Collaborative Practice Model Between Cardiologists and Clinical Pharmacists for Management of Patients With Cardiovascular Disease in an Outpatient Clinic

The increasing prevalence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) has prompted leading cardiovascular organizations to advocate utilization of a team approach to patient care that includes nonphysician providers. In spite of that, the American College of Cardiology reported that nonphysician providers are underutilized in the management of patients with CVD. A survey of cardiologists revealed that the underutilization is a result of lack of understanding of how best to involve nonphysician providers in the health care team. Clinical pharmacists are one category of nonphysician providers that have recognized effectiveness in managing patients with CVD. No example of a comprehensive model of collaboration between cardiologists and clinical pharmacists is described in the literature that could serve to close this gap in understanding. The objective of this report is to describe a model of cardiologist–clinical pharmacist collaboration in the longitudinal management of patients with CVD that has been successfully implemented in 2 diverse settings. The implementation, evolution, scope of practice, required pharmacist training, logistical elements needed for success, and implementation barriers are reviewed. A summary of the patients referred to the clinic are examined as well.