Psychiatric pharmacists are playing a crucial role in optimizing medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD), according to a recent discussion between experts Ashley Maister, PharmD, BCCP, and Aaron Salwan, PharmD, MPH, BCCP. The conversation, featured in Pharmacy Times, delved into how these professionals utilize their independent scope of practice, develop protocols, and collaborate with healthcare providers to enhance patient care.
Both pharmacists emphasized the importance of expanding access to long-acting injectable therapies and innovative approaches to manage withdrawal from various substances. Maister, who works at the US Department of Veterans Affairs, highlighted the ability of psychiatric pharmacists to operate independently, which allows them to make significant contributions to patient outcomes.
Innovative Strategies for Managing Substance Use Disorders
Maister explained that at the Veterans Affairs facility, psychiatric pharmacists ensure that long-acting products are accessible to providers. This accessibility is governed by Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategies (REMS) protocols, which can complicate the ordering process. The goal is to simplify these procedures, enabling healthcare professionals to prescribe the correct dosages effectively.
A particularly noteworthy initiative discussed was the creation of a microinduction protocol for buprenorphine. This method facilitates easier access for individuals who may still be using opioids or are unaware of their opioid use due to other substances. By offering multiple options for patients to start or adjust their medications, psychiatric pharmacists can optimize treatment plans tailored to individual needs.
Salwan, who serves as a clinical pharmacy specialist at Montefiore Nyack, shared his experience in handling complex cases. He noted that traditional approaches may not work effectively for all patients, particularly those using multiple substances. In such situations, the ability to consult with a strong network of psychiatric pharmacists has proven invaluable.
“We just pick up the phone and call anyone if we have a question,” he stated, underscoring the collaborative nature of their work, which enhances both productivity and patient care quality.
Reducing Stigma in Healthcare Settings
The conversation also touched on the significant role psychiatric pharmacists can play in reducing the stigma surrounding substance use disorders. Salwan emphasized the importance of exposure and hands-on interaction with patients. He actively involves pharmacy students in these interactions, modeling respectful communication and patient-centered care.
By leading medication therapy groups, Salwan makes it a priority to ensure that patients feel heard. He utilizes motivational interviewing techniques to foster an environment where patients can comfortably share their experiences with medications, whether positive or negative.
Maister added that raising awareness among healthcare leaders about the importance of harm reduction tools is essential. She pointed out that certain states still consider harm reduction items, such as test strips, illegal, which complicates patient access.
“Educating people about the importance of these tools is where we shine,” she remarked. “Advocating for interdisciplinary collaboration helps integrate these practices into patient care.”
The insights shared by Maister and Salwan reflect a growing recognition of the critical role psychiatric pharmacists play in treating opioid use disorder. Their commitment to optimizing medication strategies and reducing stigma is pivotal in addressing the challenges associated with substance use disorders, ultimately leading to improved patient outcomes and a more compassionate healthcare environment.
