Q&A: Getting Started with Point-of-Care Testing in Community Pharmacy

Opinion
Video

A panelist discusses how medication synchronization programs are essential for implementing point-of-care testing by making half of prescription volume nonurgent, allowing pharmacists to delegate work and free up time for clinical services.

Q&A – Getting Started with Implementation

Main Discussion Topics:

  • Initial steps for implementing point-of-care testing in community pharmacy
  • Time management and workflow integration
  • Pharmacist acceptance and adoption process

Key Points for Physicians:

  • State regulations for pharmacy-based testing vary significantly; consultation with board of pharmacy is essential
  • Pharmacies handling up to 900 prescriptions daily successfully integrate testing without additional staffing
  • Medication synchronization programs create necessary capacity for clinical services

Notable Insights:

  • The greatest initial challenge is often pharmacist comfort with new clinical roles
  • Pharmacists typically report high satisfaction with expanded clinical services once these are implemented
  • Delegation to pharmacy technicians is essential for successful integration

Clinical Significance:

Implementing point-of-care testing requires initial workflow redesign and staff training but creates sustainable clinical service opportunities that enhance professional satisfaction while improving patient access to care.

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