What does the term "pharmaceutical care" encompass?

The term "pharmaceutical care" refers to a patient-centered approach that focuses on managing a patient's medication-related needs and ensuring optimal therapeutic outcomes. This concept encompasses comprehensive medication management, which includes assessing the appropriateness, effectiveness, and safety of medications prescribed to the patient.

Additionally, patient counseling is a crucial aspect of pharmaceutical care, where pharmacists educate patients about their medications, including proper usage, potential side effects, and the importance of adherence to prescribed therapies. This holistic approach aims to enhance patient health outcomes by addressing any medication-related issues and providing ongoing support and resources to patients.

Inventory control and management, medical billing practices, and drug development and research, while important in the realm of pharmacy, do not reflect the core principles of pharmaceutical care, which is primarily focused on direct patient interaction and medication therapy management.