PHM 225 Pharmacy Law, Ethics, and Culture

Lecture Hours: 3
Credits: 3

Examines the legal, ethical, and cultural foundations of pharmacy practice. Emphasizes understanding federal and state pharmacy laws, patient rights, and confidentiality while developing cultural awareness and ethical reasoning. Students will explore how laws and professional standards intersect with cultural beliefs and ethical decision-making to ensure safe, respectful, and compliant patient care.

Maximum number of credits course can be taken for: 3

Student Learning Outcomes:

Describe how cultural beliefs, communication styles, and values influence patient care, medication adherence, and interactions in pharmacy practice. (ASHP 1.3, 1.5, 2.3, 4.1)
Explain ethical principles guiding confidentiality, professional conduct, and patient-centered decision-making. (ASHP 1.1, 1.2, 4.2)
Identify key federal and state laws governing pharmacy operations, prescription handling, and controlled substances. (ASHP 5.1-5.3)
Discuss the pharmacy technician’s responsibilities in maintaining ethical, legal, and culturally competent practice. (ASHP 1.4, 5.1, 5.5)
Recognize culturally sensitive communication strategies that promote equitable, patient-focused care. (ASHP 1.3-1.7, 4.1)
Summarize the functions of regulatory agencies and documentation procedures that promote patient safety and compliance. (ASHP 4.5, 5.4, 5.5)

Content Outline

Cultural Competence in Pharmacy Practice
- Understanding health beliefs and cultural perspectives
- Communication and language barriers in patient interactions
- Avoiding bias and promoting cultural humility
- Delivering patient-centered, inclusive care
Ethical Principles and Professional Conduct
- Core principles: autonomy, beneficence, justice, and nonmaleficence
- Ethical dilemmas and moral reasoning in pharmacy practice
- Confidentiality, informed consent, and patient privacy
- Professional behavior, boundaries, and integrity
Pharmacy Law and Regulatory Framework
- Federal and Oregon State pharmacy laws and regulations
- Controlled Substances Act (CSA) and DEA scheduling
- Oregon Board of Pharmacy rules and responsibilities
- Recordkeeping, prescription handling, and labeling requirements
Compliance and Documentation
- HIPAA and OSHA requirements
- Medication safety reporting and adverse event documentation
- Audit trails and data retention policies
Patient Safety and Advocacy
- Legal and ethical duties in safeguarding patients
- Technician roles in promoting safety and access to care
- Professional communication and advocacy in diverse populations
Professional Growth and Reflection
- Continuing education and professional accountability
- Reflective journaling on ethics and cultural awareness
- The technician’s role in maintaining public trust