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Bacci JL, Pollack SW, Skillman SM, Odegard PS, Danielson JH, Frogner BK. Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Community Pharmacy Workforce. Med Care Res Rev 2024; 81:39-48. [PMID: 37830446 DOI: 10.1177/10775587231204101] [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] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
This study sought to describe the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on community pharmacy practice and its workforce. Interviews were conducted with 18 key informants from pharmacy associations and community pharmacists representing chain and independent pharmacy organizations across the United States from January to May 2022. Interview notes were analyzed using a rapid content analysis approach. Four themes resulted: (a) patient care at community pharmacies focused on fulfilling COVID-19 response needs; (b) pharmacists' history as immunizers and scope of practice expansions facilitated COVID-19 response efforts; (c) workforce supply shortages impeded COVID-19 response efforts and contributed to burnout; and (d) maintaining community pharmacy workforce's readiness will be critical to future emergency preparedness and response efforts. Formalizing scope of practice expansion policies and reimbursement pathways deployed during the COVID-19 pandemic could facilitate the community pharmacy workforce's ability to address ongoing public health needs and respond to future public health emergencies.
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Romero-Mancilla MS, Mora-Vargas J, Ruiz A. Pharmacy-based immunization: a systematic review. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1152556. [PMID: 37124782 PMCID: PMC10133503 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1152556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic has prompted the exploration of new response strategies for such health contingencies in the near future. Over the last 15 years, several pharmacy-based immunization (PBI) strategies have emerged seeking to exploit the potential of pharmacies as immunization, medication sale, and rapid test centers. However, the participation of pharmacies during the last pandemic was very uneven from one country to another, suggesting a lack of consensus on the definition of their roles and gaps between the literature and practice. Purpose This study aimed to consolidate the current state of the literature on PBI, document its progress over time, and identify the gaps not yet addressed. Moreover, this study seeks to (i) provide new researchers with an overview of the studies on PBI and (ii) to inform both public health and private organization managers on the range of possible immunization models and strategies. Methodology A systematic review of scientific qualitative and quantitative studies on the most important scientific databases was conducted. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyzes guidelines were followed. Finally, this study discusses the trends, challenges, and limitations on the existing literature on PBI. Findings Must studies concluded that PBI is a beneficial strategy for the population, particularly in terms of accessibility and territorial equity. However, the effectiveness of PBI is affected by the economic, political, and/or social context of the region. The collaboration between the public (government and health departments) and private (various pharmacy chains) sectors contributes to PBI's success. Originality Unlike previous literature reviews on PBI that compiled qualitative and statistical studies, this study reviewed studies proposing mathematical optimization methods to approach PBI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marisol S. Romero-Mancilla
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, School of Engineering and Science, Monterrey, Mexico
- *Correspondence: Marisol S. Romero-Mancilla
| | - Jaime Mora-Vargas
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, School of Engineering and Science, Monterrey, Mexico
| | - Angel Ruiz
- Faculty of Business Administration, Laval University, Quebec, QC, Canada
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Muhammad K, Baraka MA, Shah SS, Butt MH, Wali H, Saqlain M, Mallhi TH, Hayat K, Fahelelbom KM, Joseph R, Khan YH. Exploring the perception and readiness of Pharmacists towards telepharmacy implementation; a cross sectional analysis. PeerJ 2022; 10:e13296. [PMID: 35637711 PMCID: PMC9147315 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.13296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Amid the turbulent nature of the COVID-19 pandemic, telepharmacy has shifted the paradigm of patient care by leveraging digital medicine. Government mandated lockdowns and norms of social distancing have further underscored the need for telepharmacy. Many developed and developing countries implemented such initiatives where pharmacists have provided tele-pharmacy services via telecommunications. However, the implementation and utilization of tele-pharmacy services are quite negligible in resource limited settings due to financial and administrative constraints. This study was aimed to ascertain the perception and readiness of pharmacists working in various sectors of a resource limiting country. Methodology A cross sectional study was carried out in all provinces of Pakistan to explore the perceptions of pharmacists towards telepharmacy implementation through a 35-items study instrument. The collected data was analyzed descriptively and scored accordingly. The chi-square test was used for inferential analysis on pharmacist's perception regarding implementation of tele-pharmacy with their demographics. Results Of 380 pharmacists, the mean age is 27.67 ± 3.67 years with a preponderance of male pharmacists (n = 238, 62.6%). The pharmacists (n = 321, 84.5%) perceived that telepharmacy implementation improves patient's quality of life and decreases patients' visits (n = 291, 76.6%). Overall, pharmacists (n = 227, 59.7%) had negative perception towards benefits of telepharmacy implementation, but pharmacists had positive perception towards eligibility (n = 258, 67.9%), regulatory issues (n = 271, 71.3%) and telepharmacy during pandemic and beyond (n = 312, 82.1%). In chi-square testing gender (p = 0.03) and age (p = 0.03) had a significant association with perception regarding regulatory issues. Among perception regarding telepharmacy during COVID-19 pandemic and beyond age had a significant association (p = 0.03). Among perception regarding eligibility job location of pharmacists had significant association (p = 0.04). Conclusion The majority of pharmacists had a positive perception regarding the eligibility of patients and regulatory issues/legal framework regarding the implementation of tele-pharmacy, as well as its use during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond. The implementation of tele-pharmacy can play a major role in providing timely and better patient care to remote patient areas and may help in the prevention and treatment of different infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khayal Muhammad
