ABSTRACT:
Pharmacy practice is experiencing a significant transformation, shifting from traditional roles focused on medication dispensing to a more advanced, patient-centered, and clinically integrated model. This review examines the changing responsibilities of pharmacists and how these evolving roles positively influence therapeutic outcomes and overall healthcare delivery. Notable progress includes the expansion of clinical pharmacy services, implementation of medication therapy management (MTM), involvement in public health activities, integration of digital technologies, and the authorization to prescribe medications in various settings. These changes have made pharmacists essential in managing chronic conditions, supporting medication adherence, preventing hospital admissions, and promoting public health. However, barriers such as restrictive regulations, lack of reimbursement structures, limited collaboration with other healthcare professionals, and low public awareness still hinder full utilization of their capabilities. Looking ahead, the profession is expected to advance through standardization of clinical services, increased participation in primary care teams, and the use of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and big data. Strengthening pharmacy practice through supportive legislation, ongoing training, and greater recognition is crucial to enhancing patient-centered care and building a more effective and accessible global healthcare system.
Cite this article:
Shashidhar, Dhanya Bappanad.Optimizing Patient Outcomes Through Evolving Roles in Pharmacy Practice: A Review of Current Trends and Future Directions. IJRPAS, October 2025; 4(10): 1-5.DOI: https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.71431/IJRPAS.2025.41001
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