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Alenezi S, Alanazi M, Aljazaeri R, Almuzaini M, Alrasheidi S, Shamlan WB, Aljohani R, Alhawiti G, Alqarni M, Aljabri E, Qmmash M, Kanan M. Community Pharmacies in the Asian Countries of Developing Health System: Formation, Regulation, and Implication. PHARMACY 2023; 11:127. [PMID: 37624082 PMCID: PMC10460015 DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy11040127] [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: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Community pharmacies (CPs) in Asian countries are often the first point of contact for patients withinthe healthcare system and their preferred place to purchase medicines. The number of CPs may vary across Asian countries, and each country has developed its own design and functioning. The regulatory environment plays a crucial role in shaping and governing CPs. The aim of this study was to conduct a comprehensive literature review in order to enhance understanding of the establishment and regulation of CPs. By undertaking this review, the researchers, policymakers, and practitioners sought to gain a deeper insight into the performance and functions of CPs and the regulatory frameworks that govern them. Moreover, this review shed light on implementation strategies, effects on patient outcomes, and the barriers and challenges associated with their establishment. A narrative literature review method was adopted with specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. Significant disparities can be observed when comparing the stated intentions of regulations with their actual implementation. Recently, there has been an inclusion of public health practices. Unfortunately, pharmacy procedures conducted in such environments have been characterized by inadequate understanding and inappropriate care. This poor performance can be attributed to employees' focus on maximizing profits. Several shortcomings can arise, including incomplete patient history documentation, failure to refer patients who require medical attention, unauthorized dispensing of prescription-only medicines (POM), dispensing clinically inappropriate or excessive medication doses, selling incomplete antibiotic courses, and inadequate information and counseling services. Regulatory interventions can help strengthen these services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaymaa Alenezi
- Al-Dawaa Pharmacy, Raiydh 12211, Saudi Arabia; (S.A.); (M.A.); (S.A.)
| | - Mona Alanazi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Nahdi Medical Co., Riyadh 13515, Saudi Arabia; (M.A.); (R.A.); (R.A.); (M.A.); (E.A.)
| | - Reaam Aljazaeri
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Nahdi Medical Co., Riyadh 13515, Saudi Arabia; (M.A.); (R.A.); (R.A.); (M.A.); (E.A.)
| | - Marwah Almuzaini
- Al-Dawaa Pharmacy, Raiydh 12211, Saudi Arabia; (S.A.); (M.A.); (S.A.)
| | | | - Wafa Bin Shamlan
- Community Pharmacist, United Pharmaceutical Company, Jeddah 22230, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Raghad Aljohani
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Nahdi Medical Co., Riyadh 13515, Saudi Arabia; (M.A.); (R.A.); (R.A.); (M.A.); (E.A.)
| | - Ghadeer Alhawiti
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Alkadi Medical Group, Tabuk 47311, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Meaad Alqarni
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Nahdi Medical Co., Riyadh 13515, Saudi Arabia; (M.A.); (R.A.); (R.A.); (M.A.); (E.A.)
| | - Ehdaa Aljabri
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Nahdi Medical Co., Riyadh 13515, Saudi Arabia; (M.A.); (R.A.); (R.A.); (M.A.); (E.A.)
| | - Majd Qmmash
- College of Pharmacy, King Khalid University, Abha 62529, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Mohammed Kanan
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh 12211, Saudi Arabia
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Bogale Kassie A, Mengie Ayele T, Mekonnen Agidew M. Assessment of Dispensing Malpractice in Community Drug Retail Outlets in South Gondar Zone, Northwest Ethiopia: A Simulated Patient Experience. INTEGRATED PHARMACY RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2023; 12:171-183. [PMID: 37522068 PMCID: PMC10386832 DOI: 10.2147/iprp.s416830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Pharmacy professionals in community drug retail outlets, as the most accessible personnel for the community, are engaged in consultation and responding to health problems in addition to filling prescriptions. In doing so, different dispensing malpractices are observed and much is not known on the issue in Ethiopia. Objective The study aimed at assessing dispensing malpractice at pharmacies, drug stores and drug vendors in South Gondar zone. Methodology A cross-sectional study design with a descriptive approach was applied from April 1 to June 30. The data was collected using the simulated patient method. Seven prescription-only medicines and a diarrheal case were requested during visit. All drug retail outlets in South Gondar zone that were in service during data collection were visited. Results Almost all prescription-only medications were dispensed without prescription at all community drug retail outlets. Of all the dispensaries, 19 (82.6%) provided a partial dosage regimen of amoxicillin. Presence of fever and pregnancy status were asked about by dispensers in only 8% and 20% of visits for diarrhea, respectively. Medication history was also rarely requested. Medication was dispensed in 80% of visits for diarrhea, all of which included antimicrobials. Oral rehydration salt was considered in only two (10%) dispensaries. Conclusion Dispensing medications without a prescription is common in community drug retail outlets in South Gondar zone in Amhara Regional State. Our findings also showed that detailed assessments of patients' signs and symptoms are not performed properly by the dispensers to understand the diarrheal case. Training of pharmacy professionals and strict regulatory control are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Achenef Bogale Kassie
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Debre Tabore University, Debre Tabore, Amhara Regional State, Ethiopia
| | - Teklie Mengie Ayele
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Debre Tabore University, Debre Tabore, Amhara Regional State, Ethiopia
| | - Melaku Mekonnen Agidew
