This should be done in such a way that the patients are fully able to understand the directions for taking their medication, potential side effects and interactions, and how to maximize the benefits of the medication. It is important to present a clear and concise health message to the patient. Therefore, it is necessary to be adequately equipped with good communication skills. The need for Patient Counselling Skills Pharmacist are learning to be vigilant and critical when reviewing a patient's medication records or when interviewing a patient to identify drug-related problems. When we identify current or potential problems, we feel that we are truly fulfilling our potential and utilizing our specialized knowledge base.
Counselling is more than just providing information or lecturing to the patient.
Counselling means the pharmacist must have communication skills to help the patient get the most benefit from his or her medication. With the development of pharmaceutical care, it is now clear, more than ever before, that patient counselling is a crucial part of pharmacy practice. In order to work with patients to provide pharmaceutical care, pharmacists must first and foremost be available. That means they should be seen to be available through being visible to the patients in the pharmacy by being at the counter or out from behind the dispensary as much as possible, rather than further back at the dispensary. This atmosphere should be warm and comforting rather than cold and clinical.