Need for a theoretical base for pharmacy practice

The thesis that building a theoretical base for pharmacy practice would be a useful strategy in directing the future course of pharmacy is developed. A "theoretical base" is defined as ah intellectual framework designed to serve the purposes and needs of future planning for pharmacy. It would'be composed of a series of ideas, concepts, statements, hypotheses, and other forms of abstraction that describe, clarify, and strengthen the societal position of pharmacy and its practitioners. Models of professional behavior are presented as a useful method for guiding the development of an expanded role for pharmacists. As the theoretical base takes form it should clarify the social purpose of pharmacy, direct the profession's commitment for the 21st Century, and provide the basis for new ideological concepts about the relationship between the profession and society.