Development and establishment of the clinical role of the hospital pharmacist in multidisciplinary teams at the European level

Abstract

Introduction: The dynamic development of the pharmaceutical profession, alongside prevailing trends in European healthcare, positions the clinical practice of pharmacists at the core of integrated care. In this context, the role of master’s-level pharmacists employed in healthcare institutions is expanding significantly, with their expertise becoming central to the provision of high-quality patient treatment. Contemporary concepts of effective healthcare management designate the pharmacist as a key member of multidisciplinary teams (MDTs), actively engaged in delivering integrated care and clinical pharmacy services. There is a clear trend toward increasing the integration of pharmacists as active participants in the therapeutic process across numerous European countries.

Aim: This article aims to analyze the extent to which the hospital pharmacist, as part of a multidisciplinary team, is engaged in providing clinical pharmaceutical services at the European level and to assess the challenges of their establishment at the hospital level.

Materials and Methods: A documentary method was applied, involving a systematic review and comparative analysis of the scientific literature using the Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar, and ResearchGate databases. Published informational materials from the official websites of the European Association of Hospital Pharmacists (EAHP) and the European Society of Clinical Pharmacy (ESCP) were also consulted. The analysis of the scientific literature covers the period from 2010 to 2023.

Results: Within the European Union, there is strategic support for the integration of pharmacists into multidisciplinary teams (MDTs), facilitated by new regulatory initiatives and pharmaceutical policies aimed at improving access, innovation, and the sustainability of medication therapy. Annual analyses conducted by the EAHP (2016–2023) indicate a clear integration of pharmacists into multidisciplinary teams in several countries, including England, France, Germany, and Italy. The data analysis also highlights challenges to integration, such as poorly defined responsibilities, workforce shortages, and the need for additional qualifications or specialized education.

Conclusion: The inclusion of hospital pharmacists in multidisciplinary teams is increasingly prevalent and is considered a desirable practice in healthcare institutions, with the primary aim of enhancing the quality of care and services provided. Challenges such as workforce shortages, regulatory constraints, and the need for additional specialized training remain obstacles to the full participation of pharmacists.