Prescribing
and dispensing of medicines are fundamental processes in providing
healthcare for both human and animal patients. There has been
recent discussion in the literature to advocate for increased
co-operation between pharmacists and veterinarians, however there
is little data available about veterinary prescribing and dispensing
processes. Objective: The aims of this study were to gain
information on veterinary prescribing and dispensing processes
in companion animals in the Dunedin region of New Zealand. Methods: Open interviews were conducted with
a selection of five veterinarians at practices in Dunedin. All
interviews were transcribed verbatim. Results: In New Zealand almost all dispensing
of medicines for animals is carried out by veterinarians or their
staff. There is a lack of standard treatment guidelines and a
lack of regulation around the treatment period for which medicines
can be dispensed at one time (i.e. period of supply). Medicines
for animals are sometimes dispensed by community pharmacies, where
clients are experiencing financial difficulties or when particular
medicines are not held by veterinary practices. Record keeping
requirements and practices for veterinarians are similar to those
for community pharmacies. Conclusions: Processes undertaken by veterinarians
in terms of prescribing and dispensing were similar to pharmacists’
practices for human patients and so there is opportunity for collaboration
between the two professions. Pharmacists also have complementary
knowledge about dosing and formulating medicines that can assist
in delivering optimal healthcare to animal patients.
