In Michigan, can a pharmacy technician make an Offer to Counsel and provide counseling to pharmacy patients?

In the context of pharmacy practice in Michigan, pharmacy technicians are not permitted to make an Offer to Counsel or provide counseling to patients. The responsibility for offering counseling and providing comprehensive medication-related information lies specifically with licensed pharmacists. This is rooted in the need for professional judgment and the legal requirements placed on pharmacists to ensure that patients receive appropriate guidance on their medications.

While pharmacy technicians play a crucial role in the pharmacy setting—assisting with tasks such as dispensing medications, managing inventory, and performing administrative duties—they do not possess the necessary licensure or training to engage in counseling. By restricting this function to pharmacists, the law ensures that patients receive advice from individuals who have the required clinical education and professional accountability to address patient-specific questions and concerns effectively.

This regulation highlights the importance of maintaining a high standard of care in pharmacy practice, emphasizing patient safety and adherence to medication therapy.