This study demonstrated a feasible pharmaceutical care model for diabetes patients in an European country. The results have shown the pharmacist to be effective and well accepted by GPs and patients.

The study showed an efficient pharmaceutical care model, well accepted by physicians and nurses. It also indicated that for elderly patients, continuous drug review contributed to improved drug therapy, reduced unnecessary polypharmacy and reduced pharmaceutical costs.

Focal points □ Diabetes is a major public health issue affecting 3 per cent of the population □ Integration of the pharmacist into the multidisciplinary care of patients with chronic conditions is supported by the profession and the government □ Community pharmacists engaging with their established customers and access to relevant data can, through use of a systematic process, identify the pharmaceutical needs of this patient group □ The model of care proposed is feasible in a primary care setting, resulting in acceptance of pharmaceutical care issues general practitioners and an improvement in patient care