Pharmacist, Nurses and Physiotherapist and their Roles in Management of Osteoarthritis

Abstract

Providing evidence-based therapy for older persons with Osteoarthritis (OA) through primary care physiotherapists and pharmacists led to immediate enhancements in health outcomes, decreased reliance on non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines, and high levels of patient satisfaction. Physiotherapy appeared to result in a change in consultation behavior, moving away from the conventional paradigm of treatment headed by general practitioners. Physiotherapists in community settings are well-positioned to provide a comprehensive care plan that integrates self-help advice into an exercise-focused treatment program. They can also help transfer the responsibility of managing chronic musculoskeletal issues from general practitioners. In addition, community pharmacists have been associated with a novel responsibility as "supplementary prescribers." This enables them to evaluate and, if needed, prescribe specific medications as part of a mutually agreed clinical management plan for patients whose condition has been evaluated by an independent prescriber, such as a general practitioner. Studies have demonstrated that interventions conducted by pharmacists and nurses have a positive impact on prescribing practices. These interventions help to decrease the occurrence of adverse drug responses, enhance the appropriateness of drug use, lower drug expenses, and improve patient compliance across various medical conditions.