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Strand MA, Frenzel O. Revisiting the opioid and naloxone education (ONE) program: Program evaluation using the RE-AIM model four years later. Res Social Adm Pharm 2024; 20:648-653. [PMID: 38627152 DOI: 10.1016/j.sapharm.2024.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The Opioid and Naloxone Education (ONE) Program focuses on community pharmacy-based patient screening and interventions to improve population health with regard to opioid use. The purpose of this paper is to reevaluate the ONE Program performance using the RE-AIM model, in comparison to the review performed in 2019. METHODS The program performance of the ONE Program was evaluated from January 1, 2021 to December 31, 2022 was evaluated using the five domains of the RE-AIM model. Reach was defined as the proportion of patients receiving opioid prescriptions who completed the screening. Efficacy was defined as the proportion of individuals identified as at risk who received a pharmacist intervention. Adoption was defined as the proportion of community pharmacies who enrolled in the ONE Program. Implementation was defined as the proportion of pharmacies that enrolled that provided at least five patient screenings. Maintenance was defined as the proportion of pharmacies that completed at least one screening three months. These results were compared against evaluation of the program from October 12, 2018 to June 1, 2019. RESULTS Approximately 7.28 % of patients receiving opioid prescriptions were screened for risk of opioid misuse and accidental overdose (Reach). Of the patients screened, 97.4 % of patients at risk for opioid misuse or accidental overdose received a pharmacist-led intervention (Efficacy). Additionally, 49.6 % of the pharmacist that enrolled in the ONE Program completed at least five screenings (79 %) and of those, 86.4 % maintained the program three months later. CONCLUSIONS In years four and five of implementation, the ONE Program demonstrated improvement in four of the five domains of the RE-AIM model compared to years one and two. However, Reach declined over time. This reevaluation has demonstrated the importance of longitudinal program assessment, and the possibility of improved program performance over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark A Strand
- School of Pharmacy and Department of Public Health, North Dakota State University, P.O. Box 6050, Fargo, ND, 58108, USA.
| | - Oliver Frenzel
- ONE Program Resident Pharmacist, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND, USA
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Rao D, Ford JH, Shiyanbola OO. Patient and pharmacist perspectives on opioid misuse screening and brief interventions in community pharmacies. Addict Sci Clin Pract 2024; 19:27. [PMID: 38589965 PMCID: PMC11003152 DOI: 10.1186/s13722-024-00460-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pharmacy-based screening and brief interventions (SBI) offer opportunities to identify opioid misuse and opioid safety risks and provide brief interventions that do not overly burden pharmacists. Currently, such interventions are being developed without patient input and in-depth contextual data and insufficient translation into practice. The purpose of this study is to qualitatively explore and compare patient and pharmacist perceptions and needs regarding a pharmacy-based opioid misuse SBI and to identify relevant SBI features and future implementation strategies. METHODS Using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research, we conducted semi-structured interviews with 8 patients and 11 pharmacists, to explore needs and barriers to participating in a pharmacy-based SBI. We recruited a purposive sample of English-speaking patients prescribed opioids for chronic or acute pain and pharmacists practicing in varied pharmacies (small independent, large-chain, specialty retail) settings. We used an inductive content analysis approach to analyze patient interview data. Then through a template analysis approach involving comparison of pharmacist and patient themes, we developed strategies for SBI implementation. RESULTS Most patient participants were white, older, described living in suburban areas, and were long-term opioid users. We identified template themes related to individual, interpersonal, intervention, and implementation factors and inferred applications for SBI design or potential SBI implementation strategies. We found that patients needed education on opioid safety and general opioid use, regardless of opioid use behaviors. Pharmacists described needing patient-centered training, protocols, and scripts to provide SBI. A short-self-reported screening and brief interventions including counseling, naloxone, and involving prescribers were discussed by both groups. CONCLUSIONS Through this implementation-focused qualitative study, we identified patient needs such as opioid safety education delivered in a private and convenient format and pharmacist needs including training, workflow integration, protocols, and a time-efficient intervention for effective pharmacy-based SBI. Alternate formats of SBI using digital health technologies may be needed for effective implementation. Our findings can be used to develop patient-centered pharmacy-based SBI that can be implemented within actual pharmacy practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepika Rao
- School of Pharmacy, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 777 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI, 53703, USA.
- Center for Technology and Behavioral Health, Geisel School of Medicine, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, 03755, USA.
| | - James H Ford
- School of Pharmacy, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 777 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI, 53703, USA
| | - Olayinka O Shiyanbola
- School of Pharmacy, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 777 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI, 53703, USA
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Jarrett JB, Bratberg J, Burns AL, Cochran G, DiPaula BA, Dopp AL, Elmes A, Green TC, Hill LG, Homsted F, Hsia SL, Matthews ML, Ghitza UE, Wu LT, Bart G. Research Priorities for Expansion of Opioid Use Disorder Treatment in the Community Pharmacy. Subst Abus 2023; 44:264-276. [PMID: 37902032 PMCID: PMC10870734 DOI: 10.1177/08897077231203849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2023]
Abstract
In the last decade, the U.S. opioid overdose crisis has magnified, particularly since the introduction of synthetic opioids, including fentanyl. Despite the benefits of medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD), only about a fifth of people with opioid use disorder (OUD) in the U.S. receive MOUD. The ubiquity of pharmacists, along with their extensive education and training, represents great potential for expansion of MOUD services, particularly in community pharmacies. The National Institute on Drug Abuse's National Drug Abuse Treatment Clinical Trials Network (NIDA CTN) convened a working group to develop a research agenda to expand OUD treatment in the community pharmacy sector to support improved access to MOUD and patient outcomes. Identified settings for research include independent and chain pharmacies and co-located pharmacies within primary care settings. Specific topics for research included adaptation of pharmacy infrastructure for clinical service provision, strategies for interprofessional collaboration including health service models, drug policy and regulation, pharmacist education about OUD and OUD treatment, including didactic, experiential, and interprofessional curricula, and educational interventions to reduce stigma towards this patient population. Together, expanding these research areas can bring effective MOUD to where it is most needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennie B. Jarrett
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, USA
| | - Jeffrey Bratberg
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Clinical Research, College of Pharmacy, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI, USA
| | - Anne L. Burns
- American Pharmacists Association, Washington, DC, USA (retired)
| | - Gerald Cochran
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Bethany A. DiPaula
- Department of Practice, Sciences, and Health Outcomes Research, School of Pharmacy, University of Maryland Baltimore, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | - Abigail Elmes
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, USA
| | - Traci C. Green
- COBER on Opioids and Overdose at Rhode Island Hospital and the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
- Opioid Policy Research Collaborative, The Heller School for Social Policy and Management, Brandeis University, Waltham, MA, USA
| | - Lucas G. Hill
- The University of Texas at Austin, College of Pharmacy, Austin, TX, USA
| | | | - Stephanie L. Hsia
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, San Francisco School of Pharmacy, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Michele L. Matthews
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, School of Pharmacy, Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Udi E. Ghitza
