, "Is there a specific role a clinical pharmacist must play?" A general answer to this question can be found in the common thread of the various definitions of the clinical pharmacist, namely, that this individual should improve the quality of patient care. This answer is simple, but complex issues often are raised about the way it should be carried out in practice. We often hear it said that a clinical pharmacist should provide clinical service; teach pharmacy students, fellow pharmacists, nurses, and physicians; and do research. The challenge is to establish priorities among these activities, particularly in training clinical pharmacists. Individual clinical pharmacists' roles will vary from situation to situation. Four factors should be considered for a proper perspective on the various alternatives and opportunities for optimal contribution to patient care. Qualifications and Interests of the Clinical Pharmacist. Pharm.D. programs differ in curriculum content and faculty expertise, leading to diversity in the education and practical training of clinical pharmacists. Furthermore, Pharm.D. students in the same program may have varying interests; some of these students may complete residencies or research fellowships that produce greater subspecialty skills. Additional experience in specific areas of practice, teaching, and research, along with a personal interest in further growth and development in a given area, should help determine the activities of a clinical pharmacist. It should be noted that most clinical pharmacists will excell only in one or two of the three areas of practice, teaching, and research. Needs of the Employer. The clinical pharmacist's activities will depend on the employer's needs. A faculty member must consider the needs of the college. Some colleges may want a productive researcher, whereas others may have a higher priority for a full-time practitioner or a teacher. Similarly, a clinical pharmacist