Institutional Pharmacy

Institutional pharmacy refers to the department within healthcare facilities—such as hospitals, clinics, or long-term care homes—that is responsible for preparing, dispensing, and managing medications for patients. It ensures the safe, effective, and appropriate use of pharmaceuticals, often coordinating closely with medical staff to meet individual patient needs. Unlike retail pharmacies, which serve the general public, institutional pharmacies focus on specialized medication management within a healthcare setting, maintaining strict safety protocols, inventory control, and compliance with legal and clinical standards to support patient care.