Objectives The aim of this study was to find information about participation of hospital pharmacists in rational use of medicines at Polish university hospitals. Thus, pharmaceutical services and other tasks performed by hospital pharmacists were determined.

Methods A simple questionnaire-based survey was applied. All pharmacist team managers of Polish university hospitals were invited to the study. The obtained data considered the present situation and future perspectives of the pharmacists’ role in rational use of medicines at Polish university hospitals.

Results Each hospital pharmacy arranges hospital supplies of drugs and medical devices. The majority of pharmacists are involved in compounding. Also, pharmacists participate in pharmacotherapy rationalisation and monitoring of adverse drug reactions as well, as they are involved in clinical trials. Clinical activities, like participating in hospital rounds are not common Polish hospitals.

Conclusions Generally, the role of hospital pharmacists is limited to performing pharmaceutical services at hospital pharmacies, and it should become more patient oriented as is observed in other countries. Similarly, they do not contribute essentially to rational use of medicines. More precise legal regulations, better postgraduate education of pharmacists may be helpful in improving this situation. Hospital pharmacy should become a significant part in medication management in Polish teaching hospitals.