The Role of Clinical Pharmacists in Your Healthcare Journey and how they improve your care.
When it comes to your health, having a dedicated team of professionals by your side is essential. Among these professionals is the Clinical Pharmacist, an integral part of your care team at Think Whole Person Healthcare. While many people associate pharmacists with the person behind the counter at the drugstore, their role extends far beyond simply dispensing medications. So what are Clinical Pharmacists and the history of this profession? Let’s explore the fascinating history of pharmacy, the diverse specializations within the field, and how Think’s Clinical Pharmacists work to optimize your medication management and overall well-being
The Evolution of Pharmacy.
The roots of pharmacy can be traced back to ancient civilizations, with evidence of pharmaceutical practices dating as far back as 1,500 BC in Egypt. Paleopharmacologists have uncovered over 1,000 sheets of papyrus detailing hundreds of plant-derived medication recipes, showcasing the early expertise of apothecaries and chemists who worked alongside healers and priests to treat the sick.
Fast forward to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and the Industrial Revolution brought about significant advancements in pharmaceutical science. Increased technical sophistication allowed for the purification of natural materials and the synthesis of organic chemicals, leading to groundbreaking discoveries like insulin and penicillin. Today, pharmacists play vital roles in drug manufacturing, research, and direct patient care, with the opportunity to specialize in 13 board-certified fields, including ambulatory care, cardiology, oncology, and more.
Clinical Pharmacy at Think.
The Clinical Pharmacists at think hold doctorate degrees in pharmacology and often specialize in medical areas that align with their passions. They collaborate closely with our physicians, specialists, and advanced practice providers to ensure that your medications are tailored to yield the best possible outcomes for your unique situation.
What services do our Clinical Pharmacists provide?
Comprehensive Medication Reviews
Our Clinical Pharmacists work hand-in-hand with your Primary Care physician, specialists, and other providers to conduct thorough medication reviews. As experts on each medication’s active ingredients and appropriate treatment approaches, they ensure that your prescriptions are the most suitable options for your specific circumstances, optimizing your therapy and minimizing potential risks.
Optimizing Medication Timing
Did you know that the timing of your medication can significantly impact its effectiveness? For example, atorvastatin, a common cholesterol medication, works best when taken in the evening when your body’s cholesterol-making enzymes are most active. Think’s Clinical Pharmacists collaborate with you and your doctors to develop a medication schedule that maximizes the benefits of your prescription drugs, ensuring you get the most out of your treatment plan.
Exploring Alternative Medications
One of the key advantages of working with our Clinical Pharmacists is their commitment to finding the best medication options for your individual case. They stay up-to-date on the latest drugs and their interactions, allowing them to recommend alternative treatment paths if you’re not achieving the desired results. This personalized approach ensures that you and your doctor have access to the most current and effective solutions available.
Preventing Adverse Interactions
For patients managing multiple health conditions, taking several medications simultaneously can pose risks if those medications don’t interact well with one another. Our Clinical Pharmacists possess a deep understanding of medication interactions and work to help you avoid adverse effects. In some cases, they may consolidate your medication regimen by identifying drugs that can treat multiple conditions, simplifying your treatment plan and reducing potential complications.
Ensuring Cost Savings
At think, we recognize that medications can be a significant expense, even with insurance coverage. Our Clinical Pharmacists go the extra mile to help you save money on your prescriptions. They collaborate with your doctor, insurance company, and retail pharmacy to secure the lowest possible prices, whether that means prescribing a different brand of medication or adjusting dosages (e.g., three 100mg pills instead of one 300mg pill) to optimize cost-effectiveness without compromising quality of care.
Personalized Patient Consultations
Some patients, such as those with uncontrolled diabetes or multiple health conditions, require more frequent support from their healthcare team. Our Clinical Pharmacists work directly with your physician to provide continuity of care and offer recommendations on medication adjustments tailored to your needs. In the case of uncontrolled diabetes, for example, you may benefit from a collaborative team that includes Physicians, Clinical Pharmacists, Pharmacy Technicians, Care Coordinators, Diabetic Educators, Dietitians, and Social Workers—all working together to design a treatment plan that gets your blood sugar levels back on track as efficiently as possible.
The Think Whole Person Healthcare Difference
At think, our commitment to your well-being goes beyond simply treating symptoms. Our Clinical Pharmacists incorporate this philosophy by taking a holistic approach to your medication management, considering factors like efficacy, safety, cost, and your individual circumstances. They ensure that your care is coordinated, comprehensive, and centered around you by partnering with our physicians and specialists.
Our Clinical Pharmacists are the unsung heroes of your healthcare journey, working behind the scenes to optimize your medication therapy and support your overall health. At Think Whole Person Healthcare, our highly trained Clinical Pharmacists bring their expertise, compassion, and dedication to every patient interaction. From conducting medication reviews and preventing adverse interactions to exploring cost-saving alternatives and providing personalized consultations, they play an indispensable role in helping you achieve your best possible outcomes.
To learn more about how our Clinical Pharmacy services can benefit you, visit our service page at https://thinkhealthcare.org/services/clinical-pharmacy/ or speak with your Primary Care physician at Think Whole Person Healthcare. Experience the difference of having a world-class Clinical Pharmacist as part of your care team and unlock the full potential of your healthcare journey today.
Think is a primary healthcare organization dedicated to keep you healthy through preventative care and treatment for a wide range of medical conditions.
To learn more about the complete list of our healthcare services, visit our Services page online and meet your think provider by visiting our Meet Your Doctor page. Visit our self-scheduling page or give us a call at 402.506.9000.