Read the article in the required reading, “The Medicine Shoppe v. Loretta Lynch, et al.: Pharmacists and prescribing physicians are equally liable” as well as the Pharmacists Code of Ethics at the following link: Discuss the following: Length: Submit a 3-page paper, using headings to correspond with each question in the assignment. Purchase the answer to view it
Title: The Legal and Ethical Responsibilities of Pharmacists in Prescribing Medications
Introduction:
The case of The Medicine Shoppe v. Loretta Lynch, et al. raises critical questions regarding the legal and ethical responsibilities of pharmacists in prescribing medications. This paper aims to analyze the implications of this case and examine the relevant provisions of the Pharmacists Code of Ethics in relation to pharmacist liability.
I. Analysis of The Medicine Shoppe v. Loretta Lynch, et al. Case:
The Medicine Shoppe v. Loretta Lynch, et al. is a landmark case that highlights the question of liability for pharmacists in medication prescribing. This case involved a dispute wherein a pharmacist dispensed a prescribed medication to a patient, while the prescribing physician had previously been disciplined for prescribing large quantities of Schedule II opioids. The patient subsequently experienced adverse effects and sued both the pharmacist and the prescribing physician.
The court held that both the pharmacist and the physician were equally liable in cases where a pharmacist could have reasonably foreseen the harm caused by dispensing medications prescribed by a physician with a history of irresponsible prescription practices. The court’s decision established the principle that pharmacists have a duty to exercise due diligence in identifying potentially harmful prescriptions, highlighting their shared responsibility with prescribing physicians in ensuring patient safety.
II. Pharmacists Code of Ethics:
The Pharmacists Code of Ethics is a guideline that sets forth the professional responsibilities of pharmacists in adhering to ethical practices. It provides insights into the legal and ethical expectations placed on pharmacists in their role as medication experts. An examination of the code reveals several key provisions that substantiate the legal and ethical responsibilities of pharmacists in prescribing medications.
A. Provision 1: Primacy of Patient Welfare:
This provision emphasizes the pharmacist’s commitment to promoting the welfare and interests of patients. Pharmacists are expected to prioritize patient safety and well-being above all else, making it imperative for them to exercise their professional judgment in assessing prescriptions for potential harm. The Medicine Shoppe case underscores these expectations by emphasizing the legal duty of pharmacists to act in the best interest of their patients and to prevent harm through appropriate prescription screening.
B. Provision 2: Autonomy and Respect for Patients:
The Code of Ethics establishes that pharmacists should respect the autonomy and dignity of patients. This implies that pharmacists must consider patients’ individual circumstances, including their medical history and potential contraindications, when dispensing medications. By adhering to this provision, pharmacists play a crucial role in ensuring patients are fully informed about their medications and the associated risks, thus promoting patient autonomy in healthcare decision-making. The court’s decision in The Medicine Shoppe case acknowledges the importance of this provision by holding pharmacists accountable for dispensing potentially harmful medications.
C. Provision 6: Collaboration with Other Healthcare Professionals:
This provision highlights the importance of collaborative relationships between pharmacists and other healthcare professionals, including physicians. Pharmacists are expected to work closely with physicians to optimize medication therapy and prevent harmful drug interactions. The court’s decision in The Medicine Shoppe case reinforces this provision by recognizing the shared responsibility between pharmacists and prescribing physicians for ensuring patient safety. It underscores the importance of effective communication and collaboration between these practitioners to minimize the risk of adverse events.
III. Conclusion:
The case of The Medicine Shoppe v. Loretta Lynch, et al. has significant implications for the legal and ethical responsibilities of pharmacists in prescribing medications. The court’s decision establishes pharmacists’ duty to exercise due diligence in identifying potentially harmful prescriptions and emphasizes their shared responsibility with prescribing physicians in ensuring patient safety. The Pharmacists Code of Ethics aligns with these expectations, highlighting the legal and ethical responsibilities of pharmacists in promoting patient welfare, respecting patient autonomy, and collaborating with other healthcare professionals. By adhering to these provisions, pharmacists can fulfill their vital role in patient care while upholding ethical standards and legal obligations.