When is written material allowed as a supplement to counseling?

Written material as a supplement to counseling is appropriate when the consultation occurs in person. This is crucial because the in-person interaction allows the pharmacist to ensure that the patient understands the provided written information and can address any questions or concerns immediately. The ability to engage with the patient directly enhances the effectiveness of the counseling and supports better patient outcomes.

While written material can certainly be beneficial for various prescriptions, its utilization is specifically linked to the nature of the counseling session. In-person consultations provide an opportunity for the pharmacist to gauge the patient's understanding and to tailor the discussion based on their responses. This interactive component of face-to-face counseling is vital for effective patient education and medication management, making it essential to consider the mode of consultation when supplementing verbal counseling with written materials.