Abstract
The World Health Organization defines health as a state of complete physical, mental and social well being and not merely the absence of disease. Health is a broad concept involving a team of multidisciplinary health professionals in delivering healthcare services. Pharmacy practice has the potential to provide services to the individual patients and improve the overall quality of life of the patient and the society. Traditionally, pharmacy profession was often regarded as a transitional discipline between the health and chemical sciences and as a profession charged with ensuring the safe use of medication. The International Pharmaceutical Federation recommends for implementation of Good Pharmacy Practice in community pharmacies.
Community Pharmacy is a place where medicines are stored, dispensed, supplied or sold. It acts as a first point of healthcare for majority of population living in the developing countries. Community Pharmacy in Bhutan includes retail and wholesale pharmacies. Retail pharmacies are involved in the sale of medicines and wholesale pharmacies for import and distribution of medicines. There are over 90 licensed retail and wholesale pharmacies in Bhutan and they are required to comply with the medicines rules and regulations. Community Pharmacy Practice in Bhutan has to evolve with the rapidly occurring changes in the healthcare deliveries and growing patient expectations.
Understanding the current practice of community pharmacies in Bhutan would be useful for studying the gaps and existing opportunities for improving the health of the population. This article describes the regulatory requirements and existing practices of community pharmacies in Bhutan.
Keywords: community pharmacies, CP, retail pharmacies, wholesale pharmacies, Bhutan.
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Corresponding Author
Pelden Chejor
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DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.18535/jmscr/v6i6.93
