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LETTERS: Joe Neary Clinical medication review by pharmacists would improve care BMJ 2002; 324: 548 [Full text]

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An integrated approach

Ryan M. Cassity   (2 March 2002)

An integrated approach 2 March 2002
Ryan M. Cassity, Pharmacy Practice Resident Mayo Clinic, 55901 Send response to journal: Re: An integrated approach	As a pharmacy practice resident in a thriving medical institution I am pleased to read the letter titled "Clinical medication review by pharmacists would improve care". As medication regimens become more complex and with the rapidity of new drug approvals, physicians are spending more and more time dealing with clinical issues that could be delegated to other healthcare professionals. The current education curriculum of the pharmacist has drastically changed over the last several years. The Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) curriculum is a very clinical, patient-oriented education lasting. In addition, Pharm.D. graduates can continue their educational experience by participating in residency programs lasting one to two years. Clinically, I believe these highly trained pharmacist should contribute to the medication review and decision process. We are not trained to diagnosis, nor do we want to diagnosis, but we are highly skilled in the management of patient medication regimens. In the future, I hope the medical community will take advantage of our services and understand that we are motivated to contribute to the care and outcome of patients. Thank you, Ryan M. Cassity, Pharm.D. Pharmacy Practice Resident Mayo Medical Center