Profession Of Pharmacy Under Siege by Dr. Kurt Grady
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The Profession of Pharmacy Under Siege
by Dr. Kurt Grady
Introduction
The pharmacy profession is embroiled in a significant ethical debate, especially in Illinois, concerning the dispensing of emergency contraception, commonly known as the "morning-after" pill. Many pharmacists oppose dispensing such medications due to moral and ethical beliefs. This issue challenges the doctor-patient relationship and the role of pharmacists. Dr. Kurt Grady from the Christian Pharmacists Fellowship International offers a unique perspective on this matter.
Background
Recently, the American Medical Association (AMA) implemented a policy encouraging states to allow physicians to dispense medications if no pharmacist within a 30-mile radius is willing. This decision stems from reports that some pharmacists refuse to fill prescriptions for contraceptives and abortifacients, as well as psychotropic and pain medications. Moreover, accusations arise against pharmacists withholding prescriptions and lecturing patients about their choices.
The Pharmacist's Oath
Dr. Grady emphasizes the pharmacist's duty to counsel patients about potential medications. He cites the Pharmacist's Oath, which underscores the responsibility to serve humankind and ensure optimal drug therapy outcomes. Below are key elements of the oath related to the current debate:
1. Service to All Humankind: From a pro-life perspective, service includes unborn life, considering them as patients.
2. Welfare of Humanity: Ending a potential life does not align with humanitarian welfare and adds to human suffering, as echoed in various scholarly discussions.
3. Optimal Drug Therapy: Ending life isn’t an optimal outcome, contradicting the aim of the oath.
4. Professional Competency: Advances in medicine should align with moral integrity, avoiding pragmatism that conflicts with a biblical worldview.
5. Advocacy for Change: Patient care is enhanced not just by medical treatments but also through fostering personal relationships with Jesus Christ.
6. Public Responsibility: Despite public scrutiny, adherence to personal faith and divine guidance remains paramount.
Challenges in Illinois
In Illinois, a contentious decision by Governor Rod Blagojevich mandates pharmacists to dispense Plan B if they stock traditional contraceptives. This order challenges pharmacists by:
1. Targeting the pharmacy profession.
2. Restricting pharmacies' ability to control their inventory.
3. Removing pharmacists’ rights to refuse based on conscience.
Luke Vander Bleek, a Roman Catholic pharmacist, has legally contested this order, citing violation of Illinois' "conscience" law. The outcome of this case could set a national precedent given its broader implications.
Personal Insights
Dr. Grady shares his personal experience, highlighting an intense discussion with colleagues who invoked the pharmacist's oath against his stance. He argued against dispensing Plan B by affirming that the oath is meant to protect life. When challenged about adopting an unborn child, he affirmed his commitment to life and willingness to adopt.
Conclusion
The debate over pharmacists' responsibilities in dispensing medications like the "morning-after" pill is not merely a professional dilemma but also a profound moral issue. Dr. Grady's insights urge pharmacists to hold firm to their convictions, guided by faith, and the enduring responsibility of their oath.
For additional resources, the Christian Pharmacists Fellowship International offers a Conscience Clause, accessible on their website, providing guidance for pharmacists facing moral conflicts.
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