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Specifics of pharmaceutical care in joint diseases

Ivo Kumanov, Anna Todorova, Kaloyan Georgiev, Galina Petrova

Abstract

Joint and rheumatic diseases cause significant, chronic health and societal burden, characterized by progressive impairment and long-term treatment needs. Effective management is multidisciplinary; pharmacists play a key role. This article examines pharmaceutical care’s impact on joint diseases, focusing on core care principles, therapy monitoring, and adherence strategies. Evidence shows pharmacists enhance patient outcomes by individualizing therapy, solving medication issues, educating patients, and ensuring follow-up. The need for structured pharmaceutical care in Bulgaria is highlighted, including clinical pharmacy development and national standards. Pharmacist-led care can improve outcomes and care quality for patients with joint diseases.


Keywords

pharmaceutical care, osteoarthrosis, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, medication adherence

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DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.14748/ssp.v10i2.10528

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About The Authors

Ivo Kumanov
Medical University of Varna
Bulgaria

Department of Organization and Economics of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy

Anna Todorova
Medical University of Varna

Department of Organization and Economics of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy

Kaloyan Georgiev
Medical University of Varna

Galina Petrova
Medical University of Varna
Bulgaria

Department of Organization and Economics of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy

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