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Meraya AM, Syed MH, Shabi AA, Madkhali HA, Yatimi YA, Khobrani KY, Mubarki YA, Khardali A, Thaibah H, Yasmeen A. Assessment of community pharmacists' knowledge, attitudes and their willingness to provide vaccination services in Saudi Arabia. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0304287. [PMID: 38805488 PMCID: PMC11132504 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0304287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Community pharmacists play an important role in increasing vaccination rates especially in countries where they offer vaccination services and administration. However, little is known about community pharmacist's willingness to provide vaccination services in Saudi Arabia. The objective of this study was to assess knowledge, attitudes, willingness and beliefs of community pharmacists in Saudi Arabia towards providing vaccines at pharmacies. METHODS A cross-sectional, online questionnaire-based study using convenience sampling (Snowball technique) was used to obtain responses from community pharmacists across Saudi Arabia. The survey collected information on participants' demographics, knowledge about vaccine, attitude towards vaccine and their attitude to be immunization providers. Bivariate analysis and multiple linear regression models were employed to assess the relationships between demographic variables and outcomes. RESULTS The study sample consisted of 384 community pharmacists. More than half of participants had poor knowledge about vaccines (54%). Only 8.4% of participants had good knowledge about vaccines. The results indicated that community pharmacists in the study sample have positive attitude toward vaccines and are willing to provide vaccination services. There was a significant relationship between knowledge about vaccine and attitude toward vaccines. Pharmacists with poor knowledge about vaccines had negative attitude toward vaccines as compared to those with high knowledge (β = -1.743; P-value = 0.024). Additionally, there was a significant relationship between knowledge about vaccine and attitude to be immunization providers. Pharmacists with poor knowledge about vaccines had negative attitude to be immunization providers as compared to those with high knowledge (β = -2.631; P-value = 0.002). Furthermore, a significant number of the community pharmacists reported facing critical barriers to provide vaccines including legal liability, lack of personal resources and lack of appropriate training. CONCLUSION Comprehensive training and certification programs for pharmacists are crucial to improve their competencies in handling and administering vaccines to increase the rate of vaccinations in Saudi Arabia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdulkarim M. Meraya
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
- Pharmacy Practice Research Unit, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mamoon H. Syed
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
- Pharmacy Practice Research Unit, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulwahab A. Shabi
- Pharmacy Practice Research Unit, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Huthaifa A. Madkhali
- Pharmacy Practice Research Unit, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Younis A. Yatimi
- Pharmacy Practice Research Unit, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Khalied Y. Khobrani
- Pharmacy Practice Research Unit, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Yahia A. Mubarki
- Pharmacy Practice Research Unit, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amani Khardali
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
- Pharmacy Practice Research Unit, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hilal Thaibah
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
- Pharmacy Practice Research Unit, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ayesha Yasmeen
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
- Pharmacy Practice Research Unit, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
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Tadele S, Demissie BN, Tamiru MT, Tadesse TA. Knowledge and attitudes of community pharmacists on vaccination, barriers and willingness to implement community pharmacy-based vaccination services in Ethiopia. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2023; 19:2291243. [PMID: 38111325 PMCID: PMC10732657 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2023.2291243] [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: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge and attitudes of community pharmacists (CPs) on vaccination and assess the barriers and willingness to implement community pharmacy-based vaccination services (CPBVS) in Ethiopia. An online cross-sectional study was conducted on 423 CPs in Ethiopia, and questionnaires were distributed to CPs through the Ethiopian Pharmaceutical Association telegram group and e-mail invitations. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 27. Most CPs (92%) had good knowledge of vaccination, and 43.5% strongly agreed that the population's immunization rates would rise if CPs were authorized to provide vaccinations. The overall mean attitude score (±SD) toward vaccination was 35.95 (±4.11) out of a total score of 45, with 187 (44.2%) scoring below the mean. The most common barriers were lack of authorization (94.1%), costs and time associated with professional development and training (71.4%), time requirements for professional development (70%), and insufficient staff or resources for implementation (70%). Two hundred thirty CPs (54.4%) expressed a willingness to implement CPBVS. Educational qualifications were significantly associated with knowledge of CPs regarding vaccination. Those with inadequate knowledge had about 2.5 times (AOR = 2.51, 95% CI: 1.19, 5.31, p = .016) a poorer attitude toward vaccination services compared with those with adequate knowledge. Those study participants who had a good attitude toward vaccination services were nearly seven (AOR = 6.80, 95% CI: 4.36-10.59, p = .0001) times more willing to provide CPBVS when compared with their counterparts. Implementing CPBVS in Ethiopia requires overcoming barriers and providing professional development opportunities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Solome Tadele
- School of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Bezawit Negash Demissie
- School of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Melaku Tileku Tamiru
- School of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Tamrat Assefa Tadesse
- School of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Eldooma I, Maatoug M, Yousif M. Outcomes of Pharmacist-Led Pharmaceutical Care Interventions Within Community Pharmacies: Narrative Review. INTEGRATED PHARMACY RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2023; 12:113-126. [PMID: 37216033 PMCID: PMC10198268 DOI: 10.2147/iprp.s408340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Pharmaceutical care (PhC) services interventions led by pharmacists within community pharmacies (CPs) are essential in achieving optimal medication use outcomes. PhC is a concept related to medication use goals optimization through the reduction and prevention of drug-related problems (DRPs). This review paper summarized the literature on pharmacist-led PhC interventions within CPs. PubMed and Google Scholar publications were searched, identified, and summarized. Results showed that some studies handled community pharmacists' roles, and some talked about PhC interventions. However, some studies reviewed the use of medicines, adherence, and follow-up, while other groups were on counseling, patient education, and health promotion. Pharmacists integrated some studies concerning diagnosis and disease screening into community pharmacy services. Besides these studies, there were studies on system design and installation of PhC service models. Most of the identified research results showed pharmacist-led intervention benefits for patients. These benefits include reduced DRPs, clinical, economical, humane, education and knowledge, disease prevention and immunization, identification of practice process problems, and the need for current practice redesigning. In conclusion, pharmacists can help patients achieve optimal outcomes through pharmacist-led interventions. Despite mentioned results, We recommend researching comprehensively applied PhC services provision models within CPs for more pharmacists-led interventions and role activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ismaeil Eldooma
- Department of Planning, Research, and Information; National Health Insurance Fund, Wad-Medani, Sudan
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Practice, University of Gezira, Wad-Medani, Sudan
| | - Maha Maatoug
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Practice, University of Gezira, Wad-Medani, Sudan
| | - Mirghani Yousif
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Practice, University of Gezira, Wad-Medani, Sudan
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Sakr F, Dabbous M, Rahal M, Salameh P, Akel M. Challenges and opportunities to provide immunization services: Analysis of data from a cross-sectional study on a sample of pharmacists in a developing country. Health Sci Rep 2023; 6:e1206. [PMID: 37064320 PMCID: PMC10098443 DOI: 10.1002/hsr2.1206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/25/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims Vaccine-preventable illnesses continue to be a global health concern as immunization coverage remains below its targets. National plans emphasize on the essential role of multidisciplinary efforts and approaches to vaccination programs. Pharmacists are globally getting involved in immunization services as important members of the healthcare team. This study aimed to determine barriers, and assess challenges and possible opportunities to provide immunization in the Lebanese pharmacy practice. Methods This was a cross-sectional study that included pharmacists from all over Lebanon, as part of a national research to assess the role of pharmacists as immunizers. All registered pharmacists in Lebanon practicing in community, hospital, or other clinical settings were considered eligible for participation. A web-based self-administered validated questionnaire, which is initially developed by the American Pharmacists Association, was adapted with permission. Results A total of 315 pharmacists responded to the survey. Only 23.1% declared completing an immunization