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Near East University, Northern Cyprus,Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Abasyn University, Peshawar, KPK, Pakistan
| | - Mohamed A. Baraka
- Clinical Pharmacy Program, College of Pharmacy, Al Ain University, Al-Ain, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates,Clinical Pharmacy Department, College of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Nasr city, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Syed Sikandar Shah
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, European University of Lefke, Lefke, Cyprus
| | | | - Haytham Wali
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Clinical Pharmacy, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muhammad Saqlain
- Department of Pharmacy, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Tauqeer Hussain Mallhi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka, Al-Jouf Province, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Khezar Hayat
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Khairi Mustafa Fahelelbom
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Program, College of Pharmacy, Al-Ain University, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Royes Joseph
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Clinical Pharmacy, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Yusra Habib Khan
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka, Al-Jouf Province, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
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Targeting COVID Vaccine Hesitancy in Rural Communities in Tennessee: Implications for Extending the COVID-19 Pandemic in the South. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:vaccines9111279. [PMID: 34835210 PMCID: PMC8621887 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9111279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2021] [Revised: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Approximately 40% of Tennesseans are vaccinated fully, due mainly to higher vaccination levels within urban counties. Significantly lower rates are observed in rural counties. Surveys suggest COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy is entrenched mostly among individuals identifying as white, rural, Republican, and evangelical Christian. Rural counties represent 70 of the total 95 counties in Tennessee, and vaccine hesitancy signifies an immediate public health crisis likely to extend the COVID-19 pandemic. Tennessee is a microcosm of the pandemic’s condition in the Southern U.S. Unvaccinated communities are the greatest contributors of new COVID-19 infections, hospitalizations, and deaths. Rural Tennesseans have a long history of cultural conservatism, poor health literacy, and distrust of government and medical establishments and are more susceptible to misinformation and conspiracy theories. Development of novel strategies to increase vaccine acceptance is essential. Here, I examine the basis of COVID-19 following SARS-CoV-2 infection and summarize the pandemic’s extent in the South, current vaccination rates and efforts across Tennessee, and underlying factors contributing to vaccine hesitancy. Finally, I discuss specific strategies to combat COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy. We must develop novel strategies that go beyond financial incentives, proven ineffective toward vaccinations. Successful strategies for vaccine acceptance of rural Tennesseans could increase acceptance among unvaccinated rural U.S. populations.
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McDermott K. Utilizing diagnostic pharmacists to support Family Medicine Walk-In clinics during the COVID-19 pandemic. J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) 2021; 62:612-619. [PMID: 34802944 PMCID: PMC8539209 DOI: 10.1016/j.japh.2021.10.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Revised: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Background During the coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, physician focus shifted from continuity of care to pandemic duties. However, patients still required in-person visits for acute or chronic complaints. Specially trained pharmacists were utilized to alleviate Family Medicine Walk-In (FMWI) provider shortages. Objective To describe the innovative practice utilizing diagnostic pharmacists in FMWI, evaluate their impact on provider time, compare workload with traditional advanced practice providers (APPs), and evaluate type of visits and medications prescribed. Practice description Pharmacists at an Indian Health Service medical center staffed FMWI 2.5 days per week to alleviate provider shortages during the COVID-19 pandemic. The privileged pharmacist had a diagnostic scope like APPs. Non-privileged pharmacists provided care to patients utilizing current protocols and were required to present all new complaints to providers. Practice innovation The facility utilized pharmacists that have completed or were progressing through the local diagnostic training program to alleviate provider shortages. Evaluation methods The absolute number of visits by pharmacists was determined and the number of provider hours shifted to pharmacy estimated. The number of visits by provider type was calculated and compared. ICD-10 codes were evaluated for purpose of visits. New prescriptions written by pharmacists were categorized and reimbursement rates determined. Results Pharmacists were responsible for 677 visits during 88 clinic days, with an estimated 338 provider hours shifted to pharmacists. Pharmacists saw 5.8 patients per day, APPs 5.2, and physicians 5.7. Pharmacists primarily evaluated hypertension, diabetes, musculoskeletal, and infectious disease complaints. New prescription categories included pain management, endocrine, cardiovascular, and infectious disease. The single billable pharmacist was reimbursed $77,945. Conclusion Diagnostic pharmacists in FMWI have allowed providers to shift to other pandemic duties and demonstrate similar workload as APPs. Most visits and prescriptions fall within known pharmacist practice. Pharmacists in this setting pay for the existence of this position and remain integrated in FMWI.
