If I want my pharmacist's opinion, I'll ask for it. He has neither discretion nor influence in my health care decisions - nor should he.
He is a pill-pusher, nothing more. His only job is to dispense as written unless there is obvious physician error.
I don't give a flying flip about his "religious objections." Do I have to abstain from pork just because my checkout clerk is Muslim?
possibly in the future... you'll have to go to another clerk... i'm sure the Muslims will at least fight for that... they are fighting for everything else...
PHARMACIST CODE OF ETHICS
Pharmacists are health professionals who assist individuals inmaking the best use of medications. This Code, prepared and supported by pharmacists, is intended to state publicly theprinciples that form the fundamental basis of the roles and responsibilities of pharmacists. These principles, based on moralobligations and virtues, are established to guide pharmacists in relationships with patients, health professionals, and society.
I. A pharmacist respects the covenantal relationship between the patient and pharmacist.
Considering the patient-pharmacist relationship as a covenant means that a pharmacist has moral obligations in response to thegift of trust received from society. In return for this gift, a pharmacist promises to help individuals achieve optimum benefitfrom their medications, to be committed to their welfare, and to maintain their trust.
II. A pharmacist promotes the good of every patient in acaring, compassionate, and confidential manner.
A pharmacist places concern for the well-being of the patient atthe center of professional practice. In doing so, a pharmacist considers needs stated by the patient as well as those defined byhealth science. A pharmacist is dedicated to protecting the dignity of the patient. With a caring attitude and a compassionate spirit,a pharmacist focuses on serving the patient in a private and confidential manner.
III. A pharmacist respects the autonomy and dignity ofeach patient.
A pharmacist promotes the right of self-determination andrecognizes individual self-worth by encouraging patients to participate in decisions about their health. A pharmacistcommunicates with patients in terms that are understandable. In all cases, a pharmacist respects personal and cultural differencesamong patients.
IV. A pharmacist acts with honesty and integrity inprofessional relationships.
A pharmacist has a duty to tell the truth and to act withconviction of conscience. A pharmacist avoids discriminatorypractices, behavior or work conditions that impair professionaljudgment, and actions that compromise dedication to the bestinterests of patients.
V. A pharmacist maintains professionalcompetence.
A pharmacist has a duty to maintain knowledge and abilities asnew medications, devices, and technologies become available and ashealth information advances.
VI. A pharmacist respects the values and abilities ofcolleagues and other health professionals.
When appropriate, a pharmacist asks for the consultation ofcolleagues or other health professionals or refers the patient. Apharmacist acknowledges that colleagues and other healthprofessionals may differ in the beliefs and values they apply tothe care of the patient.
VII. A pharmacist serves individual, community, andsocietal needs.
The primary obligation of a pharmacist is to individualpatients. However, the obligations of a pharmacist may at timesextend beyond the individual to the community and society. In thesesituations, the pharmacist recognizes the responsibilities thataccompany these obligations and acts accordingly.
VIII. A pharmacist seeks justice in the distribution ofhealth resources.
When health resources are allocated, a pharmacist is fair andequitable, balancing the needs of patients and society.
*adopted by the membership of the American Pharmacists Association October 27, 1994.
Oath of a Pharmacist
At this time, I vow to devote my professional life to the service of all humankind through the professionof pharmacy.
I will consider the welfare of humanityand relief of human suffering my primary concerns.
I will apply my knowledge, experience, and skills to the best of my ability to assure optimal drug therapy outcomes for the patients I serve.
I will keep abreast of developments and maintain professional competency in my profession of pharmacy. I will maintain the highest principles of moral, ethical and legal conduct.
I will embrace and advocate change in the profession of pharmacy that improves patient care.
I take these vows voluntarily with the full realization of the responsibility with which I am entrusted by the public.