Medical care and drug-related problems: Do doctors and pharmacists speak the same language?

Int J Clin Pharm. 2016 Apr;38(2):191-4. doi: 10.1007/s11096-016-0249-x. Epub 2016 Jan 21.

Abstract

Optimal communication between physicians and pharmacists is important for patient care. However, pharmacists and doctors do not always seem to understand each other. They have been professionalized differently, and do not always speak the same language. Especially in the areas of prescribing, medication review, and medicine use, there can be differences in views. This contribution clarifies some essential concepts that doctors and pharmacists use. Thus we hope that our commentary contributes to a better understanding of each other's role and the importance of interprofessional cooperation for the benefit of the patient.

Keywords: Concepts; Drug-related problems; Medication errors; Medicine; Pharmacy; Terminology.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Communication*
  • Cooperative Behavior
  • Drug-Related Side Effects and Adverse Reactions / diagnosis
  • Drug-Related Side Effects and Adverse Reactions / prevention & control
  • Humans
  • Interprofessional Relations*
  • Language
  • Medication Errors / prevention & control*
  • Patient Care / methods
  • Patient Care / standards*
  • Pharmacists / standards*
  • Pharmacy Service, Hospital / methods
  • Pharmacy Service, Hospital / standards
  • Physicians / standards*