ABSTRACT
Surveys of public opinion have consistently ranked pharmacy as a highly respected profession. In general, pharmacists are respected for their knowledge, integrity, compassion, ability to provide “down-to-earth” relevant information about medications, and overall friendly, courteous demeanor. In an outpatient setting, pharmacists often represent the last professional seen by a patient prior to implementing a medical treatment. Having the last interaction affords an opportunity to prevent problems overlooked by other health care professionals. As opposed to the respect shown to the pharmacy profession by many, pharmacists may be viewed by some as obstructionists. Waiting in long lines to pick up expensive medications, for which the insurance company will not authorize coverage, may lead to patient frustration. Frustration intensifies if the prescription is not ready or if the prescriber does not authorize the refill. Patients who perceive that a “drug” is the only answer or the chief solution to their condition may view the pharmacist as a roadblock to successful procurement of their “miracle.” Unfortunately, in many of these circumstances, the pharmacist is the one who is blamed as the responsible party.
