To establish new psychiatric pharmacist services, it should be recognized that substantial operational changes for the organization and staff are being proposed (see Change Management). Recognition of this can help improve one’s chances at successfully completing any proposed changes in how patients receive treatment. According to one model for managing complex change, there are five elements necessary for success. These include having 1) a vision, 2) the needed skills for the service, 3) proper incentives, 4) proper resources, and 5) an action plan. To develop a vision and an action plan, a needs assessment is necessary to identify opportunities for psychiatric pharmacist services within the practice setting being evaluated. Opportunities are identified by first understanding how the mental health care practice / setting operates and secondly discussing with providers what potential needs there might be. This process requires time to complete.
For additional practice expansion toolkits, visit the employer resource center.