- Department of Biomedical Science, College of Health Sciences, Debre Tabore University, Debre Tabore, Amhara Regional State, Ethiopia
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Edessa D, Assefa N, Dessie Y, Asefa F, Dinsa G, Oljira L. Non-prescribed antibiotic use for children at community levels in low- and middle-income countries: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Pharm Policy Pract 2022; 15:57. [PMID: 36180895 PMCID: PMC9524137 DOI: 10.1186/s40545-022-00454-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Non-prescribed antibiotic use is an emerging risky practice around the globe. An inappropriate use involving nonprescription access is one cause of the rapid increase in antibiotic resistance. Children commonly encounter many self-limiting illnesses for which they frequently use antibiotics without prescription. However, no specific and conclusive evidence exists to inform actions against this unsafe practice. We thus aimed to estimate the pooled proportion of non-prescribed antibiotic use for children at community levels in low- and middle-income countries. METHODS A systematic search of records was conducted from PubMed/Medline, Embase, Scopus, CINAHL, and Google scholar. Eligible English-language publications were original articles which reported on community-based non-prescribed antibiotic use for children and conducted in low- and middle-income countries. Study features and the number of antibiotics used without prescriptions were extracted and pooled for effect sizes employing a random-effects model. The pooled proportion of non-prescribed antibiotic use was estimated as a percentage. RESULTS In this analysis, we included a total of 39 articles consisting of 40,450 participants. Of these, 16,315 participants used non-prescribed antibiotics. The pooled percentage for this use of non-prescribed antibiotics was 45% (95% CI: 40-50%). The estimate was considerably higher in studies involving simulated patient methods (56%; 95% CI: 49-62%) than those studies with community surveys (40%; 95% CI: 34-46%) (P = 0.001). It was also varied by the recall period of antibiotics use-56% (95% CI: 50-62%) for instantly observed practice, 36% (95% CI: 22-50%) for within two week recall, 35% (95% CI: 26-45%) for 1-6 months recall, and 46% (95% CI: 37-54%) for more than six months recall (P = 0.001). Primary access points for the non-prescribed antibiotic uses were retail drug outlets. CONCLUSIONS We found that nearly half of the antibiotics used for children in community settings were without prescriptions. For these unsafe practices, caregivers accessed antibiotics mainly from drug outlets. Hence, context-specific educational and regulatory interventions at these outlets and the community levels are the first steps to improving antibiotic usage for children in low- and middle-income countries. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42021288971 (PROSPERO). https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42021288971 .
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Affiliation(s)
- Dumessa Edessa
- School of Pharmacy, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia. .,School of Public Health, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia.
| | - Nega Assefa
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Yadeta Dessie
- School of Public Health, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Fekede Asefa
- School of Public Health, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia.,Center for Biomedical Informatics, Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center-Oak Ridge National Laboratory (UTHSC-ORNL, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Girmaye Dinsa
- School of Public Health, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia.,School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Lemessa Oljira
- School of Public Health, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
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Self-reported and the actual involvement of community pharmacy professionals in the management of acute childhood diarrhea in Jazan Province, Saudi Arabia: Simulated patient visits and survey study. Saudi Pharm J 2022; 30:1497-1506. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jsps.2022.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
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Malik UR, Chang J, Hashmi F, Atif N, Basir H, Hayat K, Khan FU, Kabba JA, Lambojon K, Fang Y. A Simulated Client Exploration of Nonprescription Dispensing of Antibiotics at Drugstores for Pediatric Acute Diarrhea and Upper Respiratory Infection in Lahore, Pakistan. Infect Drug Resist 2021; 14:1129-1140. [PMID: 33790584 PMCID: PMC7997541 DOI: 10.2147/idr.s301812] [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: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The excessive consumption of antibiotics is a significant contributor to antimicrobial resistance, especially in children. Children are often advised antibiotics for viral infections. In developing countries, drugstores are a prime source of easy access to nonprescription antibiotics. Moreover, in Pakistan, their irrational use is an "everyday routine". The study, therefore, aimed to evaluate the dispensing of nonprescription antibiotics to children. METHODS Using pediatric acute diarrhea and acute upper respiratory infection as disease scenarios, a simulated client, cross-sectional study was conducted in Lahore, Pakistan, to explore the antibiotics' ease of availability at both categories of drugstores (pharmacies and medical stores) from November 1st, 2019 to January 31st, 2020. Chi-square (χ 2) test was used to compare the differences in practices of different categorical variables. Multivariable logistic regression was applied to analyze the association of various factors with antibiotics dispensing. RESULTS Antibiotics were dispensed without prescription in 456 (59%) of 773 simulated visits out of which 425 (93.2%) were dispensed on the advice of the drugstore staff. A qualified pharmacist was available in only 164 (21.2%) cases. Of the 386 visits for acute diarrhea and 387 for acute upper respiratory infection, nonprescription antibiotic dispensing occurred in 259 (67.1%) and 197 (50.9%) visits, respectively. There were considerable differences (p-value <0.05) in the practices and antibiotics dispensing between each disease scenario presented. Moreover, antibiotics were less commonly dispensed at pharmacist-supervised drugstores compared to unsupervised ones. CONCLUSION Overall, inappropriate dispensing practices were prevalent to a large extent at the drugstores, and antibiotics were effortlessly obtainable without prescription. The quality of the services provided, especially by the non-pharmacist staff, was also not satisfactory. Therefore, the Drug Regulating Authority of Pakistan must enforce strict implementation of drug laws at the drugstores without delay, especially in major cities to help curb the felonious use of antibiotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Usman Rashid Malik
