If you’re going through cancer treatment, it’s likely that your team will consult with or even include an oncology pharmacist as part of their therapy decision-making process. In the past, pharmacists have been more focused on pharmacy operations, providing safe medications to cancer patients, but as oncology evolves, so do care teams.
Today, oncology pharmacists have a wide range of both inpatient and outpatient duties, including: inpatient rounds with the patient care team, chemotherapy dispensing in both pharmacies and infusion centers, and ambulatory care support. When they’re dispensing any oral anti-cancer treatment, they’re relied on to provide patient education materials, perform adherence monitoring, and ensure your experience is safe and effective throughout your entire treatment therapy.
Oncology pharmacists can also be responsible for research on new and emerging cancer treatment therapies. They can help guide treatment protocols, compliance with regulations, and policy management. With this knowledge, they are even more valuable to your team and care regimen.
Your oncology pharmacist should also be knowledgeable about the retail reimbursement process, so if you’re struggling with financial resources and how to pay for certain recommended medications, make sure to include them – along with your care team – in conversations about co-pay assistance, alternate drugs, or manufacturer discounts.
As cancer care continues to grow, so do the roles and contributions of your care team to support you at every stage of your diagnosis.
If you would like to connect with an Outcomes4Me oncology nurse practitioner at no charge through the Outcomes4Me app, using the “Ask Outcomes4Me” button.