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Al Meslamani AZ, Kassem AB, El‐Bassiouny NA, Ibrahim OM. An emergency plan for management of COVID-19 patients in rural areas. Int J Clin Pract 2021; 75:e14563. [PMID: 34165849 PMCID: PMC8420210 DOI: 10.1111/ijcp.14563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS OF THE STUDY To describe the experience of six hospitals in the management of COVID-19 patients in rural areas through an assessment of proportions, types and clinical outcomes of remote clinical interventions. METHODS This was a prospective observational study conducted in six Egyptian hospitals over a period five months. An emergency response was implemented in each hospital in order to connect clinical pharmacists with COVID-19 patients living in rural areas. Pharmacists used phone calls and social media applications, such as WhatsApp® to conduct two types of interventions; (a) Proactive interventions and (b) outcome-based interventions. IBM SPSS V26 was used for data analysis. RESULTS Of the 418 patients included, 351 (83.97%) recovered, 60 (14.35%) were hospitalised and 7 (1.67%) were deceased. Medication orders per patient, high-alert medications per patient and prescribing errors per patient were 5.82, 1.45 and 0.74, respectively. Telepharmacy teams conducted 3318 phone calls, 2116 WhatsApp® chats and 1128 interventions, of which 812 (71.92%) were process-based and 316 (27.98%) were outcome-based. Among these interventions, four significant determinants of improvement in clinical outcomes were found: substitution of a prescribed drug (Adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 4.03; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.54-5.87), adding a drug to the prescription (AOR = 3.15; 95% CI, 1.87-4.76), advice the patient to stop smoking (AOR = 3.53; 95% CI, 1.98-5.17) and cessation of drug therapy (AOR = 3.11; 95% CI, 1.25-4.55). The most common medications involved in drug-related interventions were Hydroxychloroquine, Azithromycin and Paracetamol. CONCLUSION Our findings demonstrate significant impact of the remote pharmacist interventions on both medicines use and clinical outcomes of COVID-19 patients in rural areas. Pharmacists in developing countries should be supported to implement remote clinical services to provide patients in rural places with optimal care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Amira B. Kassem
- Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Practice DepartmentFaculty of PharmacyDamanhour UniversityDamanhourEgypt
| | - Noha A. El‐Bassiouny
- Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Practice DepartmentFaculty of PharmacyDamanhour UniversityDamanhourEgypt
| | - Osama Mohamed Ibrahim
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and PharmacotherapeuticsCollege of University of SharjahSharjahUAE
- Department of Clinical PharmacyFaculty of PharmacyCairo UniversityCairoEgypt
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Browne T, McKinney SH, Duck L, Blake EW, Baliko B, English S, Christopher R. Preparing Health Professions Students to Serve Southern Rural Communities in the Time of COVID-19 and Beyond: A Model for Interprofessional Online Telehealth Education. South Med J 2021; 114:665-667. [PMID: 34599348 PMCID: PMC8505031 DOI: 10.14423/smj.0000000000001300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Gagan R, Hirak D. Healthcare Optimization, Medication Management and Preparedness in Retail Pharmacy Industry during the Covid-19 Pandemic in India. CARDIOMETRY 2021. [DOI: 10.18137/cardiometry.2021.19.6877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
BODY: Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic is a health crisis,which has almost impacted every industry, causing steep inroadsinto the global economy, and the pharmaceutical industryis no exception. Retail pharmacists are the most approachableand immediate healthcare aid to the general public. Pharmacistscan implement guidance and best practices in responseto the rapidly changing COVID-19 pandemic to ensure patientand staff safety and the approaches pharmacy teams acrossthe country. Social distancing and lockdown measures taken bythe Indian government have been greatly affected by the retailpharmacy industry, leading to disruption in the supply chainof medicines and other precautionary equipment. Medicationmanagement, necessary safety equipment, and preparednessfor handling drug shortages are the focus points for the retailpharmacy industry in these times of the pandemic. As the retailpharmacy comes under essential services and is operatingcontinuously during the lockdown period, there is a need tohighlight and gauge the preparedness and preventive measuresundertaken by pharmacists in India during this medicalemergency.AIM: This research aims to analyze the retail pharmacy administrationin India towards essential medication, to check adherenceto key preventative measures and activities performed ininpatient counseling for self-management and safe dispensingof medicines in COVID-19 & lockdown period and the barriersfaced/concerns towards these measures.METHODOLOGY: This study is based on methods of quantitativeanalysis from retail pharmacies in India. The survey questionnairewas drafted on Google forms and sent to various retailpharmacy outlets. The data pertains to various medications’storage and consumption pattern, concerns over day-to-dayactivities in the pharmacy, and preventive measures implementedby pharmacists towards COVID-19 preparedness.RESULT: 167 pharmacists addressed the questionnaire acrossvarious regions of the country by different types of pharmacy:community pharmacy (66.5%), retail pharmacy section in a private(14.4%) and public hospital (11.4%), and clinical pharmacy(7.8%). The statements developed for the study are closely related,and a good Cronbach’s alpha value of 0.881 was achieved.One-way ANOVA testing determined that out of 12 statementson the preparedness of pharmacy, nine statements showed asignificant difference concerning the types of pharmacy implementingthe preventive measures.
