Board Certified Self-Care Specialist (BCSCS)

Exam Domains

Domain 1: Clinical Application in Self-Care Practice — 75%

This domain assesses knowledge and clinical decision-making in common self-treatable conditions across body systems.

Key Topics Include:

• Pain and Fever (Headache, Musculoskeletal pain, Fever)

• Cough, Cold, Allergy, and Minor Respiratory Conditions

• Gastrointestinal Conditions (Constipation, Diarrhea, Heartburn, Nausea/Vomiting, etc.)

• Dermatologic Conditions (Acne, Dermatitis, Burns, Wounds, Fungal infections, etc.)

• Women's Health and Reproductive Issues

• Eye, Ear, and Oral Disorders

• Nutrition, Obesity, and Supplements

• Smoking Cessation and Insomnia

• Minor infections and preventive care

Domain 2: Patient Assessment and Counseling — 15%

This domain evaluates the pharmacist’s ability to assess patient needs, triage appropriately, and provide effective education and counseling.

Key Topics Include:

• Symptom-based patient triage and red flag identification

• Use of clinical algorithms and assessment frameworks (e.g., QuEST/SCHOLAR-MAC)

• Patient education techniques and counseling strategies

• Cultural competency and communication in diverse populations

• Identification of medication-related problems in self-care

Domain 3: Safety, Legal, and Practical Considerations — 10%

This domain focuses on the pharmacist’s understanding of legal, regulatory, and safety-related aspects of OTC product recommendations.

Key Topics Include:

• Legal status and classification of nonprescription drugs

• Product labeling and proper use of OTC medications

• Drug interactions, contraindications, and safety in special populations (pediatrics, geriatrics, pregnancy)

• Storage, dosing, and device use (e.g., inhalers, thermometers, DME)

• Documentation and liability in self-care practice

Recommended Resources

The following resources are provided as examples of study materials that may support preparation for the Board Certified Self-Care Specialist (BCSCS) examination. This list is illustrative and not exhaustive. Candidates are encouraged to consult current clinical guidelines, evidence-based literature, and continuing education programs in self-care and community pharmacy practice.

Core References:

1. Handbook of Nonprescription Drugs: An Interactive Approach to Self-Care, 21st Edition
   Editors: Daniel L. Krinsky, Stefanie P. Ferreri, Melody Ryan, and others
   American Pharmacists Association (APhA)

   • The gold standard reference for OTC pharmacotherapy and patient self-care.

2. Community Pharmacy Practice Guidebook
   Authors: Jessica Wooster and Frank S. Yu
   McGraw Hill Education

   • A practical, real-world guide covering workflow, OTC consultation, triage, and communication.

3. Community and Clinical Pharmacy Services: A Step-by-Step Approach, 2nd Edition
   Authors: Ashley W. Ellis and Justin J. Sherman
   McGraw Hill Education

   • Structured to develop patient-centered care services in community pharmacy settings.

Supplemental Resources:

4. Clinical Guidelines and Practice Updates

   • CDC, WHO, USPSTF, and national associations (e.g., APhA, ACCP) on:

     • Smoking cessation

     • Immunization in community settings

     • Weight loss and nutrition counseling

     • Pharmacist-delivered care models