- National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), Center for the Clinical Trials Network (CCTN), Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Li-Tzy Wu
- Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Gavin Bart
- Department of Medicine, Hennepin Healthcare, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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Sachidanandan G, Sud A. From Two Dimensions to Multidimensions: A Mechanistic Model to Support Deliberate CPD Development, Coordination, and Evaluation. THE JOURNAL OF CONTINUING EDUCATION IN THE HEALTH PROFESSIONS 2023:00005141-990000000-00099. [PMID: 37782259 DOI: 10.1097/ceh.0000000000000527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The effectiveness of continuing professional development as an intervention to improve health professional behavior and patient health is variable and contentious. To clarify the causal relationships underlying program outcomes and facilitate a necessary shift from outcomes-only-based approaches to outcome-based and theory-based approaches in program development and evaluation, we developed a model of mechanisms mapped to relevant outcomes. METHODS Mechanisms identified in a prior realist synthesis of opioid agonist therapy continuing professional development programs were iteratively tested and refined using purposive and opportunistic sampling and realist approaches against two systematic reviews of programs in analgesic prescribing and palliative care. Further testing involved practical application within programs in sustainable health care and pain management. RESULTS Ninety reports on 75 programs and practical application to multiple additional programs informed the final model consisting of five distinct mechanisms: motivation transformation, expert influence, confidence development, self-efficacy facilitation, and community of practice expansion. The mechanisms and related analysis emphasize that continuing professional development is heterogeneous, complex, and context dependent. DISCUSSION Shifting toward outcome-based and theory-based approaches facilitates further conceptual shifts at intraprogram and interprogram and interintervention levels toward more deliberate program development and evaluation, increased program complementarity and subsequent collaboration. It clarifies opportunities for intercalation of continuing professional development with other intervention sciences. The model presents a resource for practitioners, researchers, and policymakers to advance continuing professional development planning, coordination, and evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grahanya Sachidanandan
- Ms. Sachidanandan: Medical Student, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto. Dr. Sud: Research Chair, Primary Care & Population Health Systems, Humber River Hospital, and Assistant Professor, Department of Family and Community Medicine, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto
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Rao D, Mercy M, McAtee C, Ford JH, Shiyanbola OO. A scoping literature review of pharmacy-based opioid misuse screening and brief interventions. Res Social Adm Pharm 2023:S1551-7411(23)00253-X. [PMID: 37210240 PMCID: PMC10186861 DOI: 10.1016/j.sapharm.2023.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although prescription opioid dispensing rates have continued to decrease, overdose deaths involving prescription opioids have increased during the COVID-19 pandemic. Screening and brief interventions (SBI) are an effective prevention strategy to identify and address opioid misuse and safety risks. Emerging literature on pharmacy-based SBI needs to be systematically appraised to develop robust interventions. OBJECTIVE Our objective was to conduct a scoping review of the literature regarding pharmacy-based opioid misuse SBI to identify relevant literature that explore the topic, evaluate the patient-centeredness of included studies, and explore the use of dissemination and implementation science in the literature. METHODS The review was conducted according to Preferred Reporting of Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses -Scoping reviews (PRISMA-Sc) guidelines. We searched PubMed, CINHAL, PsychInfo, and Scopus for studies regarding pharmacy-based SBI, published in the last 20 years. We also conducted a separate grey literature search. Two of three total reviewers screened each abstract individually and identified eligible full-texts for inclusion. We critically appraised quality of included studies and qualitatively synthesized the relevant information. RESULTS The search resulted in 21 studies (categorized as intervention, descriptive, and observational research) and 3 grey literature reports. Of the recently published 21 studies, 11 were observational research, with six interventions in the pilot stages. Screening tools varied but naloxone was the brief intervention in 15 of the 24 results. Only eight studies had high validity, reliability, and applicability and only five were patient-centered. Implementation science principles were addressed in eight studies (mainly interventions). Overall, the findings suggest high potential for evidence-based SBI to be successful. CONCLUSIONS Overall, the review suggested a strong lack of a patient-centered and implementation science-focused approach to designing pharmacy-based opioid misuse SBI. Findings suggest that a patient-centered, implementation focused approach is needed for effective and sustained pharmacy-based opioid misuse SBI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepika Rao
- School of Pharmacy, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 777 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI, 53703, USA.
| | - Meg Mercy
- University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA.
| | | | - James H Ford
- School of Pharmacy, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 777 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI, 53703, USA.
| | - Olayinka O Shiyanbola
- School of Pharmacy, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 777 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI, 53703, USA.
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Welsh JW, Yarbrough CR, Sitar SI, Mataczynski MJ, Peralta AM, Kan M, Crawford ND, Conrad TA, Kee C, Young HN. Demographic and socioeconomic correlates to buprenorphine access in pharmacies. J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) 2023; 63:751-759. [PMID: 36658013 PMCID: PMC11332381 DOI: 10.1016/j.japh.2022.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research has focused on buprenorphine prescribing with limited attention to the role of pharmacy access to buprenorphine for opioid use disorder. OBJECTIVE This study examines demographic and socioeconomic correlates to buprenorphine access in Georgia pharmacies. METHODS A 5-question (12 potential subqueries) telephone administered survey was used to investigate access and stocking patterns of specific dosages and formulations of buprenorphine in Georgia pharmacies (n = 119). Descriptive statistics characterized physician and pharmacy demographics and buprenorphine stocking practices. Correlations between various factors including buprenorphine stocking practices, geographic, and sociodemographic characteristics were identified using nonlinear regression models. RESULTS The majority of pharmacies stocked the most commonly prescribed 8/2 mg dosage strength of buprenorphine/naloxone films and tablets (69.0% and 63.0%, respectively). Other strengths were less likely to be readily available. Pharmacies in Suburban Census tracts were 77.0% more likely to stock any type of buprenorphine monotherapy [odds ratio (OR) = 1.77, t = 2.37, P < 0.05] and 58.1% more likely to stock the 8 mg buprenorphine monotherapy formulation [OR = 1.58, t = 2.15, P < 0.05] than Urban tracts. Pharmacies in areas with above-average non-White populations were 29.6% more likely to stock a monotherapy product [OR = 1.30, t = 2.16, P < 0.05], and those in areas with above-average poverty rates were more likely to stock the 8 mg/2 mg buprenorphine/naloxone tablets [OR = 1.04, t = 2.02, P < 0.05]. There were no additional differences across the sample in formulation or dosage strengths. Pharmacists who endorsed challenges dispensing buprenorphine (23.3%) cited issues around insurance coverage, payment difficulty, prior authorization issues, and low stock of specific formulations. CONCLUSIONS Results suggest that low availability of certain dosages or formulations of buprenorphine in local pharmacies could obstruct access for patients. Future research should address barriers to supplying buprenorphine and collaborative measures between pharmacists and prescribers to improve access.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justine W. Welsh
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Emory Addiction Center, Atlanta, GA
| | | | - Siara I. Sitar
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Emory Addiction Center, Atlanta, GA
| | - Maggie J. Mataczynski
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA
| | | | - Mary Kan
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA
| | | | | | | | - Henry N. Young
