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Pharmacists Expand Clinical Footprint Across U.S. Hospitals

Introduction

Pharmacists have long been pivotal in healthcare, but a recent survey reveals an impressive evolution of their roles in U.S. hospitals. According to the 2024 ASHP National Survey, health-system pharmacists are stepping beyond traditional roles and becoming integral members of clinical teams, directly influencing patient care in significant ways.

Growth in Clinical Involvement

The ASHP survey indicates that over 75% of hospitals now employ pharmacists to provide direct care to inpatients. This marks a notable increase compared to a decade ago and highlights a shift in how pharmacists are viewed within the healthcare ecosystem. Key areas where pharmacists are making an impact include critical care units (68.5%), oncology (56.9%), and emergency departments (46.5%). Paul W. Abramowitz, the CEO of ASHP, emphasized that these findings showcase the growing recognition of pharmacy professionals' roles in healthcare settings.

Anticoagulation Therapy Management

One of the more remarkable statistics from the survey is the increase in hospitals that allow pharmacists to manage anticoagulant dosing. In 2024, 63.2% of hospitals reported that pharmacists routinely managed these critical dosing tasks, up from 54.7% in 2019. This statistic underscores the growing reliance on pharmacists to ensure safe and effective treatment, particularly in high-stakes situations where medication management can drastically affect patient outcomes.

Pharmacists in Outpatient Settings

Pharmacists are also becoming more prevalent in outpatient clinics, with nearly 72% of hospitals deploying pharmacists to help manage chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension. They have the authority to monitor lab results, adjust medications, and even authorize refills, allowing for an enhanced level of care that alleviates some of the pressures faced by physicians. As healthcare providers continue to face staffing shortages, the involvement of pharmacists in outpatient settings is increasingly viewed as a vital asset.

Surge in Emergency Department Roles

The role of pharmacists in emergency departments has surged, with nearly half of hospitals now utilizing pharmacists in these high-pressure environments. The increase from just 10.9% in 2011 to nearly 50% today underscores the critical need for quick and accurate medication decisions in emergency scenarios. This trend not only highlights the adaptability of pharmacists but also emphasizes their essential contributions to patient care.

Addressing Drug Shortages

As pharmacy roles grow, pharmacists face the pressing issue of managing drug and staffing shortages. In large hospitals, pharmacy staff dedicate as much as 66 hours each week to mitigate these shortages. As noted by Michael Ganio, senior director of pharmacy practice and quality at ASHP, this commitment can require resources equivalent to 1.5 full-time employees, reflecting the critical staffing challenges across healthcare.

The Role of Pharmacy Technicians

Pharmacy technicians are also stepping into more advanced roles, supporting patient care and ensuring operational efficiency. Tasks previously limited to pharmacists, such as conducting medication histories and overseeing compliance with drug pricing regulations, are increasingly being performed by technicians. However, a significant percentage of hospitals report shortages of experienced pharmacy technicians, indicating an urgent need for workforce development in this area.

Commitment to Workforce Development

Recognizing the challenges within the field, ASHP launched The Pharmacy Technician Society to enhance the profession's advancement and retention. Furthermore, their public campaign,