training program. Over half of pharmacists (58.4%) administer vaccines to patients. A significant association between lack of support from physicians to pharmacists (adjusted odds ratio [ORa] = 2.099, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.290-3.414, p = 0.003) and vaccine administration was found, while cost associated with professional development and additional training (ORa = 0.533, 95% CI = 0.287-0.989, p = 0.046) was inversely associated to it. Logistic, financial, and legislative requirements as essential necessities were determined to successfully expand pharmacist-led immunization services. Conclusions The major barriers and challenges to vaccine administration by pharmacists comprised a lack of physicians' support and expenses associated with professional development and additional training. Pharmacists administer more vaccination despite lack of support from physicians; whereas they administer less vaccination due to cost associated with professional development and further training. The scope of pharmacy practice in Lebanon is not well recognized by other healthcare providers and stakeholders to include immunization services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fouad Sakr
- School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International UniversityBeirutLebanon
- École Doctorale Sciences de la Vie et de la Santé, Université Paris‐Est CréteilCréteilFrance
- UMR U955 INSERM, Institut Mondor de Recherche Biomédicale, Université Paris‐Est CréteilCréteilFrance
- INSPECT‐LB (Institut National de Santé Publique, d’Épidémiologie Clinique et de Toxicologie‐Liban)BeirutLebanon
| | - Mariam Dabbous
- School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International UniversityBeirutLebanon
| | - Mohamad Rahal
- School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International UniversityBeirutLebanon
| | - Pascale Salameh
- INSPECT‐LB (Institut National de Santé Publique, d’Épidémiologie Clinique et de Toxicologie‐Liban)BeirutLebanon
- School of Medicine, Lebanese American UniversityByblosLebanon
- School of Pharmacy, Lebanese UniversityBeirutLebanon
- Department of Primary Care and Population HealthUniversity of Nicosia Medical SchoolNicosiaCyprus
| | - Marwan Akel
- School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International UniversityBeirutLebanon
- INSPECT‐LB (Institut National de Santé Publique, d’Épidémiologie Clinique et de Toxicologie‐Liban)BeirutLebanon
- School of Education, Lebanese International UniversityBeirutLebanon
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Alnahar SA, Gkountouras G, Darwish RM, Bates I. Community pharmacists workforce readiness to deliver vaccination services: A cross-sectional study from Jordan. Pharmacol Res Perspect 2022; 10:e00943. [PMID: 35239230 PMCID: PMC8893009 DOI: 10.1002/prp2.943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2021] [Revised: 01/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
This study assesses Jordanian community pharmacists’ readiness and willingness to deliver vaccination services in their practice sites. Between February and April 2021, a self‐administered online questionnaire was distributed via social media, WhatsApp messages, and personal communication. The questionnaire targeted practicing community pharmacies. Descriptive and inferential data analysis was carried out. A total of 403 community pharmacists participated in the study. Almost 146 (36%) community pharmacists reported vaccinating patients in their practice sites. However, readiness assessment revealed that only 54 (13.4%) pharmacists received the required training and qualifications. Moreover, 33 (8.2%) study participants worked in adequately equipped and designed community pharmacies. Overall, surveyed participants held positive attitudes toward their involvement in vaccination services: 260 (64.5%) pharmacists were willing to vaccinate patients, and 227 (65.0%) out of unready, unqualified, participants were willing to get needed training and qualifications. According to study participants, regulatory and professional bodies (Ministry of Health, Jordan Pharmacists Association) are influential in supporting pharmacist‐vaccinators. Among the investigated factors, organizational structure and employment status were significantly associated with pharmacists’ readiness to deliver vaccination. This study revealed that further work is needed to increase pharmacists’ and pharmacies’ readiness to deliver vaccination services and that regulators should follow a more active approach in highlighting the importance of training and the impact of training in patients’ safety and satisfaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saja A Alnahar
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, Yarmouk University, Irbid, Jordan.,Department of Primary Care and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Georgios Gkountouras
- Division of Population Health, Health Services Research and Primary Care, School of Health Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Rula M Darwish
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, School of Pharmacy, University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Ian Bates
- School of Pharmacy, University College London, London, UK
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