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Shafi M, Liu J, Jian D, Rahman IU, Chen X. Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on rural communities: a cross-sectional study in the Sichuan Province of China. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e046745. [PMID: 34376445 PMCID: PMC8359857 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-046745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Recently, China has experienced a considerable influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on the local people's health and economy. Hence, the current research aims to investigate the psychological and socioeconomic impact of COVID-19 on rural communities in the Sichuan Province of China. METHODS A total of 499 participants (village representatives of Sichuan Province) were approached to partake in a cross-sectional online survey and share their experience regarding the ongoing pandemic. The descriptive statistics and ordinary least squares (OLS) regression were used to analyse the data. RESULTS Our analysis revealed that the pandemic has significantly affected local people psychologically, leading to socioeconomic vulnerability. Notably, we find that local households are worried about their income losses regardless of their socioeconomic status (40%-43%), level of income (37%-43%) and industry involvement (38%-43%). However, as income increases, the level of stress decreases. The results further show that government transfer payment is a significant factor in reducing stress due to its reliable and uninterrupted income flow. Contrary to our proposition, the pandemic stress was less observed, which might be because of people's trust in government and effective antiepidemic countermeasures to contain the disease. CONCLUSION This study finds that COVID-19 has a significant impact on local people's health, psychology and income. This study is one of the first to provide empirical evidence regarding the early health and socioeconomic effects of COVID-19 at the household level in rural communities, which are very important to devise policies to ease the outbreak and prevent further losses at the local community level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohsin Shafi
- Center for Trans-Himalaya Studies, Leshan Normal University, Leshan, Sichuan, China
| | - Junrong Liu
- Center for Trans-Himalaya Studies, Leshan Normal University, Leshan, Sichuan, China
| | - Deng Jian
- School of Economics and Management, Leshan Normal University, Leshan, Sichuan, China
| | - Imran Ur Rahman
- Center for Trans-Himalaya Studies, Leshan Normal University, Leshan, Sichuan, China
| | - Xunwei Chen
- Center for Trans-Himalaya Studies, Leshan Normal University, Leshan, Sichuan, China
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Waszyk-Nowaczyk M, Guzenda W, Kamasa K, Pawlak K, Bałtruszewicz N, Artyszuk K, Białoszewski A, Merks P. Cooperation Between Pharmacists and Physicians - Whether It Was Before and is It Still Ongoing During the Pandemic? J Multidiscip Healthc 2021; 14:2101-2110. [PMID: 34393489 PMCID: PMC8357703 DOI: 10.2147/jmdh.s318480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Nowadays, it is very important to put an emphasis on widely understood teamwork. This is of great importance for achieving and maintaining success in all areas, especially in medicine. This kind of unity has many advantages, including unique ideas that are very helpful in a competitive environment, improve performance and knowledge, and create stronger supportive work relationships. Patient’s health can be improved by using comprehensive treatment. This provides an urgent need for multidisciplinary partnership in the medical community. Optimal pharmacological treatment is crucial to achieving treatment goals. To ensure excellent quality of medical care, interprofessional cooperation between physicians and pharmacists and/or other medical professionals is necessary. Their complementary knowledge and experience can lead to improved health outcomes and can also reduce treatment costs. There are also many barriers and difficulties in legal systems that would allow for more effective inter-professional cooperation. The COVID-19 pandemic contributed to emphasizing the role of the pharmacist, increasing powers, and at the same time to teamwork, sometimes forced by the situation. The purpose of this publication is to view the literature on the cooperation of physicians and pharmacists in the provision of medical services for patients. Professional cooperation has been well known in many countries for years, as it is a key medium supporting optimized patient care. Analyzing the challenges and approaches can lead to better and improved health care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Waszyk-Nowaczyk
- Pharmacy Practice Division, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, 60-780, Poland
| | - Weronika Guzenda
- Pharmacy Practice Division, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, 60-780, Poland
| | - Karolina Kamasa
- Student's Pharmaceutical Care Group, Pharmacy Practice Division, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, 60-780, Poland
| | - Kornel Pawlak
- Student's Pharmaceutical Care Group, Pharmacy Practice Division, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, 60-780, Poland
| | - Natalia Bałtruszewicz
- Student's Pharmaceutical Care Group, Pharmacy Practice Division, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, 60-780, Poland
| | - Karolina Artyszuk
- Student's Pharmaceutical Care Group, Pharmacy Practice Division, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, 60-780, Poland
| | - Artur Białoszewski
- Department of the Prevention of Environmental Hazards and Allergology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, 02-091, Poland
| | - Piotr Merks
- Faculty of Medicine, Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński University, Warsaw, 01-938, Poland
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Maidment I, Young E, MacPhee M, Booth A, Zaman H, Breen J, Hilton A, Kelly T, Wong G. Rapid realist review of the role of community pharmacy in the public health response to COVID-19. