Patient-centered care means creating a working partnership in which I, the pharmacist, am available when the patient needs extra time. This paradigm shift is required so the needs of the patient are first and foremost. In the pharmacy I will involve them in decisions, normalize disease and prevent complications including medication error rates. The pharmacist helps the patient to realize a desired outcome by setting small goals along the road to reaching the large ones. The pharmacist provides information in a manner which the patient can comprehend and makes sure before they leave that they really do understand the important goal of the therapy. The pharmacist provides the keys to achieving ownership of the therapy and outcomes for the patient to feel pride in. This model is on-going. The pharmacist takes time to realize perceived costs/barriers which the individual may face through an open exchange of information. Finally the pharmacist must provide follow-up you will be amazed what pivotal information will be supplied by listening and sometimes digging a little deeper.

On my behalf this model requires key professional competencies which I attained during pharmacy school but must self-maintain for patient’s health and wellness. I need to maintain knowledge of medications, disease progression, scientific studies, behavior and communication methods and practical experience. I need to periodically assess myself for lacking current knowledge. I need to also employ the easiest teaching and learning methods to help increase the patient’s understanding of health and wellness. I will strive to be a asset to the community as a professional pharmacist committed to life-long learning.