Since the population is so diverse, and since different people have different health care needs, it stands to reason that expectations will vary. However, I feel that there are certain expectations that consumers, in general, have for their health care, and from their pharmacists. After all, the purpose of information is that it will keep them healthy and save them money. Lack of information about drugs is one of the most important reasons why almost half of all American patients do not comply with their medication regimens. NCL feels that better prescription drug information will lead to greater understanding and more efficient and safer use of medications and better compliance.
Pharmacists can play a very direct role in helping to ensure proper patient compliance.
I am now going to talk about the specific things pharmacists can do to meet consumer expectations. Oral Counseling is the primary service. Sure, you hand them a piece of paper with instructions on it, but taking a few minutes to explain that piece of paper is the unique service a pharmacist provides. Counseling patients about proper usage of medications, including how and when to take them, the importance of taking them until they are finished, even if the person feels better before they are finished, and possible side effects, will help avoid medication mistakes and improve compliance. This is especially helpful for patients with chronic diseases or for elderly consumers who take a lot of different medications at the same time.