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e050043. [PMID: 34135054 PMCID: PMC8210681 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-050043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Revised: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Community pharmacists and their teams have remained accessible to the public providing essential services despite immense pressures during the COVID-19 pandemic. They have successfully expanded the influenza vaccination programme and are now supporting the delivery of the COVID-19 vaccination roll-out. AIM This rapid realist review aims to understand how community pharmacy can most effectively deliver essential and advanced services, with a focus on vaccination, during the pandemic and in the future. METHOD An embryonic programme theory was generated using four diverse and complementary documents along with the expertise of the project team. Academic databases, preprint services and grey literature were searched and screened for documents meeting our inclusion criteria. The data were extracted from 103 documents to develop and refine a programme theory using a realist logic of analysis. Our analysis generated 13 context-mechanism-outcome configurations explaining when, why and how community pharmacy can support public health vaccination campaigns, maintain essential services during pandemics and capitalise on opportunities for expanded, sustainable public health service roles. The views of stakeholders including pharmacy users, pharmacists, pharmacy teams and other healthcare professionals were sought throughout to refine the 13 explanatory configurations. RESULTS The 13 context-mechanism-outcome configurations are organised according to decision makers, community pharmacy teams and community pharmacy users as key actors. Review findings include: supporting a clear role for community pharmacies in public health; clarifying pharmacists' legal and professional liabilities; involving pharmacy teams in service specification design; providing suitable guidance, adequate compensation and resources; and leveraging accessible, convenient locations of community pharmacy. DISCUSSION Community pharmacy has been able to offer key services during the pandemic. Decision makers must endorse, articulate and support a clear public health role for community pharmacy. We provide key recommendations for decision makers to optimise such a role during these unprecedented times and in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian Maidment
- College of Health and Life Sciences, Aston University, Birmingham, UK
| | - Emma Young
- The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Maura MacPhee
- The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Andrew Booth
- School of Health and Related Research (ScHARR), University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | | | - Juanita Breen
- College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Andrea Hilton
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Hull, Hull, UK
| | - Tony Kelly
- NHS Birmingham and Solihull Clinical Commissioning Group, Birmingham, UK
| | - Geoff Wong
- Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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Sami SA, Marma KKS, Chakraborty A, Singha T, Rakib A, Uddin MG, Hossain MK, Uddin SMN. A comprehensive review on global contributions and recognition of pharmacy professionals amidst COVID-19 pandemic: moving from present to future. FUTURE JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES 2021; 7:119. [PMID: 34150911 PMCID: PMC8195448 DOI: 10.1186/s43094-021-00273-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND COVID-19, a respiratory tract infection caused by SARS-CoV-2, is a burning question worldwide as it gives rise to a pandemic situation. No specific medications are still recommended for COVID-19; however, healthcare support is crucial for ameliorating the disease condition. Pharmacists are the frontline fighters who are responsible for providing healthcare support to the COVID-19 infected patients around the world. This review endeavored to briefly rationalize the contributions of several pharmacy professionals in diverse fields along with their collaborative efforts and dedication regarding their limitations during the COVID-19 situation and view the prospects of pharmaceutical care services in the post-pandemic period. MAIN BODY OF THE ABSTRACT Online databases were utilized to search for scholarly articles and organizational websites, to sum up the information about the contemporary and expanded role of pharmacists. Key articles were retrieved from Google Scholar, PubMed, and Science Direct databases using terms: "COVID-19," "novel coronavirus," "community," "industrial," "hospital," "clinical," "recognition," "obstacles," "collaboration," "SARS-CoV-2," "healthcare," and "outbreak" in combination with "pharmacist." The articles were included from the inception of the pandemic to January 25, 2021. The current review found pharmacist's global contributions and involvements with other professionals to provide healthcare services amidst COVID-19. This included testing of suspects, providing medical information, psycho-social support, debunking myths, mitigating drug shortage events, telemedicine, e-prescription, infection control, and controlling the drug supply chain. In many countries, pharmacists' activities were much appreciated but in some countries, they were not properly acknowledged for their contributions amidst COVID-19 outbreak. They played additional roles such as participating in the antimicrobial stewardship team, improving value-added services, conducting clinical data analysis to suppress the outspread of the SARS-CoV-2. SHORT CONCLUSION During the COVID-19 pandemic while the whole world is fighting against an invisible virus, the pharmacists are the earnest hero to serve their responsibilities along with additional activities. They need to be prepared and collaborate with other healthcare professionals further to meet the challenges of post-pandemic circumstances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saad Ahmed Sami
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, 4331 Bangladesh
| | - Kay Kay Shain Marma
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, 4331 Bangladesh
| | - Agnila Chakraborty
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, 4331 Bangladesh
| | - Tandra Singha
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, 4331 Bangladesh
| | - Ahmed Rakib
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, 4331 Bangladesh
| | - Md. Giash Uddin
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, 4331 Bangladesh
| | | | - S. M. Naim Uddin
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, 4331 Bangladesh
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Prusaczyk B. Strategies for Disseminating and Implementing COVID-19 Vaccines in Rural Areas. Open Forum Infect Dis 2021; 8:ofab152. [PMID: 34183979 PMCID: PMC8083584 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofab152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The United States has well-documented rural–urban health disparities, and it is imperative that these are not exacerbated by an inefficient rollout of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines to rural areas. In addition to the preexisting barriers to delivering and receiving health care in rural areas, such as high patient:provider ratios and long geographic distances between patients and providers, rural residents are significantly more likely to say they have no intention of receiving a COVID-19 vaccine, compared with urban residents. To overcome these barriers and ensure that rural residents receive the vaccine, officials and communities should look to previous research on how to communicate vaccine information and implement successful vaccination programs in rural areas for guidance and concrete strategies to use in their local efforts. Graphical Abstract
