Pharmacist’s Role in Patients with Infectious Diseases: Insights from a University Hospital in Thailand

Infectious diseases are still a leading cause of mortality worldwide.Moreover, the appropriate use of antimicrobial agents is crucial for improving patient outcomes and combating antimicrobial resistance.Pharmacists play a vital role in optimizing antimicrobial therapy through initiatives such as antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASPs), which promote rational drug use.This report highlights the role of pharmacists in infectious disease care at King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital (KCMH) in Thailand.At KCMH, pharmacists are integral to the implementation of ASPs in internal medicine wards and medical intensive care units (MICUs).Within ASPs, their responsibilities encompassed evaluating the appropriateness of drug therapy, participating in multidisciplinary rounds, and engaging in educational activities.In MICUs, they focus on optimizing antimicrobial dosing and therapeutic drug monitoring.During the COVID-19 pandemic, pharmacists adapted by monitoring antiviral therapies, managing drug-related problems, and supporting telepharmacy services.Our ambulatory care offers pharmaceutical services at the Airborne Infection Isolation Clinic, which provides care for patients with tuberculosis.Education and training are also crucial, as pharmacy students and residents gain structured experiences in infectious disease care through clerkships and the Board Certified Pharmacotherapy Training Program.These initiatives have led to measurable improvements in prescription appropriateness, therapeutic drug monitoring, and clinical outcomes, including reduced ICU mortality and shorter hospital stays.KCMH pharmacists demonstrate a multifaceted role in infectious disease management, education, and system-level interventions.Further studies are necessary to evaluate more the influence of pharmacists' roles and patient outcomes.