Exploring the Evolving Role of Pharmaceutical Services in Community Pharmacies: Insights from the USA, England, and Portugal

Abstract

Chronic diseases are a leading cause of death worldwide and have a significant negative impact on public health, overall well-being, national economies, and the long-term sustainability of already burdened health systems. In addressing some of the current health challenges, the contribution of pharmacists and community pharmacies is of particular significance. Pharmacists play a vital role in the medication use process, enhancing the efficacy of pharmacological interventions and facilitating the delivery of health services. Community pharmacies occupy a key position within the healthcare system, acting as a primary point of contact with the public and frequently representing the most accessible healthcare facility for patients. In recent times, community pharmacies have undergone a process of adaptation, shifting from a narrow focus on the dispensing of medications towards a more comprehensive approach that is patient-centered and incorporates a range of healthcare services, while also prioritizing the quality of the services provided. This work aims to explore the role of pharmacists in the provision of pharmaceutical services in three countries with distinct healthcare systems, examining how these services operate, the requirements for their delivery, the associated remuneration structures, and the extent of out-of-pocket costs for patients-ultimately analyzing their impact on health outcomes.

Keywords: community pharmacy; healthcare systems; pharmaceutical care; pharmaceutical services; pharmacists.