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Affiliation(s)
- Beth Prusaczyk
- Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
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Kiles TM, Hagemann T, Felts B, Crill C. Development of a Remote Public Health Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experience in Response to COVID-19. J Pharm Pract 2021; 35:783-790. [PMID: 33789494 DOI: 10.1177/08971900211004830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In order to meet the needs of the COVID-19 public health crisis and to actively engage students in patient care opportunities, the University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Pharmacy in partnership with the Tennessee Health Department, developed a remote Public Health Advanced Pharmacy Practice Experience (APPE) Elective. The objectives of this paper are to describe the development of and students' experiences and learning outcomes during the elective. Faculty preceptor and experiential administrator's perspectives are also described. METHODS This month-long APPE was developed in mid-March and delivered in April and May of 2020. The students volunteered in-person with the State of Tennessee COVID-19 Hotline call centers and conducted topic discussions and assignments virtually with a remote preceptor. RESULTS A total of 16 students completed this rotation experience. Student ratings of the experience were positive, and their knowledge improved in all topic areas. Students collectively completed approximately 700 hours manning the COVID-19 hotline and logged over 1,000 phone calls. CONCLUSIONS In a time of unprecedented disruption to experiential learning, the development of this unique public health APPE directly benefited the college, the students, and the citizens of our state. The APPE described in this paper could be replicated in additional waves of the pandemic or adapted for similar disaster response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyler Marie Kiles
- 15527The University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Pharmacy, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Tracy Hagemann
- The University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Pharmacy, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Brianna Felts
- The University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Pharmacy, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Catherine Crill
- 15527The University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Pharmacy, Memphis, TN, USA
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Pharmacist's Role and Pharmaceutical Care During the COVID-19 Pandemic. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2021; 1318:605-622. [PMID: 33973201 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-63761-3_33] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Pharmacists play a vital role in public health during the COVID-19 pandemic. In this chapter, we present the most significant contributions that pharmacists could make to communitarian and hospital settings. It includes the provision of essential services, such as continuous access to medication and supplies, support to medical services, education and information to the population and the health team to reduce the misuse of medications, patient monitoring and follow-up, and the detection and referral of suspected cases of COVID-19. The chapter ends with a discussion over certain elements related to innovation needs, such as telepharmacy services.
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Mohamed Ibrahim O, Ibrahim RM, Abdel-Qader DH, Al Meslamani AZ, Al Mazrouei N. Evaluation of Telepharmacy Services in Light of COVID-19. Telemed J E Health 2020; 27:649-656. [PMID: 33030986 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2020.0283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Telepharmacy services are expected to have an important role in increasing access of patients to pharmaceutical care and reducing potential dispensing errors in community pharmacies. Objective: To assess the predictors for effective telepharmacy services on increasing access of patients to care and reducing dispensing errors in community pharmacies. Method: This is a prospective study carried out for 4 months in 52 community pharmacies across the United Arab Emirates (UAE) using disguised direct observation. Multivariable logistic regression was used as a tool to predict factors associated with effective telepharmacy services in improving dispensing safety and increasing access of patients to pharmaceutical care. Data were entered and analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) software version 26. Results: Pharmacist recommendations related to COVID-19 at pharmacies with telepharmacy (n = 63,714) versus those without remote services (n = 15,539) were significantly more likely to be (1) contact the nearest testing center (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 7.93), (2) maintain home quarantine (AOR = 5.64), and (3) take paracetamol for fever (AOR = 3.53), all were significant results (p < 0.05). Rates of medication dispensing errors (MDEs) and its subcategories, prescription-related errors, and pharmacist counseling errors across pharmacies with telepharmacy versus those without remote services were (15.81% vs. 19.43%, p < 0.05), (5.38% vs. 10.08%, p < 0.05), and (10.42% vs. 9.35%, p > 0.05), respectively. However, pharmacies with telepharmacy were more likely to include wrong patient errors (AOR = 5.38, p < 0.05). Conclusions: Telepharmacy can be used as a tool to reduce the burden on the health care system and improve drug dispensing safety in community pharmacies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Osama Mohamed Ibrahim
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Pharmacotherapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates.,Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Rana M Ibrahim
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Pharmacotherapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Ahmad Z Al Meslamani
- College of Pharmacy, Al Ain University of Science and Technology, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Nadia Al Mazrouei
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Pharmacotherapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
