Dr Rajesh, an alumnus deliberated upon the evolving models of patient care in the USA

Dr Rajesh Nayak, an alumnus of Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Manipal is currently working as an associate professor and Director of Grad studies in Pharmacy Administration at St. John’s University, New York, USA. Dr Rajesh received his PhD in Pharmaceutical Outcomes and Policy from University of Florida, USA. The guest lecture on ‘Newer and Evolving Models of Pharmacy Practice in America’ on 13 August 2016 was organized by Department of Pharmacy Practice. Different aspects of pharmaceutical care and the expanding scope of practice in USA was the key point in his lecture. In particular, he dealt with two emerging models of patient care viz. Collaborative Drug Therapy Management (CDTM) and Medication Therapy Management (MTM). Citing anecdotes, he spoke at length on the evolution of pharmacists’ activities from older models of dispensing to newer ones. Most importantly, Dr Rajesh provided an insightful analysis of legislative hurdles and legal definitions becoming critical determinants in classifying and delimiting the professional duties and responsibilities of pharmacists engaged in many aspects of pharmaceutical care. In a thoroughly interactive and engaging manner, he inspired many students and teachers by leading a spirited discussion that stretched beyond the lecture hours.