The future of medication information practice: a consensus

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the current practice of drug information and develop a strategic plan for a "valued" specialty of medication information practice. DATA SOURCES: The Consortium for the Advancement of Medication Information, Policy, and Research (CAMIPR) met in June 1994 to initiate a strategic plan for a future of medication information practice. A multidimensional situation analysis and strategic planning process was conducted and the results are discussed. RECOMMENDATIONS: Trends in health care (e.g., healthcare reform, managed care) will impact the future of medication information practice, and the medication information specialist must evolve with society's values. Medication information practice must transform and attention will likely focus on medication policy research/ development and information systems. However, new skills, resources, and relationships must be developed to facilitate this evolution. In addition, interest in the practice of drug information has declined. Strategies are presented to enhance the "value" and "image" of future medication information practice.