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, 710061, People’s Republic of China
- Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, 710061, People’s Republic of China
- Research Institute for Drug Safety and Monitoring, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, China’s Western Technology Innovation Harbour, Xi’an, 710000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jie Chang
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, 710061, People’s Republic of China
- Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, 710061, People’s Republic of China
- Research Institute for Drug Safety and Monitoring, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, China’s Western Technology Innovation Harbour, Xi’an, 710000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Furqan Hashmi
- University College of Pharmacy, University of the Punjab, Lahore, 54000, Pakistan
| | - Naveel Atif
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, 710061, People’s Republic of China
- Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, 710061, People’s Republic of China
- Research Institute for Drug Safety and Monitoring, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, China’s Western Technology Innovation Harbour, Xi’an, 710000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hareem Basir
- Royal Albert Edward Infirmary, Wigan, WN1 2NN, UK
| | - Khezar Hayat
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, 710061, People’s Republic of China
- Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, 710061, People’s Republic of China
- Research Institute for Drug Safety and Monitoring, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, China’s Western Technology Innovation Harbour, Xi’an, 710000, People’s Republic of China
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, 54000, Pakistan
| | - Faiz Ullah Khan
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, 710061, People’s Republic of China
- Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, 710061, People’s Republic of China
- Research Institute for Drug Safety and Monitoring, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, China’s Western Technology Innovation Harbour, Xi’an, 710000, People’s Republic of China
| | - John Alimamy Kabba
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, 710061, People’s Republic of China
- Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, 710061, People’s Republic of China
- Research Institute for Drug Safety and Monitoring, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, China’s Western Technology Innovation Harbour, Xi’an, 710000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Krizzia Lambojon
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, 710061, People’s Republic of China
- Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, 710061, People’s Republic of China
- Research Institute for Drug Safety and Monitoring, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, China’s Western Technology Innovation Harbour, Xi’an, 710000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yu Fang
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, 710061, People’s Republic of China
- Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, 710061, People’s Republic of China
- Research Institute for Drug Safety and Monitoring, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, China’s Western Technology Innovation Harbour, Xi’an, 710000, People’s Republic of China
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Wondimsigegn D, Woldegerima B, Taddese AA. History taking and response to an adult diarrheal case among community drug retail outlets in Gondar town, north-west Ethiopia: a simulated-client survey. J Pharm Policy Pract 2021; 14:26. [PMID: 33641665 PMCID: PMC7919074 DOI: 10.1186/s40545-021-00310-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Self-care is one of the growing tasks of community pharmacy professionals. They are highly engaged in consultations in response to specific drug request (product-based presentation) or symptoms clients describe (symptom-based presentation). Purpose This study was aimed at assessing the appropriateness of patient assessment and response to an adult diarrheal case among community drug retail outlets in Gondar town, north-west Ethiopia. Methods A descriptive cross-sectional study design based on simulated-client method of visit was conducted from 03 August to 21 September, 2020. An adult female diarrheal case scenario was developed and used to guide data collectors to interact with professionals in a standardized and consistent way. All 60 dispensaries in the town during the data collection were included in the study. A pretested data collection tool was used to record the conversation between simulated clients and providers. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 20. Results With regard to patient history, age of the patient, whether diarrhea is watery or bloody and onset and duration of diarrhea were the three most commonly requested questions with 59 (98.3%), 55 (91.7%) and 46 (76.7%), respectively. Past-medical and medication history are enquired in none of the visits. Medication was dispensed in 57 (95%) of the visits and no referral to a health facility was recommended in majority (90%) of cases. The most commonly recommended medications were ciprofloxacin 30 (52.6%) and metronidazole 20 (35.1%). ORS was considered in only 6 (10.5%) dispensaries. Conclusion Patient assessment, final decisions and treatment recommendations for an adult diarrheal case are inadequate, irrational and illegal. Educational interventions coupled with incentive mechanisms for cognitive pharmaceutical service and strict regulatory enforcement are needed to reduce the problem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dawit Wondimsigegn
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Social Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia.
