A new study by researchers at the University of Tsukuba discovered that chemists who speak assertively are more likely to assist doctors in reducing needless medicine prescriptions. The study, published in a peer-reviewed publication, focuses on how chemists' communication styles influence prescribing practices, particularly in cases of polypharmacy—a condition in which patients, frequently the elderly, take more medications than is medically necessary. 

Polypharmacy is typical among elderly people who have various health issues. It raises the risk of adverse effects, drug interactions, and excessive medical expenses. To prevent such dangers, doctors frequently need to change medications. Pharmacists play an important role in this process by analysing patients' medication records, test findings, and personal health data. They may then propose adjustments to the prescriptions. 

However, the study emphasises that these ideas may not always result in modifications, owing to the chemists' ability to communicate effectively with doctors. 

Examining the communication patterns of pharmacists working in different pharmacies, we attempted to understand how they engage with patients and colleagues. The researchers classified these exchanges into three categories: nonassertive, aggressive, and assertive communication. Pharmacists who exhibit nonassertive behaviour frequently refrain from expressing their own thoughts to maintain societal harmony, a feature profoundly ingrained in Japanese cultural traditions. On the opposite end of the scale, some pharmacists took an aggressive approach, presenting their opinions forcefully, which could jeopardise collaborative care. However, the study identified assertive communication as the most balanced and effective technique, in which chemists stated their opinions clearly and boldly while still respecting the perspectives of others. By mapping these communication styles, the study shed light on how interpersonal dynamics in pharmacies might impact patient care, workplace harmony, and professional happiness. 

Pharmacists who communicated assertively were substantially more likely to have their advice approved by doctors, resulting in fewer prescriptions. In contrast, nonassertive and aggressive methods produced different results. 

Dr Hiroshi Tanaka, one of the primary researchers, stated, "Assertiveness allows chemists to communicate effectively without conflict." This increases clinicians' faith in their recommendations and leads to better patient care. 

Polypharmacy is an increasing concern in India, particularly among the elderly and those with chronic conditions. A 2021 study in the Indian Journal of Pharmacology discovered that over 46% of senior patients in outpatient clinics were given more than five drugs at once. This raises the risk of problems, especially in places with limited access to follow-up care. 

A 2020 review in the Journal of Family Medicine and Primary Care found that a lack of cooperation between healthcare professionals and chemists contributes to overmedication. In India, chemists are frequently underused in treatment decisions. Major impediments include inadequate communication training and a lack of integration within clinical teams. 

This study from Japan provides vital insights for India and other nations dealing with rising polypharmacy rates. It emphasises that effective, courteous communication is more than just a soft skill; it is a clinical tool. Teaching chemists how to properly communicate could have a direct impact on patient safety. At a time when India's healthcare system is overburdened, making better use of skilled chemists could relieve doctors' workloads and eliminate preventable health risks for millions.