Pharmacists cooperate with doctors

22.12.2009 10:14

Pharmacists included in the National Asthma Care Guideline for the first time

For the first time, pharmacists are involved in the National Care Guideline (NVL) for asthma, the updated second edition of which is available online today. The aim of involving pharmacists is to support asthma patients in the use of inhaled medicines in cooperation with the doctor. Together with the doctor and patient, the pharmacist can identify and solve drug-related problems.

Prof. Dr. Martin Schulz, Chairman of the Drug Commission of German Pharmacists: “Many asthma patients make mistakes when inhaling, which is understandable given the drugs are difficult to use. Patients are often not aware of this. Pharmacists can check the correct use of inhalation systems and optimize them if necessary.

Patients often benefit directly from this.” This is proven by various studies on pharmaceutical care for asthma by the ABDA – Federal Association of German Pharmacists’ Associations. It makes sense for doctors and pharmacists to work together to ensure effective and safe pharmacotherapy. The doctor decides on the inhalation system. If he does not wish to exchange the prescribed inhalation system, e.g. B. as part of discount agreements, he can mark this on the prescription. If there are pharmaceutical concerns, pharmacists can also waive their obligation to supply discounted medicines in individual cases.

The NVL program is sponsored by the German Medical Association, the National Association of Statutory Health Insurance Physicians and the Association of Scientific Medical Societies. The Federal Chamber of Pharmacists has also developed guidelines and working aids for the correct use of dosage forms and especially inhalation systems.