- Department Head, Director of Pharmaceutical Health Services, Outcomes, and Policy, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia, Athens, GA
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Cid A, Ng A, Ip V. Addressing the Opioid Crisis—The Need for a Pain Management Intervention in Community Pharmacies in Canada: A Narrative Review. PHARMACY 2023; 11:pharmacy11020071. [PMID: 37104077 PMCID: PMC10144945 DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy11020071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: The opioid crisis is a public health concern in Canada with a continued rise in deaths and presents a significant economic impact on the healthcare system. There is a need to develop and implement strategies for decreasing the risk of opioid overdoses and other opioid-related harms resulting from the use of prescription opioids. Pharmacists, as medication experts and educators, and as one of the most accessible frontline healthcare providers, are well positioned to provide effective opioid stewardship through a pain management program focused on improving pain management for patients, supporting appropriate prescribing and dispensing of opioids, and supporting safe and appropriate use of opioids to minimize potential opioid misuse, abuse, and harm. Methods: A literature search was conducted in PubMed, Embase and grey literature to determine the characteristics of an effective community pharmacy-based pain management program, including the facilitators and barriers to be considered. Discussion: An effective pain management program should be multicomponent, address other co-morbid conditions in addition to pain, and contain a continuing education component for pharmacists. Solutions to implementation barriers, including pharmacy workflow; addressing attitudes beliefs, and stigma; and pharmacy remuneration, as well as leveraging the expansion of scope from the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act exemption to facilitate implementation, should be considered. Conclusions: Future work should include the development, implementation, and evaluation of a multicomponent, evidence-based intervention strategy in Canadian community pharmacies to demonstrate the impact pharmacists can have on the management of chronic pain and as one potential solution to helping curb the opioid crisis. Future studies should measure associated costs for such a program and any resulting cost-savings to the healthcare system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Cid
- Ontario Pharmacists’ Association, Toronto, ON M5H 3B7, Canada
- School of Pharmacy, University of Waterloo, Kitchener, ON N2G 1C5, Canada
| | - Angeline Ng
- Ontario Pharmacists’ Association, Toronto, ON M5H 3B7, Canada
| | - Victoria Ip
- Ontario Pharmacists’ Association, Toronto, ON M5H 3B7, Canada
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Hohmeier KC, Cernasev A, Leibold C, Moore TM, Schlesinger E, Cochran G, Arce I, Geminn W, Chisholm-Burns M. Community-Centered Patient Journey Map in Opioid Use Disorder: A Tool to Address Compassion Fatigue among Community Pharmacists. PHARMACY 2023; 11:52. [PMID: 36961030 PMCID: PMC10037586 DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy11020052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Community pharmacists have become increasingly exposed to opioid use disorders in recent decades. However, both pharmacist training and traditional practice environments have not been adequate to prepare the pharmacist for both the patient care needs and regulatory barriers of patients experiencing opioid use disorders (OUD). As a result, there is a need to increase pharmacists' awareness of both the overall patient experience as they navigate their OUD and the role of the community pharmacy as a touchpoint within that experience. To this end, a Community-Centered Patient Journey in Drug Addiction Treatment journey map was developed with expert insights, clinical experience, and in-depth interviews (conducted in spring of 2021) with 16 participants enrolled in licensed opioid treatment programs in Tennessee. Patients, policymakers, clinicians, and academic researchers were involved in the map development. Lived experiences of key informants were captured via in-depth interviews. A consensus decision-making approach was used throughout the patient journey map development process. The final patient journey map illustrates a non-linear pathway, describes the central role of the patient's community, and emphasizes three major "pain points" within the system (access, adherence, and affordability). Future research should investigate the impact of such a journey map on pharmacy personnel's knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth Charles Hohmeier
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Translational Science, College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Nashville, TN 37211, USA
| | - Alina Cernasev
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Translational Science, College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Nashville, TN 37211, USA
| | - Christina Leibold
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Translational Science, College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Nashville, TN 37211, USA
| | - Todd M. Moore
- Department of Psychology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996, USA
| | - Erica Schlesinger
- Tennessee Department of Mental Health & Substance Abuse Services, Nashville, TN 37243, USA
| | - Gerald Cochran
- Division of Epidemiology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | - Ileana Arce
- Tennessee Department of Mental Health & Substance Abuse Services, Nashville, TN 37243, USA
| | - Wesley Geminn
- Tennessee Department of Mental Health & Substance Abuse Services, Nashville, TN 37243, USA
| | - Marie Chisholm-Burns
- Office of the Provost, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA
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Sud A, Hodgson K, Bloch G, Upshur R. A Conceptual Framework for Continuing Medical Education and Population Health. TEACHING AND LEARNING IN MEDICINE 2022; 34:541-555. [PMID: 34459333 DOI: 10.1080/10401334.2021.1950540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
ISSUE Health systems have been increasingly called upon to address population health concerns and continuing medical education (CME) is an important means through which clinical practices can be improved. This manuscript elaborates on existing conceptual frameworks in order to support CME practitioners, funders, and policy makers to develop, implement, and evaluate CME vis-a-vis population health concerns. EVIDENCE Existing CME conceptual models and conceptions of CME effectiveness require elaboration in order to meet goals of population health improvement. Frameworks for the design, implementation and evaluation of CME consistently reference population health, but do not adequately conceptualize it beyond the aggregation of individual patient health. As a pertinent example, opioid prescribing CME programs use the opioid epidemic to justify their programs, but evaluation approaches are inadequate for demonstrating population health impacts. CME programs that are built to have population health outcomes using frameworks intended primarily for physician performance and patient health outcomes are thus not able to recognize either non-linear associations or negative unintended consequences. IMPLICATIONS This proposed conceptual framework draws on the fields of clinical population medicine, the social determinants of health, health equity, and philosophies of population health to build conceptual bridges between the CME outcome levels of physician performance and patient health to population health. The authors use their experience developing, delivering, and evaluating opioid prescribing- and poverty-focused CME programs to argue that population health-focused CME must be re-oriented in at least five ways. These include: 1) scaling effective CME programs while evaluating at population health levels; 2) (re)interpreting evidence for program content from a population perspective; 3) incorporating social determinants of health into clinically-oriented CME activities; 4) explicitly building fluency in population health concepts and practices among health care providers and CME planners; and 5) attending to social inequity in every aspect of CME programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhimanyu Sud
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Bridgepoint Collaboratory for Research and Innovation, Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Sinai Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Institute for Health Policy, Management, and Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kate Hodgson
- Continuing Professional Development, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Gary Bloch
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ross Upshur
