[Pharmacist care in the Brazilian primary health care system]

Abstract

This paper presents a review and analysis of Pharmacist Care as an integrated part of the Primary Health Care System, in which quality use of medicines is directly related to quality health service and to elements for its evaluation. In our country the Basic Health Units represent the main entrance to the public health care system. The pharmaceutical services however are still linked to the care model centered in medical consultation and emergency care, with the pharmacy just satisfying their needs. Provide orientation to the users of a Basic Unit pharmacy is almost impossible because nearly all sore spots of the health system end up at the pharmacy as the final step in the care process. The solution of the problem will not be easy if the present structure of the service is maintained. Great part of the pressure resulting from the demand does not depend on the health service itself but on inclusive social policies with direct impact on the health conditions of the population. Rational use of medicines from the prescriber to the user is fundamental in this specific environment.