This research examines the question: "What is profes sionalism in pharmacy?" Four facets of the issue are addres sed, as follows: (1) the attributes of a profession, and phar macy's conformance with these attributes; (2) predictions clients should be able to make concerning the behavior of phar macists as professionals; (3) problems for pharmacists asso ciated with the dual role of professional practioner and busi ness manager or owner; and (4) pharmacy's role from a societal perspective.
THE ATTRIBUTES OF A PROFESSION, AND PHARMACY'S
The number of attributes which define a profession tend to vary according to the writer. Four of these attributes, how ever, may be expected to be found on any such list. These four attributes are as follows:
1. A profession must possess a specialized knowledge base (Wolfgang, 1989; Evans, 1988; Smith, & Knapp, 1985). The specialized knowledge base of the professional is also one which is considered by society to be of great value. The pro fession of pharmacy possesses such a knowledge base. "Pharma cists possess the most extensive knowledge about drugs of any occupational group in society" (Evans, 1988, p. 5).
2. A profession must possess and enforce an ethical code (Mrtek, & Catizone, 1989; Wolfgang, 1989; Evans, 1988; Smith, & Knapp, 1985). While pharmacy has an ethical code, Evans (1988) contends that few pharmacists give much thought to it although they practice in an ethical manner. He contends further, however, that ethical considerations will, in the relatively near future, play a much more significant role in the practice of pharmacy.
3. A profession must establish educational standards for its members, and it must require adherrence to these stan dards for admission to the profession (Mrtek, & Catizone, 1989; Evans, 1988; Smith, & Knapp, 1985). Pharmacy has well estab lished educational standards, which are enforced through the National Association of Boards of Pharmac...