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Q.

What is the role of a pharmacist in a community, and how can he/she help a patient?

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Answers From Experts & Organizations (1)

Brian Lawson, RPhBrian Lawson, RPhSUCCESS!
Brian Lawson, RPh
Pharmacology
13 Answers
348 Helpful Votes
4 Followers
A.

I am very happy to answer this question. The pharmacist is the medication expert. We go to school for over six years, and we focus on medications and how they work. I practice as a community pharmacist, and my goal is to make sure my patients are taking their medications correctly, protect them from drug interactions, provide patient care services like medication therapy management, and help them understand their disease. Medications have a lot of side effects and can interact with foods, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbals. We should be a resource for you -- after all, we are the most accessible health care provider! In many states you can now get your flu vaccination from a pharmacist. We should be a "VIP" on your trip to the pharmacy. Get to know us on a first name basis. (We don't bite, I promise!) Always ask to speak to the pharmacist when you are picking up or dropping off a prescription; you can get some valuable information. We can advise you of side effects or answer even the most basic question of "what is this medication for?” The best part of my day is talking to patients and making a difference.

This answer should not be considered medical advice...down arrowThis answer should not be considered medical advice and should not take the place of a doctor’s visit. Please see the bottom of the page for more information or visit our Terms and Conditions.up arrow

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Read the Original Article: WebMD Ask the Pharmacist: Allergy Medications
 
 
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