Building Bridges Between Physicians And Pharmacists

Abstract

Previous studies have indicated that there is a lack of communication between healthcare providers such as pharmacists and physicians. Our study was an initial attempt to understand the relationship patterns between family doctors and pharmacists and to try to identify the reasons leading to this lack of communication. Using semi-formal interviews and observational field studies, we explored the information flow between physicians and pharmacists as well as within physicians. Suggestions to improve pharmacist-physician communication are provided. This was the first step of a multi-year project trying to understand and improve communication between healthcare providers, through a better electronic healthcare records system.