Abstract
In Japan, the profession "pharmacist" as part of the medical care system was established in 1874. However, the object of this newly-formed profession has not been defined sufficiently at present. Because pharmaceutical practices have not been distinguished from the medical profession, pharmacists don't have their own practice in dispensing drugs, but work only as drug distributors. Consequently the profession of pharmacist is not regarded as a medical care activity, and the social position of pharmacist is appraised unfairly in Japan. The most important task, therefore, is to introduce the separation of pharmaceutical practices from the medical profession (BUNGYO) as in advanced countries. That system seems to be more reasonable not only for pharmacists but for both patients and physicians, even in Japan. And needless to say the pharmacist in Japan should study more, throughout their lives, in order to fulfill their obligations in the medical care system.
