A prescribing pharmacist, also known as a pharmacist prescriber, is a pharmacist who is legally allowed to issue medical prescriptions for prescription-only medicines.[1] [2]
In Brazil, the Federal Pharmacy Council (CFF) implemented Resolution CFF No. 586/2013, which allows pharmacists to prescribe medications as long as they follow specific protocols and are properly qualified. Recently, the CFF approved new resolutions that further expand these responsibilities, including the authority to prescribe hormonal contraceptives and administer injectable products. These changes aim to improve healthcare access and position pharmacists as essential professionals in therapeutic management in Brazil.[3] [4]
In Canada, the scope of practice for pharmacists varies by province, with Alberta leading the way in terms of prescribing authority. Pharmacists in Alberta can prescribe medications, manage chronic conditions, order and interpret lab tests, assess minor injuries, and administer vaccinations. Alberta has also introduced pharmacist-led clinics, which improve access to primary care and reduce unnecessary emergency room visits. Other provinces, such as Ontario, Saskatchewan, Quebec, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia, also grant pharmacists prescribing powers, but these are more limited compared to Alberta. For example, in Ontario, pharmacists can prescribe medications for minor ailments but cannot order lab tests, necessitating a visit to a doctor for further evaluation. As of August 2024, pharmacists in the province of British Columbia can prescribe medications for minor ailments, adapt prescriptions written by other prescribers (with certain limitations), as well as order lab tests for further assessment. [5] [6]
In New Zealand, pharmacists can become pharmacist prescribers after completing a Postgraduate Certificate in Pharmacist Prescribing from an accredited institution, such as the University of Auckland or the University of Otago.[7] Pharmacist prescribers in New Zealand work in collaborative healthcare environments and can prescribe medications within their defined scope of practice. The range of medicines they can prescribe includes nearly 200 different medications, which helps improve patient access to healthcare services.[8]
In Portugal, the role of pharmacists in prescribing medications is primarily limited to dispensing, with strict regulations in place. Pharmacists are significantly involved in advising patients on the use of medications, particularly generic drugs, which have become prevalent as a cost-saving measure in the healthcare system. While pharmacists can suggest the substitution of prescribed medications with generics, the final decision usually remains with the prescribing physician. There is ongoing discussion about expanding the role of pharmacists to include more autonomy in the prescription process, but such changes would require substantial legislative reform.[9] [10]
In Spain, as of early 2020s, the concept of pharmacist prescribing is in a developmental stage, with ongoing discussions about its potential benefits. Currently, pharmacists do not have the authority to prescribe medications independently as in some other countries. The Spanish General Council of Official Colleges of Pharmacists supports expanding the role of pharmacists to include prescribing certain medications, particularly for minor ailments and chronic conditions. This expansion could help alleviate the burden on primary care services and improve patient outcomes. While there is significant interest in this expansion, it is still under consideration and has not yet been fully implemented in Spain.[11] [12]
In the United Kingdom, the official term pharmacist independent prescriber is used. Pharmacist independent prescribers may prescribe any drug, including controlled drugs, with the exception of cocaine, diamorphine, and dipipanone.[13]
In the United States, regulations concerning pharmacist prescribers are made on a state-by-state basis.[14]