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Bridgepoint Collaboratory for Research and Innovation, Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Sinai Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Institute for Health Policy, Management, and Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Winstanley EL, Thacker EP, Choo LY, Lander LR, Berry JH, Tofighi B. Patient-reported problems filling buprenorphine prescriptions and motivations for illicit use. DRUG AND ALCOHOL DEPENDENCE REPORTS 2022; 5:100091. [PMID: 36844166 PMCID: PMC9949336 DOI: 10.1016/j.dadr.2022.100091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2022] [Revised: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Background While barriers to accessing buprenorphine (BUP) therapy have been well described, little is known about pharmacy-related barriers. The objective of this study was to estimate the prevalence of patient-reported problems filling BUP prescriptions and determine whether these problems were associated with illicit use of BUP. The secondary objectives included identifying motivations for illicit BUP use and the prevalence of naloxone acquisition among patients prescribed BUP. Methods Between July 2019 and March 2020, 139 participants receiving treatment for an opioid use disorder (OUD) at two sites within a rurally-located health system, completed an anonymous 33-item survey. A multivariable model was used to assess the association between pharmacy-related problems filling BUP prescriptions and illicit substance use. Results More than a third of participants reported having problems filling their BUP prescription (34.1%, n = 47) with the most commonly reported problems being insufficient pharmacy stock of BUP (37.8%, n = 17), pharmacist refusal to dispense BUP (37.8%, n = 17), and insurance problems (34.0%, n = 16). Of those who reported illicit BUP use (41.5%, n = 56), the most common motivations were to avoid/ease withdrawal symptoms (n = 39), prevent/reduce cravings (n = 39), maintain abstinence (n = 30), and treat pain (n = 19). In the multivariable model, participants who reported a pharmacy-related problems were significantly more likely to use illicitly obtained BUP (OR=8.93, 95% CI: 3.12, 25.52, p < 0.0001). Conclusion Efforts to improve BUP access have primarily focused on increasing the number of clinicians waivered to prescribe; however, challenges persist with BUP dispensing and coordinated efforts may be needed to systematically reduce pharmacy-related barriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin L. Winstanley
- Department of Behavioral Medicine and Psychiatry, School of Medicine and Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, United States,Department of Neuroscience, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, United States,Corresponding author at: Department of Behavioral Medicine and Psychiatry, School of Medicine and Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, United States.
| | - Emily P. Thacker
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Lyn Yuen Choo
- West Virginia Clinical and Translational Science Institute, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, United States
| | - Laura R. Lander
- Department of Behavioral Medicine and Psychiatry, School of Medicine and Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, United States,Department of Neuroscience, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, United States
| | - James H. Berry
- Department of Behavioral Medicine and Psychiatry, School of Medicine and Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, United States,Department of Neuroscience, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV, United States
| | - Babak Tofighi
- Department of Population Health, New York University School of Medicine, United States
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Hohmann LA, Fox BI, Garza KB, Wang CH, Correia C, Curran GM, Westrick SC. Impact of a Multicomponent Educational Intervention on Community Pharmacy-Based Naloxone Services Implementation: A Pragmatic Randomized Controlled Trial. Ann Pharmacother 2022; 57:677-695. [PMID: 36047381 DOI: 10.1177/10600280221120405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite US naloxone access laws, community pharmacists lack training and confidence in providing naloxone. OBJECTIVE To assess the impact of the Empowering Community Pharmacists program on pharmacists' knowledge, perceived barriers, attitudes, confidence, and intentions regarding naloxone services implementation, as well as naloxone prescriptions dispensed. METHODS A 3-month pragmatic randomized controlled trial was conducted from December 2018 to March 2019. Alabama community pharmacists were recruited by mail, email, phone, and fax and randomized to intervention (monthly resources/reminders + educational webinar) or control (monthly reminders only). Outcome measures were assessed via online surveys at baseline (T1), immediately post-intervention (T2), and 3 months post-intervention (T3), including naloxone knowledge (%correct); perceived barriers, attitudes, confidence, and intention regarding naloxone services implementation (7-point Likert-type scale; 1 = strongly disagree, 7 = strongly agree); and number of naloxone prescriptions dispensed. Mean differences between control and intervention from T1 to T3 were assessed using 2-way mixed analysis of variance and adjusted analyses were conducted using generalized estimating equations with negative binomial distribution to assess associations between variables. RESULTS Of 55 participants (n = 27 intervention, n = 28 control), most were female (80.3%), white (80.6%), in independently owned pharmacies (39.1%). Increases in mean [SD] confidence (5.52 [1.03]-6.16 [0.74], P < 0.0005) and intention (5.35 [1.51]-6.10 [0.96], P = 0.023) occurred from pre- to post-program within the intervention group and were statistically significant compared with control (confidence P = 0.016, intention P = 0.014). Confidence (exp(β) = 1.46, P = 0.031) and perceived barriers (exp(β) = 0.75, P = 0.022) were associated with number of naloxone prescriptions dispensed. CONCLUSION AND RELEVANCE The Empowering Community Pharmacists program improved community pharmacists' confidence and intention regarding naloxone services implementation. Other states can adapt program elements according to their laws. CLINICALTRIALS.GOV IDENTIFIER NCT05093309.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey A Hohmann
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Auburn University Harrison College of Pharmacy, Auburn, AL, USA
| | - Brent I Fox
- Department of Health Outcomes Research and Policy, Auburn University Harrison College of Pharmacy, Auburn, AL, USA
| | - Kimberly B Garza
- Department of Health Outcomes Research and Policy, Auburn University Harrison College of Pharmacy, Auburn, AL, USA
| | - Chih-Hsuan Wang
- Department of Educational Foundations, Leadership, and Technology, Auburn University College of Education, Auburn, AL, USA
| | - Christopher Correia
- Department of Psychology, Auburn University College of Liberal Arts, Auburn, AL, USA
| | - Geoffrey M Curran
- Departments of Pharmacy Practice and Psychiatry, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Salisa C Westrick
- Department of Health Outcomes Research and Policy, Auburn University Harrison College of Pharmacy, Auburn, AL, USA
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12
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Skoy E, Frenzel O, Eukel H, Lothspeich E, Steig J, Strand M, Werremeyer A. Evaluation of a Program to Screen Patients in Community Pharmacies for Opioid Misuse and Accidental Overdose. Prev Chronic Dis 2022; 19:E41. [PMID: 35834737 PMCID: PMC9336191 DOI: 10.5888/pcd19.220028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Community pharmacies nationwide have adopted new strategies to combat the opioid epidemic. One strategy to prevent opioid misuse and accidental overdose is patient screening to identify those at risk. The purpose of our study was to determine whether such screening in community pharmacies led pharmacy personnel to intervene with patients at risk and to describe the proportion of patients they identified as at risk. Methods We implemented the Opioid and Naloxone Education (ONE) program in North Dakota to give community pharmacies and pharmacists training and tools to provide preventive screening for opioid misuse and accidental overdose before dispensing a prescribed opioid. Data were collected and analyzed from September 15, 2018, through May 15, 2021, to evaluate overall patient risk characteristics for opioid misuse and accidental overdose. Results Of 8,217 patients screened, 3.9% were identified as at high risk for opioid misuse, and 18.3% at risk for accidental overdose. Nearly 1 of 3 screenings (31.7%) indicated opioid medication use in the past 60 days. Pharmacists delivered 1 or more risk-factor–dependent interventions to 41.1% of patients in the study. Following screening, naloxone dispensing in pharmacies increased to 6 times the national average. Conclusion Pharmacy-based patient screening for risk of opioid misuse and accidental overdose led to risk-dependent interventions targeted to individual patients. The tools and risk-dependent interventions applied in the ONE program increased patient awareness of opioid risks and ways to reduce risk. Future studies should examine long-term outcomes, including reduction in overdose, treatment of opioid use disorder, and reduced opioid-related acute care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Skoy
- North Dakota State University School of Pharmacy, PO Box 6050, Dept 2660, Fargo, ND 58108.
