MDs reluctant to expand role of pharmacists

I'm disapointed but not surprised regarding the results of this vote. It will be even more interesting once the first Alberta pharmacists are given the ability to prescribe beyond the current modification and adaptation of physician's prescriptions.

From the Globe and Mail:
A majority of doctors attending a convention of the Canadian Medical Association in Vancouver don't support an expanded role by pharmacists to manage and monitor medication when patients are cared for by a team of health professionals.

Fifty-six per cent of 268 doctors voted against giving pharmacists a larger role within such teams.

Many of the delegates at the meeting say doctors should lead a collaborative care team and they should be the ones prescribing medication.

The Canadian Pharmacists Association says an expanded role for pharmacists is an international trend that includes primary health-care reform. ...more