Japanese pharmacy: innovation mixed with tradition.

OBJECTIVE

To report the current status of pharmacy practice in Japan.

DATA SOURCES

Published conference reports, journal articles, human resource consultation with medical and pharmacy practitioners, and site visitation by the authors.

DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS

Data on areas related to Japanese history, practice of pharmacy, and professional innovations were obtained through interviews and the literature. Information is provided to give an appreciation of current pharmacy practice in Japan.

CONCLUSIONS

Japanese pharmacy practice is a strong combination of tradition and professional innovation. The potential for professional growth is immense; Japanese pharmacy has successfully established payment for nondistributive pharmacy services. Payment for cognitive services creates many positive incentives for the future practice of pharmacy in Japan.