| | - Oliver Frenzel
- North Dakota State University School of Pharmacy, Fargo, North Dakota.,North Dakota State University School of Public Health, Fargo, North Dakota
| | - Heidi Eukel
- North Dakota State University School of Pharmacy, Fargo, North Dakota
| | - Emily Lothspeich
- North Dakota State University School of Pharmacy, Fargo, North Dakota
| | - Jayme Steig
- North Dakota State University School of Pharmacy, Fargo, North Dakota
| | - Mark Strand
- North Dakota State University School of Pharmacy, Fargo, North Dakota.,North Dakota State University School of Public Health, Fargo, North Dakota
| | - Amy Werremeyer
- North Dakota State University School of Pharmacy, Fargo, North Dakota
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13
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Opioid risk stratification in the community pharmacy: The utility of the Opioid Risk Tool. Res Social Adm Pharm 2022; 18:4065-4071. [DOI: 10.1016/j.sapharm.2022.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Revised: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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14
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Werremeyer A, Strand MA, Eukel H, Skoy E, Steig J, Frenzel O. Longitudinal evaluation of pharmacists’ social distance preference and attitudes toward patients with opioid misuse following an educational training program. Subst Abuse 2022; 43:1051-1056. [DOI: 10.1080/08897077.2022.2060449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Amy Werremeyer
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND, USA
| | - Mark A. Strand
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND, USA
| | - Heidi Eukel
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND, USA
| | - Elizabeth Skoy
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND, USA
| | - Jayme Steig
- Quality Health Associates of North Dakota, Minot, ND, USA
| | - Oliver Frenzel
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND, USA
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15
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Sud A, Molska GR, Salamanca-Buentello F. Evaluations of Continuing Health Provider Education Focused on Opioid Prescribing: A Scoping Review. ACADEMIC MEDICINE : JOURNAL OF THE ASSOCIATION OF AMERICAN MEDICAL COLLEGES 2022; 97:286-299. [PMID: 34074902 PMCID: PMC8781229 DOI: 10.1097/acm.0000000000004186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Continuing health provider education (HPE) is an important intervention supported by health policy to counter the opioid epidemic; knowledge regarding appropriate program design and evaluation is lacking. The authors aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of evaluations of opioid-related continuing HPE programs and their appropriateness as interventions to improve population health. METHOD In January 2020, the authors conducted a systematic search of 7 databases, seeking studies of HPE programs on opioid analgesic prescribing and overdose prevention. Reviewers independently screened the titles and abstracts of all studies and then assessed the full texts of all studies potentially eligible for inclusion. The authors extracted a range of data using categories for evaluating complex programs: the use of theory, program purpose, inputs, activities, outputs, outcomes, and industry involvement. Results were reported in a narrative synthesis. RESULTS Thirty-nine reports on 32 distinct HPE programs met inclusion criteria. Of these 32, 31 (97%) were U.S./Canadian programs and 28 (88%) were reported after 2010. Measurements of changes in knowledge and confidence were common. Performance outcomes were less common and typically self-reported. Most studies (n = 27 [84%]) used concerns of opioid-related harms at the population health level to justify the educational intervention, but only 5 (16%) measured patient- or population-level outcomes directly related to the educational programs. Six programs (19%) had direct or indirect opioid manufacturer involvement. CONCLUSIONS Continuing HPE has been promoted as an important means of addressing population-level opioid-related harms by policymakers and educators, yet published evaluations of HPE programs focusing on opioid analgesics inadequately evaluate patient- or population-level outcomes. Instead, they primarily focus on self-reported performance outcomes. Conceptual models are needed to guide the development and evaluation of continuing HPE programs intended to have population health benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhimanyu Sud
- A. Sud is assistant professor, Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8354-6153
| | - Graziella R. Molska
- G.R. Molska was research coordinator, Bridgepoint Collaboratory for Research and Innovation, Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada at the time this work was completed
| | - Fabio Salamanca-Buentello
- F. Salamanca-Buentello is a postdoctoral fellow, Bridgepoint Collaboratory for Research and Innovation, Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3666-7785
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16
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Frenzel O, Eukel H, Lothspeich E, Skoy E, Steig J, Strand M, Werremeyer A. Opioid risk screening: Program evaluation from the community pharmacists' perspective. J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) 2021; 62:859-863.e1. [PMID: 34953730 DOI: 10.1016/j.japh.2021.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Revised: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pharmacist-implemented screening programs can be improved through continuous program evaluation. Pharmacists are in a position to determine whether interventions are realistic and efficacious when used in practice. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study is to evaluate how community pharmacists perceive the use of an opioid risk screening for patients receiving opioid prescriptions and the associated implications for improved patient-centered care. METHODS North Dakota community pharmacists received training on the use of an opioid risk tool for all patients filling an opioid prescription to evaluate for opioid misuse and overdose risk potential. Pharmacists then implemented the screening in their community pharmacy to screen all patients prescribed an opioid. Six months after implementation, pharmacists across the state were surveyed regarding their perception of the value of screening patients for the risk of opioid misuse and overdose. The survey questions used the Joint Committee on Standards for Educational Evaluation focusing on utility, propriety, feasibility, and accuracy. RESULTS All pharmacists (n = 35) indicated the opioid risk screening improved patient communication and patient-centered interventions. A total of 97% of pharmacists agreed the opioid screening tool provided an objective measure in providing care to patients and improved the potential for patient safety during prescription opioid use. Although 66% of pharmacists disagreed that the screening process was time consuming, 14% of respondents agreed with this statement indicating they may require additional assistance to optimize their workflow. CONCLUSION The results of this study support that opioid risk screening ensures utility for opioid risk stratification, feasibility to incorporate into existing workflow, and propriety for patient safety and well-being.
