Conceptual aspects, impact, and state of the art of dependent prescription in Brazil: narrative review

BACKGROUND: Nonmedical prescription is recognized in several countries as an excellent strategy in facing emerging demands that put a strain on the health system. It is a practice carried out by professionals who are not doctors and who, after obtaining specific qualifications and legal authorization, can prescribe medication and curatives. In Brazil, although there is already a legal subsidy for prescription in some professions, it is still an underdeveloped activity with few studies. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to describe the conceptual aspects and state of the art of this type of prescription in Brazil. METHODS: It is a narrative review of the literature that included national and international regulations related to the subject, as well as available articles, published in electronic journals in different databases. Key terms used were nonmedical prescription, nursing prescription, and pharmaceutical prescription. RESULTS: It was evidenced that nonmedical prescription has ample potential for improving the quality of care and the health conditions of patients. One can highlight as positive results the improvement of work satisfaction and self-confidence of those who have developed this practice; improvement of teamwork reported by other professionals due to the reduction of work overload; greater patient satisfaction in relation to access; and care provided by prescribers. CONCLUSIONS: It is understood that there are many challenges for the consolidation of this activity in Brazil and that its success depends on a joint effort of health and educational institutions, health professionals, and patients.