Olivia Hanson: Now, let’s shift gears and talk about AI in cardiovascular pharmacy. How are AI-driven clinical decision support tools helping pharmacists stay aligned with current guidelines and safety considerations?
Kristen Campbell, PharmD, BCPS, CPP, FACC: It ties back to what we’ve discussed. Managing blood pressure or atrial fibrillation generates a lot of patient data, especially from smartwatches and cardiac devices. AI helps us process [those] data and stay on top of [them]. I look forward to the time when these tools are fully integrated.
Key Takeaways for Pharmacists
- AI supports clinical decision-making. These tools can help process large volumes of patient data, integrate wearable information, and identify patients who may need intervention, all while supporting guideline adherence.
- Automation improves workflow. Applications like AI scribes and prior authorization software reduce administrative burden, freeing pharmacists to focus on patient-facing care.
- Stay current through trusted resources. Engaging with organizations like ACC, leveraging partnerships such as Open Evidence, and using digital media and podcasts can help pharmacists remain confident and up-to-date with emerging AI tools and evidence.
Craig Beavers, PharmD, FCCP, BCPS-AQ Cardiology: AI is a tool, and I hope people don’t fear it—it won’t replace pharmacists. In fact, it may identify more patients in need of intervention. AI recommendations are helpful, but pharmacists still need to interpret them, connect with patients, and guide them through therapy decisions. The ACC is actively exploring AI integration in guideline processes and has partnered with OpenEvidence to enhance collaboration. It will be interesting to see how this develops.
Glenn Herrington, PharmD, FACC, FHFSA, BCCP, CPP, HFCert: We’re seeing more AI embedded in electronic medical records. This could help build dashboards, screen patients, and automate some tasks behind the scenes. But it must be applied thoughtfully—alert fatigue is real, and we need meaningful integration rather than overwhelming pop-ups.
Hanson: Which automations have had the biggest impact on reducing administrative burden or improving workflow efficiency?
Herrington: In my practice, AI scribes are extremely helpful. They document patient visits, particularly for physicians and advanced practice providers, saving significant time.
Beavers: AI can also streamline prior authorizations. Another exciting application is using AI to search the EHR for patients who might otherwise be missed. Epic is currently developing processes in this area.
Hanson: How is AI supporting patient-facing interactions such as education, adherence, monitoring, or integrating wearable data?
Beavers: Kristen mentioned wearable data, which is a great example. AI chatbots can provide patient education, tailor information for accessibility, and support adherence. There’s a lot of ongoing exploration in this area.
Hanson: With rapid innovation, what strategies help pharmacists stay current and confident as new tools and evidence emerge?
Campbell: Following organizations like the ACC [American College of Cardiology] is helpful. For instance, ACC.26 is focusing on AI and its implementation in practice. Large organizations can guide us on opportunities, challenges, and strategies for overcoming them.
Beavers: ACC is indeed a valuable resource, especially with partnerships like OpenEvidence that provide timely updates. Podcasts and digital media also help pharmacists stay current, enabling more informed and up-to-date patient discussions.
