The challenges of doctor-pharmacist-patient interactions in preventing medical errors: An overview

Introduction: Medication errors remain a major global problem for patient safety. They are often associated with misunderstandings in the prescription, dispensing and administration of medicines. The literature suggests that collaboration between doctors, pharmacists and patients is one of the most effective strategies to prevent them. Purpose: This paper aims to examine the specific roles of each actor and to analyze effective forms of their collaboration to minimize medication-related medical errors. Methodology: The review includes 44 international sources published between 2018 and 2024, including scientific articles, institutional guidelines and meta-analyses. Special focus was given to empirical studies on collaborative practices in community and hospital pharmacies. Results: Evidence shows that pharmacist interventions and patient involvement improve adherence to therapy and reduce errors. Models such as PPMC and CDTM have yielded positive results in different countries. However, obstacles such as the lack of common protocols, legal barriers and insufficient communication continue to limit the impact of collaboration. Conclusions: Strengthening physician-pharmacist-patient collaboration is crucial for patient safety. This requires systemic reforms, interprofessional training and policies that promote active patient involvement in the decision-making process.