Social Pharmacy
Social Pharmacy will help develop a set of values consistent with what is expected of pharmacists and healthcare professionals regarding the way they act and think. An important task for pharmacists is to use their knowledge to ensure the rational use of drugs.
Pharmacists who work in pharmacies must have authorization as a healthcare professional. The role of a healthcare worker requires knowledge of drugs and knowledge of people in society. This includes understanding how people act in relation to drug use. Healthcare professionals require knowledge about the society we live in, the health service and the statutory framework in which this professional practice exists. Teaching in this topic will focus on the pharmacy service, drugs, legislation and the pharmacist.
After completing the subject, the student is able to:
Knowledge:
- account for how todays pharmacy service in Norway works and show insight into pharmacy legislation, with particular emphasis on the establishment and management of pharmacies
- be aware of the advantages and disadvantages of randomized, double-blind controlled studies and have an understanding of what the placebo effect is
- know the relevant legislation and legal basis governing the practice of services, with special focus on classification, marketing authorization, clinical trials and sales of pharmaceuticals, traditional plant-based pharmaceuticals, natural/herbal remedies and supplements
- account for communication as a professional worker
- show insight regarding ethical theories and concepts that are central to professional practice within healthcare
- be aware of the concept of self-care as well as the principles of self-care related to certain non-prescription drugs and how they work
- show insight into the rational use of drugs, adherence and possible causes regarding the incorrect use of pharmaceuticals
- account for health and disease perception and be aware of different perceptions pertaining to drugs
Skills:
- show insight and reflection regarding the role of pharmacists and pharmacies in the health service, with special focus on the pharmacist as a health professional
- express themselves clearly when writing and speaking to both professionals and others
- answer, discuss and reflect on social pharmacy issues by employing theoretical knowledge
General competence:
- show insight in simple searches and various search engines to find scientific articles and other relevant sources, including assessing the reliability of these sources
- be aware of the organization, management level and structure of decision-making within the health and social sector
- be aware of how pharmacoeconomics and drug politics affect priorities within the health services
- be able to undertake academic writing and use appropriate sources and references