The pharmacy code of ethics is an important guide to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the patients. The pharmaceutical industry has a professional code of ethics which all pharmacists are expected to follow. I feel this code of ethics is currently attainable. The code of ethics does not expect pharmacists to go above and beyond the societal expectations. There are 8 principles that make up the pharmacists code of ethics.
The first principle states that a pharmacist respects the covenantal relationship between patients and pharmacists. (American Pharmacists Association, Code of Ethics) This first principle implies that a pharmacist should have the patients’ wellbeing in mind. The pharmacist should make sure the patient I getting the most out of their care. A patient should be able to put their trust in a pharmacist. This in my opinion is the principle that all pharmacist should base their practice off of. The second principle states that a pharmacist promotes the good of every patient in a caring, compassionate and confidential manner. (American Pharmacists Association, Code of Ethics) This principle backs up my opinion that this code of ethics is currently attainable. In society when seeing any kind of health care professional it is expected that you are caring above all confidential. Patients should feel comfortable when disclosing medical information to you. Society sees health care professional s as if they are on a higher ethical plane. Society places ultimate trust in them.
The third principle says that a pharmacist respects the autonomy and dignity of each patient. (American Pharmacists Association, Code of Ethics) A pharmacist should understand and except the cultural and religious differences of patients. I feel it is also the pharmacists’ duty to answer honestly any questions a patient may have in regards to treatments or medications. Forth is the principle that explains that a pharmacist
Cited: American Pharmasists Association. "Code of Ethics." American Pharmacists Association. N.p., 27 Oct. 1994. Web. 24 Sept. 2013. Goree, Keith, Nicholas Manias, and Jane E. Till. "Chapter 18." Ethics Applied. 6.5th ed. N.p.: Pearson, n.d. 533-565. Print. Kim, Katie. "Pharmacist Denies Meds Because Religion." KRQE. N.p., 28 June 2012. Web. 29 Sept. 2013.