Role of the Pharmacist in the Care Pathway for Patients with Leprosy

Thiago Ribeiro Coimbra, Guilherme Nobre Lima do Nascimento

Abstract

Leprosy is a chronic infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium leprae, which, if diagnosed and treated late, can lead to neuropathic sequelae and physical disability. Leprosy treatment is long-term and requires specific care, highlighting the importance of the contribution of the pharmacist through pharmacotherapeutic guidance and monitoring. The research aimed to analyze the participation of the pharmacist in the management of leprosy patients based on the flowcharts established by the Municipal Health Department of Palmas - TO. In view of this, documentary analyses of the flowcharts were performed, accessed through the notification system of the municipality of Palmas - NOTIFICASUS, collecting information on which stages of the flows the pharmacist is involved in and what his/her responsibilities are at each stage. Thus, a significant lack of inclusion of pharmaceutical services in leprosy treatment care was verified, which may favor problems of interruption and discontinuation of treatment. Based on this, the research proposes a reorganization of flowcharts in health services, suggesting a greater presence of pharmacists in the care of leprosy patients, in order to guarantee effectiveness and adherence to treatment.

Author Biographies

Thiago Ribeiro Coimbra, Fundação Escola de Saúde Pública de Palmas - FESP

Farmacêutico. Residente, Fundação Escola de Saúde Pública de Palmas-TO

Guilherme Nobre Lima do Nascimento , Laboratório de Ciências Básicas e da Saúde (LaCiBS) / Universidade Federal do Tocantins

Dr. Guilherme Nobre Lima do Nascimento. Laboratório de Ciências Básicas e da Saúde (LaCiBS) / Universidade Federal do Tocantins

Published
2025-09-12