What is the full form of OBRA in relation to pharmacy practice?

The full form of OBRA in relation to pharmacy practice is the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act. This legislation, passed in 1990, significantly impacted pharmacy practice by establishing various guidelines and requirements for pharmacists, particularly concerning patient counseling and drug utilization review (DUR).

The act was designed to reduce healthcare costs while improving service quality, and it prompted pharmacists to take a more active role in patient care by ensuring that medications are used appropriately. Under OBRA, pharmacists are mandated to offer counseling to patients when dispensed medications, thereby enhancing medication safety and adherence to therapy.

This legislation fundamentally shaped how pharmacies operate today and underscored the importance of the pharmacist's role in healthcare delivery. It also facilitates a comprehensive approach to medication management, contributing to improved health outcomes for patients.