Advancing pharmacy practice through research: a 2004 perspective

Abstract

Objective: To share the current reflections, perspectives, and recommendations of the Pharmacy Practice Research Roundtable about a research agenda for pharmacy practice in the United States.

Data sources: Peer-reviewed medical literature, national and international developments relating to health care, laws and regulations affecting pharmacy practice, information provided by invited guests, and personal experiences of roundtable members.

Summary: Current realities with the potential to affect pharmacy practice relate to strategies for pursuing pharmacy practice research. Emerging roles and activities of pharmacists in health systems and the community are identified in this article. Based on consideration of the realities, strategies, and new roles, priority areas for pharmacy practice research are identified. Recommendations for research emphasis include the following: (1) define medication therapy management services that relate to medication safety, improved management of chronic disease, and implementation of a Medicare ambulatory drug benefit; (2) evaluate pharmacy practice models from external and internal perspectives; (3) differentiate patient groups based on their need for, access to, and affinity for pharmacist services; (4) define achievable roles and responsibilities for patients in medication use; (5) provide a deeper understanding about the professional workforce in pharmacy; (6) examine the gap between academic practice models and actual practice and test strategies to reduce the gap; and (7) evaluate the applicability to the United States of evolving pharmacy practice activities in other countries.

Conclusion: A national pharmacy practice research agenda should be pursued in the context of those issues that are influencing health care.