| | - Berhanemeskel Woldegerima
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Social Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Asefa Adimasu Taddese
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
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Thi Quynh Nhi L, de Alwis R, Khanh Lam P, Nhon Hoa N, Minh Nhan N, Thi Tu Oanh L, Thanh Nam D, Nguyen Ngoc Han B, Thi Thuy Huyen H, Thi Tuyen D, Thuy Duong V, Lan Vi L, Thi Thuy Tien B, Thi Diem Tuyet H, Hoang Nha L, Thwaites GE, Van Dung D, Baker S. Quantifying antimicrobial access and usage for paediatric diarrhoeal disease in an urban community setting in Asia. J Antimicrob Chemother 2019; 73:2546-2554. [PMID: 29982636 PMCID: PMC6105870 DOI: 10.1093/jac/dky231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2018] [Accepted: 05/21/2018] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Antimicrobial-resistant infections are a major global health issue. Ease of antimicrobial access in developing countries is proposed to be a key driver of the antimicrobial resistance (AMR) epidemic despite a lack of community antimicrobial usage data. Methods Using a mixed-methods approach (geospatial mapping, simulated clients, healthcare utilization, longitudinal cohort) we assessed antimicrobial access in the community and quantified antimicrobial usage for childhood diarrhoea in an urban Vietnamese setting. Results The study area had a pharmacy density of 15.7 pharmacies/km2 (a pharmacy for every 1316 people). Using a simulated client method at pharmacies within the area, we found that 8% (3/37) and 22% (8/37) of outlets sold antimicrobials for paediatric watery and mucoid diarrhoea, respectively. However, despite ease of pharmacy access, the majority of caregivers would choose to take their child to a healthcare facility, with 81% (319/396) and 88% (347/396) of responders selecting a specialized hospital as one of their top three preferences when seeking treatment for watery and mucoid diarrhoea, respectively. We calculated that at least 19% (2688/14427) of diarrhoea episodes in those aged 1 to <5 years would receive an antimicrobial annually; however, antimicrobial usage was almost 10 times greater in hospitals than in the community. Conclusions Our data question the impact of community antimicrobial usage on AMR and highlight the need for better education and guidelines for all professionals with the authority to prescribe antimicrobials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Le Thi Quynh Nhi
- The Hospital for Tropical Diseases, Wellcome Trust Major Overseas Programme, Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.,University of Medicine and Pharmacy in Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Ruklanthi de Alwis
- The Hospital for Tropical Diseases, Wellcome Trust Major Overseas Programme, Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.,Centre for Tropical Medicine, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, Oxford University, Oxford, UK
| | - Phung Khanh Lam
- The Hospital for Tropical Diseases, Wellcome Trust Major Overseas Programme, Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Nguyen Nhon Hoa
- University of Medicine and Pharmacy in Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Nguyen Minh Nhan
- University of Medicine and Pharmacy in Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Le Thi Tu Oanh
- University of Medicine and Pharmacy in Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Dang Thanh Nam
- University of Medicine and Pharmacy in Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Bui Nguyen Ngoc Han
- University of Medicine and Pharmacy in Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Hoang Thi Thuy Huyen
- University of Medicine and Pharmacy in Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Dinh Thi Tuyen
- University of Medicine and Pharmacy in Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Vu Thuy Duong
- The Hospital for Tropical Diseases, Wellcome Trust Major Overseas Programme, Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.,Children Hospital 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Lu Lan Vi
- The Hospital for Tropical Diseases, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | | | | | - Le Hoang Nha
- Ho Chi Minh City Department of Health, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Guy E Thwaites
- The Hospital for Tropical Diseases, Wellcome Trust Major Overseas Programme, Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.,Centre for Tropical Medicine, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, Oxford University, Oxford, UK
| | - Do Van Dung
- University of Medicine and Pharmacy in Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Stephen Baker
- The Hospital for Tropical Diseases, Wellcome Trust Major Overseas Programme, Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.,Centre for Tropical Medicine, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, Oxford University, Oxford, UK.,The Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
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Mengistu G, Gietnet K, Amare F, Sisay M, Hagos B, Misganaw D. Self-Reported and Actual Involvement of Community Pharmacy Professionals in the Management of Childhood Diarrhea: A Cross-Sectional and Simulated Patient Study at two Towns of Eastern Ethiopia. CLINICAL MEDICINE INSIGHTS-PEDIATRICS 2019; 13:1179556519855380. [PMID: 31223236 PMCID: PMC6566488 DOI: 10.1177/1179556519855380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2018] [Accepted: 05/13/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Background Role of community pharmacy professionals is observed in the prevention and treatment of diarrhea and the associated problem of dehydration in children. The aim of this study was to assess self-reported knowledge and actual practices of community pharmacy professionals toward the management of diarrhea in Harar town and Dire Dawa city administration. Methodology Community-based cross-sectional study was conducted on community pharmacy professionals practicing in community drug outlets of the two towns. Structured questionnaires and simulated patient were used to collect data. Results A total of 105 community pharmacy professionals from 105 community pharmacies were invited, out of which 69.5% were men. Age was the most frequently taken history in both studies and none of the participants take history about weight of the child, medication history, and nutrition condition in the simulated study. Even though more than 90% of the participants reported to recommend oral rehydration salt (ORS) plus zinc, above 85% of them dispense antimicrobial agents for the simulated patient. Dose (96%), frequency (98%), how to prepare ORS (98%), and duration (98%) were the most frequently given information in the questionnaire survey. However, the simulated study revealed that information about common side effects and major interactions were not given to the patient. Conclusion The study identified that there is a great difference between self-reported knowledge and actual practices on the management of childhood diarrhea in community pharmacies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Getnet Mengistu
