First, pharmacists will need move from their predominant attachment to the product and a dispensing only mentality. The dispensing of medications is important to patients' health but it is a technical activity and can therefore be automated. Thankfully for pharmacists, dispensing is not all that patients need. Pharmacists are uniquely positioned to provide pharmaceutical care. The high level of computerization in U.S. pharmacies can greatly facilitate the documentation of this care.
Documentation is essential for reimbursement.
There is growing evidence to believe that patients, third parties and pharmaceutical companies are willing to pay for these services. Patients will pay cash for these services. At least three groups are currently working with cash customers for reimbursement of services. Another Ohio based company has developed a community pharmacy software program to provide and market compliance packaging for an additional fee. These businesses are most successfully marketed to the adult children of the patients who will receive the care.