How would you answer this impromptu essay question?

[AznPwyd]

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For my impromptu essay question during my interview, the prompt was something along the lines of: "Prescription drugs are the 2nd most abused drug type in the United States, as a pharmacist, how would you address this problem?"

At first I did not really know how to answer this question and kept rambling on and on about something :|. What would have been a good answer for this?

 

[rxlea]

Well, it's asking you what YOU would do personally as a pharmacist. So, what CAN you do? What is within your power/limitation to address abuse of prescription drugs? There are many ways you can go with this....

 

[chakapow]

I would have discussed the following topics:

1) Keen observation with controlled substance refills and new prescriptions. Is the refill consistently filled early? Are protocols followed for writing the Rx?
2) Following state and federal laws in regards to distribution/receiving of inventory. Are pills being double counted? For KY(not sure about other states), are social security numbers being obtained prior to dispensing a controlled Rx?
3) Communication. Does the DEA need to be informed of a MD or DO? Does a DO or MD need to be informed of a patient? Does a patient need verbal clarity on directions and frequency?

I would have included a theme within the essay that reflected the need not to assume everyone is seeking a high and to treat everyone with compassion.