The role the cancer pharmacist in the delivery of immunotherapy is multifaceted and continues to evolve. Medication assessment, monitoring and patient counselling are essential components of the pharmacist’s role in immunotherapies, as with other cancer therapies.
The limited stability and high cost of immunotherapy means that careful attention is required with respect to the preparation of the infusion and assessment of the suitability of the patient for treatment on the specified day. Teamwork between medical, nursing and pharmacy is essential to ensure an efficient throughput patients in the day therapy unit while minimising the possibility of wastage.
The rapid success of clinical trials has also introduced a new era of Medicine Access Programs for immunotherapies to be used in specified cancers before listing on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme. The pharmacist is pivotal to managing medication availability for patients on these complex programs.
This presentation will discuss the expanding role of the pharmacist in managing the patient on immunotherapy and ensuring appropriate cost effective use of these therapies.