Quote:
Originally Posted by AnnEsthesia
Yes, but the pharmacist does not say: Oh, they put you on X, but I think Y would be better. If they catch an interaction, then they call the Dr and get a new prescription. They do not go ahead and give you something else.
|
Nope, they do that too. Most Pharmacists either have Chemistry or Biology BS's before getting their PharmD; a degree which requires study in organic chemistry, crystalline structures, human biology, drug interactivity, and yes, even medical diagnosis. Many of my friends and some of my family went through pharmacy school, and in many ways they are better versed in treatment of disease and illness than doctors.
Now, they can't question the diagnosis itself. If a doctor says, "you have pink-eye, take some anti-biotics", the Pharmacist is going to give you some manner of antibiotic, but will likely call the doctor and have them change the script from a name-brand to a chemically-identical but much cheaper generic drug. Pharmacists do A LOT of very scientific work for somebody working in a grocery store, and that, again, is why they make so much money.
Back on topic, they are still employees paid to do a job; get patients the drugs they need. Pharmacists who decide that you simply shouldn't have birth control should rightfully be fired immediately without warning and sent on their merry way.