Addressing the Opioid Pandemic with Retail Pharmacists Involved Collaborative Care

Authors: Dr. Nirlepkumar Patel

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15054585

Short DOI: https://doi.org/g8837k

Country: USA

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Abstract: The opioid crisis has emerged as a global public health emergency, characterized by the widespread misuse of prescription opioids, the proliferation of illicit synthetic opioids, and an alarming rise in opioid-related overdoses. Addressing this epidemic requires a multidisciplinary approach integrating healthcare professionals, community organizations, and policymakers. Retail pharmacists, as highly accessible healthcare providers, play a critical role in this collaborative model by leveraging their expertise in medication management, patient education, and harm reduction strategies. This article explores the significant contributions of retail pharmacists in mitigating the opioid crisis through education on safe opioid use, monitoring prescription practices, providing access to naloxone, promoting non-opioid pain management alternatives, and connecting patients to addiction treatment services. Additionally, the article emphasizes the importance of integrating pharmacists into multidisciplinary care teams and engaging them in advocacy and policy efforts to promote systemic change. By recognizing the pivotal role of retail pharmacists, healthcare systems can create a more effective, community-centered response to the opioid epidemic.

Keywords: Opioid Crisis, Retail Pharmacists, Collaborative Care, Harm Reduction, Addiction Treatment

Paper Id: 232255

Published On: 2021-08-03

Published In: Volume 9, Issue 4, July-August 2021

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