Publication

Abstract : As the practice of pharmacy continues to move away from dispensing and move toward the wider areav of harmaceutical care, the pharmacist’s professional responsibilities will also increase. Since the implementation of Omnibus Budget Reconcilation Act 1990 (OBRA’90) in US, various studies have evaluated the impact the law has had on pharmacy counselling practices. Studies using an interview design found that 38% to 40% of patients were counseled by pharmacists. It is important for pharmacists to understand OBRA’90 and counseling requirements. If pharmacists comply with these laws then the chance of potential liability can be reduced. Many pharmacists do not realize the legal, professional, and economic consequences of ineffectively incorporating patient counseling into their practice. Beyond the risks, the benefits of patient consultation promises to improve not only the quality of life for patients but to greatly enrich the profession of pharmacy