Is the outcome worth it, for you, the pharmacy and others?

Scenario

A pharmacy was being reasonably successful with the number of medicine use reviews they performed. However, the local doctors rarely acknowledged the value of the reviews. The pharmacist really wanted to change this relationship, but wondered if it was better to leave things well alone. However, she made an appointment with the practice to discuss it.

At the meeting, the pharmacist explained the MUR consultation and what the pharmacist's role is and what it is not. Several GPs in the room did not look convinced. So the pharmacist changed tack by asking them how pharmacists, as healthcare professionals, could make things easier for the practice and benefit the patient. The pharmacist noticed a slight change in the room and discussion began. The pharmacist knew that the door was opening and that it was now within their control to build the relationship further.

This was taking the first step to a positive outcome.

Did this pharmacy take too much risk in discussing this so directly? Was it worth it? Things to decide on when you settle on your positive outcomes are:

• Is this worth the risk?
• Is there discomfort?
• Will I be giving up something I have now?
• Is the pain worth it?
• Is it worth the financial and time outlay?
• How will it impact on other parties?

In some circumstances, people have what we refer to as 'secondary gain'. This is when they decide the positive outcome is not worth it because they like to moan and complain about the current situation rather than change.