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Ogunleye OO, Basu D, Mueller D, Sneddon J, Seaton RA, Yinka-Ogunleye AF, Wamboga J, Miljković N, Mwita JC, Rwegerera GM, Massele A, Patrick O, Niba LL, Nsaikila M, Rashed WM, Hussein MA, Hegazy R, Amu AA, Boahen-Boaten BB, Matsebula Z, Gwebu P, Chirigo B, Mkhabela N, Dlamini T, Sithole S, Malaza S, Dlamini S, Afriyie D, Asare GA, Amponsah SK, Sefah I, Oluka M, Guantai AN, Opanga SA, Sarele TV, Mafisa RK, Chikowe I, Khuluza F, Kibuule D, Kalemeera F, Mubita M, Fadare J, Sibomana L, Ramokgopa GM, Whyte C, Maimela T, Hugo J, Meyer JC, Schellack N, Rampamba EM, Visser A, Alfadl A, Malik EM, Malande OO, Kalungia AC, Mwila C, Zaranyika T, Chaibva BV, Olaru ID, Masuka N, Wale J, Hwenda L, Kamoga R, Hill R, Barbui C, Bochenek T, Kurdi A, Campbell S, Martin AP, Phuong TNT, Thanh BN, Godman B. Response to the Novel Corona Virus (COVID-19) Pandemic Across Africa: Successes, Challenges, and Implications for the Future. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:1205. [PMID: 33071775 PMCID: PMC7533592 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.01205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Accepted: 07/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has already claimed considerable lives. There are major concerns in Africa due to existing high prevalence rates for both infectious and non-infectious diseases and limited resources in terms of personnel, beds and equipment. Alongside this, concerns that lockdown and other measures will have on prevention and management of other infectious diseases and non-communicable diseases (NCDs). NCDs are an increasing issue with rising morbidity and mortality rates. The World Health Organization (WHO) warns that a lack of nets and treatment could result in up to 18 million additional cases of malaria and up to 30,000 additional deaths in sub-Saharan Africa. OBJECTIVE Document current prevalence and mortality rates from COVID-19 alongside economic and other measures to reduce its spread and impact across Africa. In addition, suggested ways forward among all key stakeholder groups. OUR APPROACH Contextualise the findings from a wide range of publications including internet-based publications coupled with input from senior-level personnel. ONGOING ACTIVITIES Prevalence and mortality rates are currently lower in Africa than among several Western countries and the USA. This could be due to a number of factors including early instigation of lockdown and border closures, the younger age of the population, lack of robust reporting systems and as yet unidentified genetic and other factors. Innovation is accelerating to address concerns with available equipment. There are ongoing steps to address the level of misinformation and its consequences including fines. There are also ongoing initiatives across Africa to start addressing the unintended consequences of COVID-19 activities including lockdown measures and their impact on NCDs including the likely rise in mental health disorders, exacerbated by increasing stigma associated with COVID-19. Strategies include extending prescription lengths, telemedicine and encouraging vaccination. However, these need to be accelerated to prevent increased morbidity and mortality. CONCLUSION There are multiple activities across Africa to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and address misinformation, which can have catastrophic consequences, assisted by the WHO and others, which appear to be working in a number of countries. Research is ongoing to clarify the unintended consequences given ongoing concerns to guide future activities. Countries are learning from each other.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olayinka O. Ogunleye
- Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology, Lagos State University College of Medicine, Lagos, Nigeria
- Department of Medicine, Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Debashis Basu
- Department of Public Health Medicine, Steve Biko Academic Hospital and the University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Social Determinants of Health and Health in all Policies, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Debjani Mueller
- Charlotte Maxeke Medical Research Cluster, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | | - R. Andrew Seaton
- Healthcare Improvement Scotland, Glasgow, United Kingdom
- Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, Glasgow, United Kingdom
- University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | | | - Joshua Wamboga
- Uganda Alliance of Patients’ Organizations (UAPO), Kampala, Uganda
| | - Nenad Miljković
- Institute of Orthopaedic Surgery “Banjica”, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Julius C. Mwita
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Godfrey Mutashambara Rwegerera
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Botswana and Department of Medicine, Princess Marina Hospital, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Amos Massele
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Okwen Patrick
- Effective Basic Services (eBASE) Africa, Bamenda, Cameroon
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Adelaide University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Loveline Lum Niba
- Effective Basic Services (eBASE) Africa, Bamenda, Cameroon
- Department of Public Health, University of Bamenda, Bambili, Cameroon
| | | | | | | | - Rehab Hegazy
- Pharmacology Department, Medical Division, National Research Centre, Giza, Egypt
| | - Adefolarin A. Amu
- Pharmacy Department, Eswatini Medical Christian University, Mbabane, Eswatini
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Daniel Afriyie
- Pharmacy Department, Ghana Police Hospital, Accra, Ghana
| | - George Awuku Asare
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, School of Biomedical and Allied Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Seth Kwabena Amponsah
- Department of Medical Pharmacology, University of Ghana Medical School, Accra, Ghana
| | - Israel Sefah
- Ghana Health Service, Pharmacy Department, Keta Municipal Hospital, Keta-Dzelukope, Ghana
- Pharmacy Practice Department, School of Pharmacy, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Hohoe, Ghana
| | - Margaret Oluka
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Anastasia N. Guantai
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Sylvia A. Opanga
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmacy Practice, School of Pharmacy, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Tebello Violet Sarele
- Discipline of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Westville-campus, Durban, South Africa
| | | | - Ibrahim Chikowe
- Pharmacy Department, College of Medicine, University of Malawi, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Felix Khuluza
- Pharmacy Department, College of Medicine, University of Malawi, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Dan Kibuule
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Policy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Namibia, Windhoek, Namibia
| | - Francis Kalemeera
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Policy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Namibia, Windhoek, Namibia
| | - Mwangana Mubita
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Policy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Namibia, Windhoek, Namibia
| | - Joseph Fadare
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Ekiti State University , Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria
- Department of Medicine, Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria
| | - Laurien Sibomana
