Transition of Clinical Pharmacy from Theory to Practice

Abstract

Since the 1960s, the world has witnessed a significant development in the role of clinical pharmacists, as the pharmacy profession has shifted toward improving drug treatment, promoting health, and preventing diseases. Clinical pharmacists are in high demand around the world and are now recognized as indispensable members of health care teams. Key competencies required in a clinical pharmacist include patient care, medical knowledge, collaboration with health care teams, professionalism, delivery of exceptional care, and ensuring the safe use of medications. Modern competency-based pharmacy education focuses on specific outcomes that graduates are expected to achieve, in alignment with professional standards. This curriculum prepares students to excel in changing and evolving health care delivery, ultimately leading to improved patient outcomes and more efficient health care delivery. Therefore, the future of clinical pharmacy looks bright as pharmacists play vital roles in patient care using advanced technology and personalized medicine. Collaboration with other health care professionals is also key to improving outcomes. Therefore, pharmacy education must be changed by focusing on clinical skills, combined professional training, and career development. Challenges such as regulations, differences in practices, and lack of recognition must be addressed through collaboration between health stakeholders, educators, and policy makers. This review article aims to explore the evolving role of clinical pharmacists in the health care system, highlighting their key competencies, the impact of competency-based education, and future prospects for the clinical pharmacy profession in the context of advancing technology and personalized medicine.