Pharmacist consultation recognized as healthcare service in the Chilean health system

Background: The Chilean health system operates under a mixed model comprising a public insurer, FONASA (National Health Fund), and private insurers known as ISAPREs. FONASA offers universal, equitable, and comprehensive coverage through two modalities: Institutional Care (ICM) and Free Choice (FCM). Objective: To describe the recent recognition of pharmacists as healthcare providers within the FONASA system and the implications of this inclusion. Description: A review of the policy process leading to Exempt Resolution No. 270 (2024) was conducted, highlighting stakeholder involvement, technical criteria, and financial considerations. This national resolution incorporated new healthcare services into the ICM fee schedule, including a newly coded pharmaceutical consultation. Fifteen new services were added, among them the pharmaceutical consultation (code 0102011), officially recognizing pharmacists as clinical healthcare providers. The resolution emphasized modernizing health benefits to align with current epidemiological and technological needs. Conclusions: This milestone represents a significant advancement for pharmaceutical practice in Chile. However, it also introduces challenges such as developing standardized procedures, improving documentation, and measuring productivity. Future goals include extending this service to FCM users and integrating pharmaceutical consultations within community pharmacies in accordance with national health legislation.