An analysis of pharmaceutical services in Utah extended care facilities

The Social Security Amendments of 1965 have created new opportunities and challenges of members of the health team to provide their professional services. Various pharmaceutical services are sought to meet the standards of the Medical Program, however the man objectives are centered in utilizing the pharmacist's knowledge and experience in providing and improving patient care and safety. The pharmacist, when functioning as a consultant to an extended care facility, can contribute to patient care through: 1. Recognizing the need of his services in patient care. 2. Becoming aware of means to enhance the quality of patient care through his services. 3. Taking an active part in maintaining and expanding his role as a consultant. Utah extended care facilities are presently receiving pharmaceutical services through their pharmacist consultants. The rendered services are varied and will continue to vary until functions and role expectations of the pharmacist and extended care facility are understood. The involvement of the consultant in extended care facility service and guidance programs is very limited in terms of ideological and pragmatic desires and standards, which in turn is reflected in the quality of service to patient and facility. Recognizing the need, becoming aware, and initiating action are the keys to successful pharmacy consultant program for an extended care facility.