Expert: Pharmacy Model Continues to Expand Professional Boundaries | McKesson ideaShare

The landscape of pharmacy is undergoing a significant transformation, moving away from rigid regulatory frameworks towards a more dynamic standard-of-care model. This shift represents a pivotal moment for pharmacists, empowering them to practice at the full extent of their education and training while delivering high-quality patient care, according to Brooklyn Morgan, PharmD, director of state policy at the National Alliance of State Pharmacy Associations, in an interview at McKesson ideaShare, held from July 10 to 13, 2025, in Nashville, Tennessee.

Traditionally, pharmacy has been constrained by strict guidelines that explicitly defined permissible actions. However, the emerging standard-of-care approach mirrors practices long established in other health care professions, offering pharmacists greater flexibility and professional autonomy. This evolution allows practitioners to more comprehensively address patient needs, leveraging their extensive medical knowledge and clinical expertise. Central to this transformation is the critical role of state pharmacy associations. These professional organizations serve as key advocates, driving meaningful changes in pharmacy practice, providing advanced educational opportunities, and amplifying the collective voice of pharmacists. Professionals are strongly encouraged to actively engage with their state associations, becoming members and participating in discussions that shape the future of their profession.

As regulatory models become more nuanced, technology emerges as a crucial enabler. Interoperability between health care providers becomes increasingly important, allowing pharmacists to access comprehensive patient information and collaborate more effectively with other healthcare team members. This technological integration supports the broader goal of delivering more personalized, holistic patient care. The changing landscape demands continuous learning and adaptability. Pharmacists must stay current with evolving educational standards and regulatory frameworks, utilizing professional networks and technological tools to maintain competence and provide optimal patient care.

"Pharmacy has been kind of stuck in this bright-line regulation where things are lined out as to what they can and can't do," Morgan said. "So this movement towards the standard-of-care model really allows pharmacists to practice at the top of their education and training and provide the highest quality of patient care."

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