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Unit, Department of Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | - Kassahun Gietnet
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Haramaya, Ethiopia
| | - Firehiwot Amare
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Haramaya, Ethiopia
| | - Mekonnen Sisay
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Haramaya, Ethiopia
| | - Bisrat Hagos
- Department of Social Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Haramaya, Ethiopia
| | - Desye Misganaw
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Unit, Department of Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
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Sakeena M, Bennett AA, McLachlan AJ. Non-prescription sales of antimicrobial agents at community pharmacies in developing countries: a systematic review. Int J Antimicrob Agents 2018; 52:771-782. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijantimicag.2018.09.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2018] [Revised: 08/28/2018] [Accepted: 09/29/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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10
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Sinopoulou V, Gordon M, Rutter P. A systematic review of community pharmacies' staff diagnostic assessment and performance in patient consultations. Res Social Adm Pharm 2018; 15:1068-1079. [PMID: 30342907 DOI: 10.1016/j.sapharm.2018.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2018] [Revised: 10/02/2018] [Accepted: 10/09/2018] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Increases in patients seeking advice at pharmacies has led to pharmacy staff engaging in diagnostic behaviours. Approaches to diagnosis include using mnemonics and clinical reasoning. OBJECTIVES The primary aim of this review was to assess the degree to which the criteria researchers use to evaluate diagnostic performance in pharmacy consultations, in studies that have simulated patients or vignettes, conform with a clinical reasoning and a mnemonic framework. A secondary aim of the review was to characterize staff performance in the studies, based on the authors' comments of their results. METHODS MEDLINE, EMBASE and Web of Science were searched between October 2016 and April 2017. Only peer-reviewed studies assessing pharmacy staff's diagnostic performance using simulated patients or vignettes were eligible for inclusion. Data were extracted about how each study's criteria conformed with clinical reasoning and mnemonic frameworks. A scoring system between 0 and 4 was devised to determine the degree to which studies aligned to these two approaches. Risk of bias was assessed using the NHI Study Quality Assessment Tools. The review was registered in PROSPERO with identification number CRD42017054827. RESULTS Sixty-eight studies (55 cross-sectional, 11 educational interventions and 2 RCTs) with sample sizes between 10 and 2700 were included in the review. Most studies were of poor or fair quality. Performance of pharmacy staff was overwhelmingly reported as poor by study authors. This was the case regardless of geography, scenario used, or assessment framework adopted. Scrutiny on how authors arrived at these conclusions revealed that mnemonic criteria were employed to assess pharmacy staff's diagnostic performance rather than a clinical reasoning approach. CONCLUSIONS Potentially important aspects of the decision-making process, such as clinical reasoning, were left unexplored. The number and geographic distribution of the included studies is a strength of this review; however, a validated tool was not employed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vassiliki Sinopoulou
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, United Kingdom.
| | - Morris Gordon
- School of Medicine, University of Central Lancashire, United Kingdom
| | - Paul Rutter
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Central Lancashire, United Kingdom
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Assessment of community pharmacy professionals' knowledge and counseling skills achievement towards headache management: a cross-sectional and simulated-client based mixed study. J Headache Pain 2018; 19:96. [PMID: 30326826 PMCID: PMC6755542 DOI: 10.1186/s10194-018-0930-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2018] [Accepted: 10/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Headache is one of the most common disabling medical condition affecting over 40% of adults globally. Many patients with headache prefer to alleviate their symptom with a range of over-the-counter analgesics that are available in community medicine retail outlets (CMROs). However, data regarding how community pharmacists respond to headache presentation and their analgesic dispensing behaviors in Ethiopia is scarce. The present study aimed to assess the self-reported and actual practice of community pharmacists toward management of a headache in Gondar town, Ethiopia. METHODS A dual-phase mixed-methods research design, including pseudo-client visits (between April 1 and 30, 2018) followed by a questionnaire-based cross-sectional study (between May 1 and 20, 2018) was conducted among CMROs in Gondar town, Ethiopia. RESULTS Among the 60 pseudo-client visits, 95% of them dispensed medications. The overall counseling approach was found to be 42.6% which improved to 58.3% when the pseudo-clients demanded it. Duration (73.3%) and signs/symptoms (45%) of headache were asked before dispensing the medications. Dosing frequency (86.7%), indication (60%) and dosage form (35%) were the most discussed items. Ibuprofen (45%) and diclofenac (41.5%) were primarily added to paracetamol for better headache treatment. Effectiveness (61.7%) and cost (21.7%) were the main criteria to choose drugs. In the cross-sectional survey, 60 participants were requested and 51 of them agreed to participate (response rate of 85%). Of these participants, 64.7% agreed that managing headache symptomatically is challenging. Patient lack of confidence in dispensers (41.2%) and lack of updated medical information (31.4%) were reported as the primary barriers to counsel clients. CONCLUSION This study demonstrated the practical gaps in counseling practices and poor headache management of community pharmacies in Gondar city. National stakeholders in collaboration with academic organizations should be involved in continuous clinical training and education regarding proper counseling practices.