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17
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Vadiei N, Eldridge LA, Meyerson BE, Agley J. "The gatekeepers in prevention": Community pharmacist perceptions of their role in the opioid epidemic. Subst Abus 2021; 43:319-327. [PMID: 34214407 DOI: 10.1080/08897077.2021.1941516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Community pharmacists are at the frontline of patient care, yet their role in the opioid epidemic remains unclear. This qualitative study examines the perception of community pharmacists about their role in the opioid epidemic and challenges to fulfilling this role. Methods: A secondary analysis of cross-sectional survey data from an Indiana census of community managing pharmacists was conducted. Qualitative data were coded using a priori and emergent themes. A priori categories included the perceived role of pharmacists in the opioid epidemic and perception of practice barriers. Results: A total of 215 Indiana community managing pharmacists participated in this study. Pharmacists understood themselves as gatekeepers in preventing opioid misuse and overdose. Reported pharmacy practices included providing patient education and communicating with prescribers. Challenges to fulfilling this role included pharmacy structure and operation, lack of patient and provider clarity about pharmacist scope of practice, and pharmacist perception that that there is no available discretionary time to support additional services. Conclusion: Pharmacists believe they have a vital role in combatting opioid misuse and overdose but are hampered by structural aspects of pharmacy practice and lack of recognition of their role. Pharmacy associations and policy partners are encouraged to identify opportunities to address these barriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Vadiei
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Science, The University of Arizona College of Pharmacy, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Lori Ann Eldridge
- Department of Applied Health Science, Indiana University School of Public Health - Bloomington, Bloomington, IN, USA.,Prevention Insights, Institute for Research on Addictive Behavior, Indiana University School of Public Health - Bloomington, Bloomington, IN, USA
| | - Beth E Meyerson
- Southwest Institute for Research on Women, College of Social & Behavioral Sciences, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA.,Family & Community Medicine, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Jon Agley
- Department of Applied Health Science, Indiana University School of Public Health - Bloomington, Bloomington, IN, USA.,Prevention Insights, Institute for Research on Addictive Behavior, Indiana University School of Public Health - Bloomington, Bloomington, IN, USA
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18
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Werremeyer A, Mosher S, Eukel H, Skoy E, Steig J, Frenzel O, Strand MA. Pharmacists' stigma toward patients engaged in opioid misuse: When "social distance" does not mean disease prevention. Subst Abus 2021; 42:919-926. [PMID: 33750283 DOI: 10.1080/08897077.2021.1900988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Background: Health professionals may stigmatize and prefer social distance from patients with opioid misuse, leading to poorer quality of care provided. The degree to which pharmacists prefer social distance from patients with opioid misuse and opioid use disorder (OUD) is not known. Methods: Pharmacists (n = 187) completed a survey comprised of demographics, attitudinal, and Social Distance Scale (SDS) questions based on a vignette patient who displayed opioid misuse. SDS question responses and total scores (maximum of 30; higher scores representing great preference for social distance) were tallied and associations with attitudes and demographics were examined. Results: Mean SDS total score was 16.32 (range 9-23). More than 59% of respondents had an SDS score >15, indicating overall lack of willingness to interact with the vignette patient. Females had a higher mean SDS score vs male pharmacists (16.58 vs. 15.36, respectively; p = 0.023). Pharmacists were more likely to prefer social distance from the vignette patient in personal situations (i.e. renting a room) than work-related interactions (i.e. providing patient education). Pharmacists with >10 years of experience, those without personal experience with a substance use disorder, those who strongly agreed that patients with OUD require excessive time and effort, and those who agreed that some people lack self-discipline to use prescription pain medication without becoming addicted had significantly higher SDS scores than pharmacists without these characteristics. Conclusions: Pharmacists expressed significant preference for social distance indicating stigmatization of patients with opioid misuse. Pharmacists were comfortable performing pharmacy tasks with patients with opioid misuse, but were less comfortable forming therapeutic relationships, an important tenet of patient-centered care. Efforts are needed to examine contributions to social distance preferences and implement measures to reduce them. Targeting of pharmacists with >10 years' experience and without personal experience with OUD may also be most beneficial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Werremeyer
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, North Dakota State University, Fargo, North Dakota, USA
| | - Sydney Mosher
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, North Dakota State University, Fargo, North Dakota, USA
| | - Heidi Eukel
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, North Dakota State University, Fargo, North Dakota, USA
| | - Elizabeth Skoy
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, North Dakota State University, Fargo, North Dakota, USA
| | - Jayme Steig
- Quality Health Associates of North Dakota, Minot, North Dakota, USA
| | - Oliver Frenzel
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, North Dakota State University, Fargo, North Dakota, USA
| | - Mark A Strand
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, North Dakota State University, Fargo, North Dakota, USA
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19
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Evoy KE, Hill LG, Davis CS. Considering the Potential Benefits of Over-the-Counter Naloxone. INTEGRATED PHARMACY RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2021; 10:13-21. [PMID: 33623754 PMCID: PMC7894851 DOI: 10.2147/iprp.s244709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Since 1999, annual opioid-related overdose (ORO) mortality has increased more than six-fold. In response to this crisis, the US Department of Health and Human Services outlined a 5-point strategy to reduce ORO mortality which included the widespread distribution of naloxone, an opioid antagonist that can rapidly reverse an opioid overdose. Increased distribution has been facilitated by the implementation of naloxone access laws in each US state aimed at increasing community access to naloxone. While these laws differ from state-to-state, most contain mechanisms to enable pharmacists to dispense naloxone without a patient-specific prescription. These laws have enhanced community naloxone distribution, both from pharmacies and overdose education and naloxone distribution programs, and produced positive effects on ORO mortality. However, a growing body of evidence has revealed that significant barriers to naloxone access from pharmacies remain, and annual ORO deaths have continued to climb. Given these concerns, there has been a push among some clinicians and policymakers for the US Food and Drug Administration to re-classify naloxone as an over-the-counter (OTC) medication as a means to further increase its accessibility. If an OTC transition occurs, educational outreach and funding for clinical innovations will continue to be crucial given the important role of health professionals in recommending naloxone to people at risk for experiencing or witnessing an ORO. Recognizing the severity of the ORO public health crisis, we believe transitioning formulations of naloxone approved for layperson use to OTC status would result in a net benefit through increased access. However, such a change should be combined with measures to ensure affordability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirk E Evoy
- University Health, Department of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Lucas G Hill
- Pharmacy Practice, The University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy, Austin, TX, USA