- Department of Epidemiology, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Gwendoline Malegwale Ramokgopa
- Department of Public Health Medicine, Steve Biko Academic Hospital and the University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Social Determinants of Health and Health in all Policies, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Carmen Whyte
- Department of Public Health Medicine, Steve Biko Academic Hospital and the University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Social Determinants of Health and Health in all Policies, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Tshegofatso Maimela
- Department of Public Health Medicine, Steve Biko Academic Hospital and the University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Social Determinants of Health and Health in all Policies, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Johannes Hugo
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Social Determinants of Health and Health in all Policies, Pretoria, South Africa
- Department of Family Medicine, Steve Biko Academic Hospital and University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Johanna C. Meyer
- School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Natalie Schellack
- School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Enos M. Rampamba
- School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria, South Africa
- Department of Pharmacy, Tshilidzini Hospital, Shayandima, South Africa
| | - Adel Visser
- Eugene Marais Hospital, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Abubakr Alfadl
- National Medicines Board, Federal Ministry of Health, Khartoum, Sudan
- Unaizah College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, Qassim, Saudi Arabia
| | - Elfatih M. Malik
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan
- Community Medicine Council, SMSB, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Oliver Ombeva Malande
- Department of Child Health and Paediatrics, Egerton University, Nakuru, Kenya
- East Africa Centre for Vaccines and Immunization (ECAVI), Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Chiluba Mwila
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Trust Zaranyika
- Department of Medicine, University of Zimbabwe College of Health Sciences, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | | | - Ioana D. Olaru
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Nyasha Masuka
- Zimbabwe College of Public Health Physicians, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Janney Wale
- Independent Consumer Advocate, Brunswick, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Regina Kamoga
- Uganda Alliance of Patients’ Organizations (UAPO), Kampala, Uganda
- Community Health and Information Network (CHAIN), Kampala, Uganda
| | - Ruaraidh Hill
- Liverpool Reviews and Implementation Group, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Corrado Barbui
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Section of Psychiatry, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Tomasz Bochenek
- Department of Nutrition and Drug Research, Faculty of Health Sciences, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Krakow, Poland
| | - Amanj Kurdi
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, United Kingdom
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Hawler Medical University, Erbil, Iraq
| | - Stephen Campbell
- Centre for Primary Care, Division of Population Health, Health Services Research and Primary Care, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- NIHR Greater Manchester Patient Safety Translational Research Centre, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Antony P. Martin
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- HCD Economics, The Innovation Centre, Daresbury, United Kingdom
| | - Thuy Nguyen Thi Phuong
- Pharmaceutical Administration & PharmacoEconomics, Hanoi University of Pharmacy, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Binh Nguyen Thanh
- Pharmaceutical Administration & PharmacoEconomics, Hanoi University of Pharmacy, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Brian Godman
- School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria, South Africa
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, United Kingdom
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Karolinska Institute, Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge, Stockholm, Sweden
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia
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Zhang CH, Schwartz GG. Spatial Disparities in Coronavirus Incidence and Mortality in the United States: An Ecological Analysis as of May 2020. J Rural Health 2020; 36:433-445. [PMID: 32543763 PMCID: PMC7323165 DOI: 10.1111/jrh.12476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 147] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Purpose This ecological analysis investigates the spatial patterns of the COVID‐19 epidemic in the United States in relation to socioeconomic variables that characterize US counties. Methods Data on confirmed cases and deaths from COVID‐19 for 2,814 US counties were obtained from Johns Hopkins University. We used Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to map the spatial aspects of this pandemic and investigate the disparities between metropolitan and nonmetropolitan communities. Multiple regression models were used to explore the contextual risk factors of infections and death across US counties. We included population density, percent of population aged 65+, percent population in poverty, percent minority population, and percent of the uninsured as independent variables. A state‐level measure of the percent of the population that has been tested for COVID‐19 was used to control for the impact of testing. Findings The impact of COVID‐19 in the United States has been extremely uneven. Although densely populated large cities and their surrounding metropolitan areas are hotspots of the pandemic, it is counterintuitive that incidence and mortality rates in some small cities and nonmetropolitan counties approximate those in epicenters such as New York City. Regression analyses support the hypotheses of positive correlations between COVID‐19 incidence and mortality rates and socioeconomic factors including population density, proportions of elderly residents, poverty, and percent population tested. Conclusions Knowledge about the spatial aspects of the COVID‐19 epidemic and its socioeconomic correlates can inform first responders and government efforts. Directives for social distancing and to “shelter‐in‐place” should continue to stem the spread of COVID‐19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlie H Zhang
- Department of Geography & Geosciences, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky
| | - Gary G Schwartz
- Department of Population Health, School of Medicine & Health Sciences, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, North Dakota
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