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Langer B, Bull E, Burgsthaler T, Glawe J, Schwobeda M, Simon K. Assessment of counselling for acute diarrhoea in German pharmacies: a simulated patient study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHARMACY PRACTICE 2018; 26:310-317. [PMID: 28925071 PMCID: PMC6055702 DOI: 10.1111/ijpp.12405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2016] [Accepted: 08/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to assess the quality of counselling provided for acute diarrhoea and to evaluate the role of the patient's approach and different user groups in determining the outcome of counselling. METHODS The simulated patient methodology was used in all 21 community pharmacies in a north-eastern German city. Four different scenarios related to self-medication of acute diarrhoea were developed and used in all the pharmacies (a total of 84 visits). The assessment form, completed immediately postvisit by the simulated patient, included 9 objective items scored using dichotomous scales to produce a scale from 0 to 9. After evaluating the data, every pharmacy received individual performance feedback to encourage behavioural changes and improve the quality of the counselling provided. KEY FINDINGS Overall, the quality of counselling was poor (mean score of 3.3/9 (37%)). The most common information provided was about dosage (87% of interactions), while the least common information given was about side effects (4% of interactions). The main effect was seen when comparing the product and symptom requests (F(1,60) = 24.748, P < 0.001, ωp2 = 0.277). There was no effect resulting from different user groups (F(1,28) = 0.237, P = 0.630, ωp2 = -0.026) and no interaction between the type of request and different user groups (F(1,28) = 3.395, P = 0.076, ωp2 = 0.073). CONCLUSIONS This study highlighted the current deficits in appropriate counselling provided by community pharmacies in Germany.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernhard Langer
- Faculty of HealthNursingAdministrationUniversity of Applied Sciences NeubrandenburgNeubrandenburgGermany
| | - Elisa Bull
- Faculty of HealthNursingAdministrationUniversity of Applied Sciences NeubrandenburgNeubrandenburgGermany
| | - Tina Burgsthaler
- Faculty of HealthNursingAdministrationUniversity of Applied Sciences NeubrandenburgNeubrandenburgGermany
| | - Julia Glawe
- Faculty of HealthNursingAdministrationUniversity of Applied Sciences NeubrandenburgNeubrandenburgGermany
| | - Monique Schwobeda
- Faculty of HealthNursingAdministrationUniversity of Applied Sciences NeubrandenburgNeubrandenburgGermany
| | - Karen Simon
- Faculty of HealthNursingAdministrationUniversity of Applied Sciences NeubrandenburgNeubrandenburgGermany
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Zawahir S, Lekamwasam S, Aslani P. Antibiotic dispensing practice in community pharmacies: A simulated client study. Res Social Adm Pharm 2018; 15:584-590. [PMID: 30093309 DOI: 10.1016/j.sapharm.2018.07.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2018] [Revised: 07/03/2018] [Accepted: 07/27/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dispensing antibiotics without a prescription, although forbidden by Sri Lankan law since 1986, is a common practice throughout the country. This study attempted to quantify this practice for the first time. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the response of community pharmacy staff to an antibiotic product request without a prescription and to explore possible factors influencing such practice. METHODS A cross-sectional simulated client study was conducted from Jan to Sept 2017. A total of 242 community pharmacies were visited by trained simulated clients (SCs) and they requested for one of four antibiotics (erythromycin tablets, amoxicillin syrup, metronidazole tablets, or ciprofloxacin tablets) without a prescription. Data on the interaction between the pharmacy staff and SC was recorded using a data collection sheet immediately after each visit. RESULTS Nearly 50% of pharmacies had a pharmacist on duty during the visit. Attending pharmacy staff asked for a prescription for the requested antibiotic in 47% of the instances. Only 16 (7%) pharmacy staff recommended the SC to see a doctor. Overall, 61% of pharmacies dispensed antibiotics without a prescription. The highest dispensed antibiotic was ciprofloxacin (44/63 requests; 70%) and the least was amoxicillin (32/62; 52%). Patient history was obtained in only a few instances and none of the pharmacies dispensed alternative over the counter medicines. The availability of a pharmacist reduced the risk of dispensing an antibiotic without a prescription (Adj. OR = 0.54, 95% CI: 0.30-0.95; P = 0.033), however, it did not have any impact on patient history taking. CONCLUSIONS Dispensing antibiotics without a prescription is a common practice in Sri Lankan community pharmacies. In most instances, pharmacy staff neither inquired about patient history nor requested the patient to obtain the advice of a doctor. Presence of a pharmacist may reduce dispensing antibiotics without prescription, but may not have an effect on interactions with clients requesting antibiotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shukry Zawahir
- The University of Sydney School of Pharmacy, NSW, Australia
| | - Sarath Lekamwasam
- Population Health Research Centre, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka
| | - Parisa Aslani
- The University of Sydney School of Pharmacy, NSW, Australia.
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Ibrahim MIM. Assessment of Medication Dispensing and Extended Community Pharmacy Services. SOCIAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE ASPECTS OF PHARMACY IN LOW- AND MIDDLE-INCOME COUNTRIES 2018. [PMCID: PMC7149718 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-811228-1.00018-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Individuals who visit community pharmacies are regarded as customers rather than patients. The public tends to view community pharmacists as businesspeople. Several factors influence individuals' willingness to patronize and to continue visiting such pharmacies. On the supply side, community pharmacists' responsibilities and duties center on the health and well-being of society. In this chapter, an assessment of community pharmacy practices in developing countries is particularly interesting in terms of medication dispensing and extended pharmacy services that promote public wellness. Community pharmacists in developing countries, who are supposedly strategically positioned in the community to provide public health, are not taking advantage on this opportunity. Although several studies have noted the services provided by community pharmacists, in general, the practice is far from meeting expectations due to several barriers. Pharmacists need to realize their opportunities and potential for success as both professionals and businesspeople.
