Role of Oncology Clinical Pharmacists in Light of the Oncology Workforce Study — JOP

* Copyright © 2010 by American Society of Clinical Oncology

Role of Oncology Clinical Pharmacists in Light of the Oncology Workforce Study

1. Jolynn K. Sessions, PharmD, BCOP,
2. John Valgus, PharmD, BCOP, CPP,
3. Sally Yowell Barbour, PharmD, BCOP, CPP and
4. Lew Iacovelli, PharmD, BCOP, CPP

+ Author Affiliations

1.
Charles George Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Asheville; University of North Carolina Hospitals, Chapel Hill; Duke Comprehensive Cancer Center, Durham; and Moses H. Cone Health System, Greensboro, NC

1. Corresponding author: Jolynn K. Sessions, PharmD, Charles George VA Medical Center, 1100 Tunnel RD, Asheville, NC 28805; e-mail: jolynn.sessions@va.gov

Much effort and research have been presented over the past 3 years about the future of the practice of oncology. It is estimated that a significant shortage of qualified oncology and hematology health care professionals will be seen by 2020.1,2 To date, the information published regarding workforce implications has focused on physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants.3 However, another clinical resource has been overlooked in available research and publications. There are a growing number of oncology clinical pharmacists who can assist with direct patient care and patient education activities. In fact, in certain states, clinical pharmacists …
Role of Oncology Clinical Pharmacists in Light of the Oncology Workforce Study — JOP