Dear readers,
Christian Redmann introduces this issue with a reflection on pharmaceutical patient care as one of the core competencies of local pharmacists. In ordinary pharmacy practice this often means supporting patients with chronic illnesses such as asthma or diabetes; in palliative pharmacy it especially means the medication-related care of people at the end of life.
He stresses that many studies show the benefit of professional exchange between the healing professions. Efforts to establish the pharmacist “on the ward” or “on rounds” in hospitals and hospices are therefore welcomed wherever they strengthen patient care and medication safety.
At the same time, developments from 2016 and missed political opportunities have put local pharmaceutical care at risk. Redmann warns that the influence of capital-driven interests in the health market could endanger fast, safe and individualized care for palliative patients. He calls for strong support for local pharmacies and their pharmaceutical care services.
Christian Redmann
