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ICHP Illinois Council of Health-System Pharmacists

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Professional Practice » ICHP Position Statements »

THE PHARMACIST AS A HEALTH CARE PROVIDER

The Illinois Council of Health-System Pharmacists (ICHP) supports the recognition of pharmacists as healthcare providers under the Social Security Act and by health insurance providers.

In the process of providing patient care, pharmacists provide direct medication-related care for the purpose of achieving definite and positive outcomes that improve a patient’s quality of life.  To accomplish this, pharmacists establish one-on-one relationships with patients to ensure the appropriateness of medication therapy and patients’ understanding of their therapy.  In addition, pharmacists identify and help patients overcome barriers to adherence, assist in the coordination of medical care, and ensure the continuity of patient care.  To optimize therapy, pharmacists monitor the effects of patients’ medications and make recommendations and changes when necessary.

Pharmacists participate in collaborative drug therapy management in which pharmacists enter into agreements with physicians who authorize pharmacists to select appropriate medication therapies or adjust doses based on the patient’s response to treatment.

As a member of the healthcare team, pharmacists work in concert with physicians, nurses, and other health professionals to ensure the expected outcomes of medication therapy.

Historically, recognition as a healthcare provider under the Social Security Act has been inextricably tied to direct financial compensation for services delivered.  Currently, physicians, nurse practitioners, nurse midwives, physician assistants, dietitians, and clinical social workers are recognized as healthcare providers under this act.  At present, pharmacists are primarily financially compensated for providing patient care services incident to physician services.  

4 references and their representative footnotes were deleted from the statement.

Revised 08/2010


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