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20
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Gadd S, Cox N, Samuelson J, Kenney A, Turner K, Cochran G. Abuse-Deterrent Opioid Formulations and the Opioid Crisis: A Pharmacist's Perspective. Ther Drug Monit 2021; 43:35-41. [PMID: 33278243 DOI: 10.1097/ftd.0000000000000844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 11/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND For over 20 years, the United States has suffered the detrimental effects of an opioid epidemic. Extended-release opioid products are particularly prone to abuse due to the high amount of opioid present. By bypassing the controlled-release mechanisms and nonoral administration, individuals experience intense and dangerous "highs." Abuse-deterrent opioid formulations have been recommended as a potential solution to the crisis, but widespread utilization has been stunted and their role in therapy remains unclear owing to limited real-world efficacy data and affordability issues. This review discusses abuse-deterrent opioid formulations, the mechanisms and data underlying available products, and a pharmacist's perspective of their role in the opioid crisis. METHODS The authors reviewed PubMed, MEDLINE, and Google Scholar electronic databases for premarketing and postmarketing studies on OxyContin, Xtampza ER, and Hysingla ER. RESULTS Studies showed lower rates of abuse (19% reduction), opioid use disorder (27%), overdose (34%), and fatalities (85%) with the reformulated OxyContin when compared with the original product and comparator opioids. However, these studies revealed the potential for bypassing abuse-deterrent mechanisms and diverting abuse to other drugs. Postmarketing studies are unavailable for Xtampza ER or Hysingla ER, although premarketing studies suggested that some controlled-release properties persist when the product is manipulated, indicating that abuse may be more difficult and less rewarding. CONCLUSIONS Abuse-deterrent opioid products may lead to reductions in abuse, overdose, and overdose fatalities. However, cost, loopholes in deterrence mechanism, and possible diversion to other substances hinder their role in the opioid crisis. Multiple approaches must be used to improve opioid safety, and further postmarketing and real-world analyses should be performed on available opioid formulations to assess their impact on abuse-related adverse events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon Gadd
- Department of Pharmacotherapy, College of Pharmacy, University of Utah
| | - Nicholas Cox
- Department of Pharmacotherapy, College of Pharmacy, University of Utah
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Utah Health
| | - James Samuelson
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Program for Addiction Research, Clinical Care, Knowledge, and Advocacy, School of Medicine, University of Utah; and
| | - Amy Kenney
- Division of Epidemiology, School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
| | - Kyle Turner
- Department of Pharmacotherapy, College of Pharmacy, University of Utah
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Utah Health
| | - Gerald Cochran
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Program for Addiction Research, Clinical Care, Knowledge, and Advocacy, School of Medicine, University of Utah; and
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21
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Freibott CE, Walker A, Maio V, Frasso R. Educational programs implemented for pharmacists after state passage of a standing order for naloxone: A systematic review of current practices. J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) 2021; 61:e19-e27. [PMID: 33386240 DOI: 10.1016/j.japh.2020.11.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Revised: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This review describes the current educational interventions that have been created for pharmacists after the implementation of a standing order for naloxone. METHODS Search strategies were constructed for 3 databases (PubMed, SCOPUS, and CINAHL), which were queried between February 1, 2019, and March 5, 2019. Two reviewers independently screened 224 titles and abstracts from these databases. The descriptive criteria of each study, such as rationale, design, study location, population, and method of intervention, were included. RESULTS Eight articles met the inclusion criteria; 4 were delivered in person, 2 were online programs, and 2 used combined in-person and online methodologies. Of the 8 studies, 4 were delivered to practicing pharmacists, and 4 were designed for student pharmacists. CONCLUSION Pharmacists seem to engage in more overdose prevention behaviors after participating in the novel educational program as compared with taking the state-mandated training alone. Both student pharmacists and practicing pharmacists had promising postintervention results, with post-test scores indicating a statistically significant increase in knowledge or improvement in naloxone-relevant skills. The results of this review indicate the need to critically analyze the implementation of standing order laws for naloxone, specifically how pharmacists are being trained. The next steps include publication of existing best practices for educational interventions for pharmacists that may not currently be in the literature.
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22
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Frenzel OC, Eukel H, Skoy E, Werremeyer A, Steig J, Strand M. Examining Attitudes and Beliefs that Inhibit Pharmacist Implementation of a Statewide Opioid Harm Reduction Program. Innov Pharm 2020; 11. [PMID: 34007648 PMCID: PMC8127110 DOI: 10.24926/iip.v11i4.3446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: A statewide opioid risk screening program was introduced to pharmacists to provide them with resources to screen patients who are prescribed an opioid medication. Using opioid risk screening equips pharmacists to deliver education and patient-centered interventions for opioid harm reduction. Nearly 50% of pharmacists that enrolled their pharmacy to participate in this program did not actively implement the program to patients. Little research is dedicated to examining factors which contribute to unsuccessful implementation of pharmacy-centered interventions. This research aims to describe barriers and beliefs which may hinder the ability of pharmacists to integrate innovative practices into existing workflow. Objectives: Using the theory of planned behavior, determine what attitudes and beliefs contribute to unsuccessful implementation of opioid risk screening. Methods: A survey was developed within the context of a theoretical framework and distributed to pharmacists who did not successfully implement opioid risk screening 12 month following program inception. Attitude, subjective norm, and perceived behavioral control constructs of the theory of planned behavior were used to identify barriers to opioid risk screening implementation. The responses were analyzed using Mann-Whitney U test, ANOVA, and descriptive statistics. Results: Twenty-three pharmacists consented to participate in this study and 17 pharmacists completed the survey (response rate 74%). Pharmacists indicated positive attitudes toward reducing negative opioid outcomes for patients using opioid medications. Positive subjective norm responses indicated a perception that patients and collaborative healthcare providers would approve of pharmacists using opioid risk screening for patients. The highest proportion of negative responses was observed in the perceived behavioral control construct which included difficulty in offering the screening and unsuccessful integration of past interventions. Conclusions These results suggest that perceived behavioral control of pharmacists is the most influential factor in unsuccessful implementation of opioid risk screening.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Heidi Eukel
- North Dakota State University, School of Pharmacy
| | | | | | | | - Mark Strand
- North Dakota State University, School of Pharmacy
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23
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Strand MA, DiPietro Mager NA, Hall L, Martin SL, Sarpong DF. Pharmacy Contributions to Improved Population Health: Expanding the Public Health Roundtable. Prev Chronic Dis 2020; 17:E113. [PMID: 32975507 PMCID: PMC7553224 DOI: 10.5888/pcd17.200350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Mark A Strand
- School of Pharmacy, College of Health Professions, North Dakota State University, 118K Sudro Hall, Fargo, ND 58101.
