The exchange of ideas reassured me that my practice was on the right track. My approach to my patients changed dramatically. Before the program, my focus tended to be on the specific product for the specific condition. This program has helped me to view the patient globally. I have changed my focus to helping patients address their own concerns about their health.
Patients appreciate the extra effort on our part.
At first, they were cautious because this has not been an area where pharmacists have traditionally been involved. The largest challenge that I have faced is time management. Pharmaceutical care is very time intensive, especially in the developmental stages. The provision of these services has to be balanced with dispensing presently since there is currently no alternative reimbursement mechanism. There is no secret to gaining a patient's trust.