The Role of the Pharmacist in Palliative Care: Results of a Survey Conducted in Australia and Canada

Abstract

A survey was conducted to determine what pharmaceutical services are provided to palliative care sites in Australia and Canada, and the pharmacist's role on the interdisciplinary team. Questionnaires were sent to 100 selected sites in each country. Questions pertained to demographics and the level of duties performed. Australian 42/76 (55.3%) and Canadian 59/69 (85.5%) sites employed palliative care pharmacists. Most Australians (83.3%) and Canadians (69.8%) worked under 20 hours/week on the palliative care service. Administrative duties and basic drug supply functions were more common in Australia, whilst Canadians had greater participation in team meetings and rounds. Medication review was the most common clinical duty; approximately 70% of respondents in each country provided specific advice on pharmacotherapy, administration, treatment, adverse effects, and incompatibilities. Education was universally important, but active participation in conferences, publication, and research was infrequent. Pharmacists in both Australia and Canada are important members of the palliative care team, and provide a similar high level of unique and valuable services to patients and their families.