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Gebregeorgise DT, Mohammed TA, Redi ZS, Sporrong SK. Customers' perceptions of and satisfaction with medicine retail outlet services in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHARMACY PRACTICE 2017; 26:222-231. [PMID: 28737242 DOI: 10.1111/ijpp.12384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2016] [Accepted: 05/15/2017] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to assess customers' perceptions of and satisfaction with MRO services in Addis Ababa and to explore factors associated with their satisfaction and reasons for visits. METHODS A cross-sectional survey was conducted among customers selected from 28 MROs in Addis Ababa, using multi-stage sampling techniques. Simple descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression at 95% confidence interval were used for the analysis. KEY FINDINGS Of 396 respondents, 324 (81.8%) visited MROs to purchase prescription medicines. A majority (338/396; 85.4%) of them perceived that pharmacists and druggists (pharmacy professionals) play a major role in healthcare delivery. A third (140/396; 35.4%) of the respondents agreed with the statement that pharmacy professionals are more concerned about patient care than about their business. Regarding reasons for visiting, being married was positively associated with buying over-the-counter, higher educational status was linked with more satisfaction. Overall, 56.8% (225/396) of the respondents reported that they were satisfied with the service provided by MROs. CONCLUSION Customers of MROs had mixed perceptions of and satisfaction with the current service. Marital status and age were associated with the reason for visiting, while the educational level was associated with the level of satisfaction. The overall positive perceptions and satisfaction about MROs should be taken as an opportunity to promote and improve pharmaceutical services rendered in MROs, to ensure that the public is receiving maximum benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dawit T Gebregeorgise
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Social Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Tofik A Mohammed
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Social Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Zebiba S Redi
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Social Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Sofia Kälvemark Sporrong
- Section for Social and Clinical Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacy, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Hashmi FK, Hassali MA, Khalid A, Saleem F, Aljadhey H, Babar ZUD, Bashaar M. A qualitative study exploring perceptions and attitudes of community pharmacists about extended pharmacy services in Lahore, Pakistan. BMC Health Serv Res 2017; 17:500. [PMID: 28724411 PMCID: PMC5518160 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-017-2442-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2016] [Accepted: 07/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In recent decades, community pharmacies reported a change of business model, whereby a shift from traditional services to the provision of extended roles was observed. However, such delivery of extended pharmacy services (EPS) is reported from the developed world, and there is scarcity of information from the developing nations. Within this context, the present study was aimed to explore knowledge, perception and attitude of community pharmacists (CPs) about EPS and their readiness and acceptance for practice change in the city of Lahore, Pakistan. Methods A qualitative approach was used to gain an in-depth knowledge of the issues. By using a semi-structured interview guide, 12 CPs practicing in the city of Lahore, Pakistan were conveniently selected. All interviews were audio-taped, transcribed verbatim, and were then analyzed for thematic contents by the standard content analysis framework. Results Thematic content analysis yielded five major themes. (1) Familiarity with EPS, (2) current practice of EPS, (3) training needed to provide EPS, (4) acceptance of EPS and (5) barriers toward EPS. Majority of the CPs were unaware of EPS and only a handful had the concept of extended services. Although majority of our study respondents were unaware of pharmaceutical care, they were ready to accept practice change if provided with the required skills and training. Lack of personal knowledge, poor public awareness, inadequate physician-pharmacist collaboration and deprived salary structures were reported as barriers towards the provision of EPS at the practice settings. Conclusion Although the study reported poor awareness towards EPS, the findings indicated a number of key themes that can be used in establishing the concept of EPS in Pakistan. Over all, CPs reported a positive attitude toward practice change provided to the support and facilitation of health and community based agencies in Pakistan. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12913-017-2442-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Furqan K Hashmi
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia
| | | | | | - Fahad Saleem
- Faculty of Pharmacy & Health Sciences, University of Baluchistan, Quetta, Pakistan
| | - Hisham Aljadhey
- College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Zaheer Ud Din Babar
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Applied Sciences, University of Huddersfield, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, England
| | - Mohammad Bashaar
- SMART Afghan International Trainings & Consultancy, Kabul, Afghanistan.
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Erku DA, Mekuria AB, Surur AS, Gebresillassie BM. Extent of dispensing prescription-only medications without a prescription in community drug retail outlets in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: a simulated-patient study. Drug Healthc Patient Saf 2016; 8:65-70. [PMID: 27471409 PMCID: PMC4948721 DOI: 10.2147/dhps.s106948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study was aimed at assessing the extent of dispensing prescription-only medications without a prescription in community drug retail outlets (CDROs) of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. METHODS A descriptive cross-sectional observational study design was used to sample 31 pharmacies, 25 drug stores, and two rural drug vendors from August 11, 2015, to October 21, 2015, through a simple random sampling method. A simulated-patient method of visit was implemented to collect data. Requests of six tracer prescription-only medicines (amoxicillin + clavulanic acid capsule, amitriptyline, captopril, glibenclamide [also known as glyburide], omeprazole capsule, and sildenafil citrate) and upper respiratory tract infection were selected as the simulated clinical scenario. RESULTS Amoxicillin-clavulanic acid capsule was dispensed when requested in 87.93% of the dispensaries. All of the CDROs dispensed omeprazole upon request. Sildenafil citrate (Viagra) was in stock in 96.55% of the CDROs, all of which issued the requested number of tablets without asking why or for whom the drug was needed. Amitriptyline, captopril, and glibenclamide (glyburide) were dispensed in 84.48%, 89.65%, and 87.93% of CDROs upon the provision of an empty container. Antibiotics were obtained from 75.86% of CDROs for presentation of upper respiratory tract infection symptoms. Among the dispensed antibiotics, the most common was amoxicillin (93.18%), followed by amoxicillin-clavulanic acid capsule (72.72%), and azithromycin (50%). Only 4.5% of the dispensaries asked about drug allergies, and 15.9% of the CDROs informed the simulated patient about the possible side effects of the drugs. CONCLUSION This study revealed a very high rate of dispensing of prescription-only medicines without a prescription. Antimicrobials and drugs for chronic diseases were obtained with ease from almost all of the randomly sampled CDROs. Putting good dispensing practice into effect and adhering to the existing national laws and regulations regarding the same are necessary. It is also necessary to adopt a strong and explicit line of action, especially toward the irrational use of antibiotics.
