pharmacistphysician

Pharmacist-physician, sometimes written as pharmacistphysician, is a term used to describe a professional who combines qualifications and responsibilities of both a licensed pharmacist and a medical physician. In practice, there are two related concepts: individuals who hold dual licensure in pharmacy and medicine, and collaborative practice arrangements that integrate pharmacists into medical teams under physician oversight.

Dual-trained professionals may hold both a PharmD and an MD/DO, or an MD/DO who has completed additional pharmacy training; they may practice in settings requiring expertise in pharmacotherapy and clinical decision-making. However, in many jurisdictions, licensure is separate and there is no single unified title; the term is more commonly used informally to describe a model of integrated care rather than a distinct credential.

In clinical settings, pharmacist-physician collaboration focuses on optimizing drug therapy, reducing adverse drug events, and improving adherence. Pharmacist-physician teams may participate in patient rounds, manage complex regimens, and apply pharmacogenomic information. Regulatory frameworks vary: some places allow pharmacists to prescribe or adjust medications under collaborative practice agreements or as part of advanced practice roles; elsewhere prescriptive authority is limited to physicians or other prescribers.

Training and competencies emphasize pharmacotherapy knowledge, pharmacology, patient assessment, and interprofessional communication. Critics warn of potential conflicts of interest, role confusion, and increased liability, while supporters highlight improved safety, efficiency, and access to care. The concept continues to evolve with health system reform, driven by interprofessional education and the push toward team-based care.