| | | | - Lori Hall
- Division of Strategic National Stockpile, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Sarah Levin Martin
- Department of Community Health, University of Maine at Farmington, Farmington, Maine
| | - Daniel F Sarpong
- Center for Minority Health and Health Disparities Research and Education, College of Pharmacy, Xavier University of Louisiana, New Orleans, Louisiana
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24
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Strand MA, Eukel H, Frenzel O, Skoy E, Steig J, Werremeyer A. Program evaluation of the Opioid and Naloxone Education (ONE Rx) program using the RE-AIM model. Res Social Adm Pharm 2020; 16:1248-1254. [DOI: 10.1016/j.sapharm.2019.11.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2019] [Revised: 11/18/2019] [Accepted: 11/29/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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25
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Thakur T, Chewning B. Using role theory to explore pharmacist role conflict in opioid risks communication. Res Social Adm Pharm 2020; 16:1121-1126. [DOI: 10.1016/j.sapharm.2019.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2019] [Revised: 11/20/2019] [Accepted: 11/20/2019] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
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26
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Spivey CA, Wilder A, Chisholm-Burns MA, Stallworth S, Wheeler J. Evaluation of naloxone access, pricing, and barriers to dispensing in Tennessee retail community pharmacies. J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) 2020; 60:694-701.e1. [PMID: 32146134 DOI: 10.1016/j.japh.2020.01.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2019] [Revised: 01/16/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Tennessee has one of the highest rates of opioid prescribing in the United States; therefore, the objectives of this study were to examine availability, pricing, and pharmacist-initiated recommendations of naloxone in retail community pharmacies in Eastern and Western Tennessee; to identify the most common barriers to naloxone dispensing and strategies to improve access; and to determine regional differences in access to naloxone. DESIGN A cross-sectional survey conducted via telephone. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS All retail community pharmacies located in the most populous counties in the eastern and western regions of Tennessee were eligible for inclusion, as were all retail community pharmacies in the 5 counties in each region that had the highest rates of opioid prescriptions (316 pharmacies identified in 12 counties). OUTCOME MEASURES Outcome measures included availability, price, and pharmacist-initiated recommendations of naloxone products, barriers to dispensing, and suggestions to improve naloxone access. Survey responses were summarized as descriptive statistics. Chi-square, independent samples t test, and inductive content analysis were conducted. RESULTS Response rate was 56.3%. Most participants (92.7%) reported that naloxone (Narcan) was available from their pharmacies at a mean cash price of $132.49, with no statistically significant differences between regions. The most commonly reported barrier was cost (70.2%). When queried about recommendations to various groups at a high risk of overdose, as advised by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 42.1% to 69.1% of pharmacies reported recommending naloxone to at least 50% of high-risk patients. Suggestions to increase naloxone access included lowering the cost and improving naloxone-related education for patients, pharmacists, and other providers. CONCLUSION Although Narcan was widely available, cost was a frequently cited barrier to dispensing. Pharmacist-initiated recommendations for coprescribing and dispensing naloxone to patients at a high risk of overdose were limited. Addressing cost issues in addition to increasing patient and pharmacist education concerning the use and benefit of naloxone were suggested to improve naloxone access.
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Eukel H, Steig J, Frenzel O, Skoy E, Werremeyer A, Strand M. Opioid Misuse and Overdose: Changes in Pharmacist Practices and Outcomes. THE JOURNAL OF CONTINUING EDUCATION IN THE HEALTH PROFESSIONS 2020; 40:242-247. [PMID: 33284175 DOI: 10.1097/ceh.0000000000000317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Continuing education (CE) provides educational opportunities for health professionals to adequately respond to issues in practice but infrequently evaluate sustained practice change. The opioid epidemic has risen to the forefront of health priorities in our nation. The Opioid and Naloxone Education (ONE Rx) CE program provides pharmacists the opportunity to expand their abilities and impact in the opioid crisis. METHODS ONE Rx CE included risk assessment for opioid misuse/overdose, role of naloxone, disease of addiction, and communication strategies for patients and providers. Pharmacists who completed the CE screened patients and provided interventions over 12 months. CE participants were provided presurveys, postsurveys, and delayed postsurveys coordinated with the educational program. The Kirkpatrick Model was used to evaluate the effectiveness of the program by examining the four levels of assessment: reaction, commitment, behavior, and results. RESULTS The Kirkpatrick Model was used to evaluate the impact of the CE. Reaction: 97% of respondents recommended the ONE Rx program. Commitment: 77% of respondents indicated commitment to provide ONE Rx opioid risk screening and interventions to patients. Behavior: Twelve months after training, pharmacists registered to prescribe naloxone increased by 67% and the number of pharmacists reporting naloxone dispensing doubled from 23% to 46%. OUTCOMES Pharmacist interventions included medication take back programs explained (88.4%), naloxone dispensing to high-risk patients (10.9%), and discussion of opioid use disorder with patients with risk factors (49%). CONCLUSION By using the Kirkpatrick Model, the ONE Rx CE program demonstrated high-quality opioid and naloxone education to pharmacists. Survey results and opioid harm reduction interventions indicate the CE resulted in sustained pharmacy practice behavior change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heidi Eukel
- Ms. Eukel: Associate Professor, Department of Pharmacy Practice, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND. Mr. Steig: Quality Improvement Program Manager, Quality Health Associates of North Dakota, Minot, ND. Mr. Frenzel: Department of Pharmacy Practice, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND. Ms. Skoy: Associate Professor, Department of Pharmacy Practice, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND. Ms. Werremeyer: Associate Professor and Chair, Department of Pharmacy Practice, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND. Dr. Strand: Professor, Department of Pharmacy Practice, Master of Public Health Program, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND
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Skoy E, Eukel H, Werremeyer A, Strand M, Frenzel O, Steig J. Implementation of a statewide program within community pharmacies to prevent opioid misuse and accidental overdose. J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) 2020; 60:117-121. [DOI: 10.1016/j.japh.2019.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2019] [Revised: 09/03/2019] [Accepted: 09/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
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Strand MA, Eukel H. A Primary Prevention Approach to the Opioid Epidemic. Am J Public Health 2019; 109:861-863. [PMID: 31067108 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2019.305060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mark A Strand
- Mark A. Strand is professor in the School of Pharmacy and the Master of Public Health Program, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND. Heidi Eukel is associate professor of practice in the School of Pharmacy, North Dakota State University
| | - Heidi Eukel
- Mark A. Strand is professor in the School of Pharmacy and the Master of Public Health Program, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND. Heidi Eukel is associate professor of practice in the School of Pharmacy, North Dakota State University
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Abstract
Across all care environments, pharmacists play an essential role in the care of people who use and misuse psychoactive substances, including those diagnosed with substance use disorders. To optimize, sustain, and expand these independent and collaborative roles, the Association for Multidisciplinary Education and Research in Substance Use and Addiction (AMERSA) has developed core competencies for pharmacists to address substance use in the 21st century. Key concepts, skills, and attitudes are outlined, with links to entrustable professional activities to assist with integration into a variety of ideally interdisciplinary curricular activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey Bratberg
- Pharmacy Practice, University of Rhode Island College of Pharmacy, Kingston, Rhode Island, USA
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