Further reading and discussion: Big data and impact on pharmacists

Big data is on the rise right now. It is already widely applied within many industries, pharmacy is no exception. This article is a comprehensive breakdown of how big data can be applied to pharmaceutical care. Though big data is not necessarily a form of automation, it is a pivotal tool in a pharmacist’s toolbox.

After reading the article please discuss the following questions:

• What type of information can big data provide pharmacists with?
• How have these information changed pharmaceutical care?
• How can these data be relevant to automation?
• Do you think pharmacists should also be involved in analyzing big data?
• Will this become one of pharmacists’ responsibilities?
• What additional training will pharmacists need to fully utilize big data?