Code Of Ethics In Pharmacy Case Study

The American Pharmacists Association’s Code of Ethics for Pharmacists is the ethics code listed on the Raabe College of Pharmacy website. This is also the code that I have chosen to specifically examine, analyze, and evaluate as well as apply to a relevant case. This ethical code, at first glance, seems rather strong. It seems to cover most aspect of practice in the profession of pharmacy. The code of ethics also appears to have had much thought in develop, in regards to concepts and theories of ethics. There are four major aspects of professional practice mentioned within this code. They are: professional competence, professional-client relationship, professional-colleague relationship, and professional-community relationship. Each is very

As a pharmacist, there are duties outlined in articles to the individual, community, and society. Balancing patient and societal needs are discussed in article eight. Utilitarianism is about the greatest good for the greatest number. In order for a pharmacist to balance needs of the patient and society, they have to see the cost and benefit of decisions – which in theory is based around utility. The principle of virtue ethics – finding the maximum of virtue, balancing between defect of action and excess of action ethically speaking – is hinted at more directly in the same point as utility. It is unclear whether virtue or utility is the concept presented in article eight. Virtue ethics is based around finding the right balance of two sides – so it seems like virtue could have also played a role in the development of this ethical code. Virtues are also mention in the preamble of the code of ethics. Justice is highly apparent within this code. Similarly to utility and virtue, article eight is a clear example of justice being used to develop the code of ethics. Article eight’s title is “A pharmacist seeks justice in the distribution of health resources” and discusses that “a pharmacist is fair and equitable” when resources become apportioned. Throughout the rest of the code, justice seems to be in the underlying meaning. When a pharmacist has a duty to treat patients equally – even if they have different beliefs – that is about