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Abegaz TM, Belachew SA, Abebe TB, Gebresilassie BM, Teni FS, Woldie HG. Management of children's acute diarrhea by community pharmacies in five towns of Ethiopia: simulated client case study. Ther Clin Risk Manag 2016; 12:515-26. [PMID: 27103810 PMCID: PMC4827418 DOI: 10.2147/tcrm.s98474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acute diarrhea is the major cause of child morbidity and mortality in low-income nations. It is the second most common cause of death among children <5 years of age globally. The indispensable role of community pharmacists is clearly observed in the prevention and treatment of diarrhea. However, there is a paucity of data on how community pharmacies manage acute childhood diarrhea cases in Ethiopia. This study aimed to evaluate the experience of community pharmacies in the management of acute diarrhea in northern Ethiopia. METHODS A simulated case-based cross-sectional study was conducted in community pharmacies from five towns of northern Ethiopia between April 2015 and September 2015. Convenience sampling technique was used to select sample towns. A structured questionnaire was organized to collect the information. Descriptive statistics, chi-squared test, one-way analysis of variance, and binary logistic regression were performed to describe, infer, and test for association between the variables. SPSS for Windows Version 21 was used to enter and analyze the data. A 95% confidence interval and P-value of 0.05 were set to test the level of significance. RESULTS Approximately 113 community pharmacies were visited to collect the required data from five towns. Majority (78, 69%) of them were located away from hospitals and health care areas. Nine components of history taking were presented for dispensers. Regarding the patient history, "age" was frequently taken, (90.3%), whereas "chief complaint" was the least to be taken (23%), for patients presenting with diarrhea. Approximately 96 (85.0%) cases were provided with one or more medications. The remaining 17 (15%) cases did not receive any medication. A total of six pharmacologic groups of medications were given to alleviate acute diarrheal symptoms. Majority (66, 29.6%) of the medications were oral rehydration salts with zinc. The mean number of medications was 1.99 per visit. Components of advice, such as dose, frequency, duration, drug action, and adverse drug reactions, were found to vary among the five towns at a statistically significant level. CONCLUSION Community pharmacies provided inadequate treatment for acute childhood diarrhea. Inappropriate history taking and incorrect drug and food instructions have been frequently encountered during acute diarrhea management. Practitioners working in northern Ethiopia should receive proper training on the management of acute childhood diarrhea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tadesse Melaku Abegaz
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Gondar University, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | | | - Tamrat Befekadu Abebe
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Gondar University, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | | | - Fitsum Sebsibe Teni
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Social Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Miller R, Goodman C. Performance of retail pharmacies in low- and middle-income Asian settings: a systematic review. Health Policy Plan 2016; 31:940-953. [PMID: 26962123 PMCID: PMC4977427 DOI: 10.1093/heapol/czw007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) in Asia, pharmacies are often patients' first point of contact with the health care system and their preferred channel for purchasing medicines. Unfortunately, pharmacy practice in these settings has been characterized by deficient knowledge and inappropriate treatment. This paper systematically reviews both the performance of all types of pharmacies and drug stores across Asia's LMIC, and the determinants of poor practice, in order to reflect on how this could best be addressed. Poor pharmacy practice in Asia appears to have persisted over the past 30 years. We identify a set of inadequacies that occur at key moments throughout the pharmacy encounter, including: insufficient history taking; lack of referral of patients who require medical attention; illegal sale of a wide range of prescription only medicines without a prescription; sale of medicines that are either clinically inappropriate and/or in doses that are outside of the therapeutic range; sale of incomplete courses of antibiotics; and limited provision of information and counselling. In terms of determinants of poor practice, first knowledge was found to be necessary but not sufficient to ensure correct management of patients presenting at the pharmacy. This is evidenced by large discrepancies between stated and actual practice; little difference in the treatment behaviour of less and more qualified personnel and the failure of training programmes to improve practice to a satisfactory level. Second, we identified a number of profit maximizing strategies employed by pharmacy staff that can be linked to poor practices. Finally, whilst the research is relatively sparse, the regulatory environment appears to play an important role in shaping behaviour. Future efforts to improve the situation may yield more success than historical attempts, which have tended to concentrate on education, if they address the profit incentives faced by pharmacy personnel and the regulatory system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosalind Miller
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Catherine Goodman
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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Development of a decision support system for the practice of responsible self-medication. Int J Clin Pharm 2015; 38:152-61. [DOI: 10.1007/s11096-015-0223-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2014] [Accepted: 11/11/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Brata C, Gudka S, Schneider CR, Clifford RM. A review of the provision of appropriate advice by pharmacy staff for self-medication in developing countries. Res Social Adm Pharm 2014; 11:136-53. [PMID: 25139059 DOI: 10.1016/j.sapharm.2014.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2014] [Accepted: 07/11/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients in developing countries often prefer to self-medicate via community pharmacies. Pharmacy staff are therefore in a strategic position to optimize the health of the public by providing appropriate advice to patients who self-medicate. OBJECTIVE To determine the proportion of pharmacy staff who provide appropriate advice when handling self-medication requests in developing countries. METHOD A literature search was undertaken via MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL Plus, Web of Science and International Pharmaceutical Abstracts. Studies that reported on the proportion of pharmacy staff providing appropriate advice when handling self-medication requests in developing countries were included. The appropriateness of advice was determined by each author's definition in the original studies. RESULTS Twenty-eight studies met the inclusion criteria. There were variations in methods, scenarios, how the authors reported and defined appropriate advice, and study populations. The proportion of pharmacy staff providing appropriate advice varied widely from 0% to 96%, with a minority providing appropriate advice in 83% of the scenarios performed. CONCLUSION There was considerable variation in results, with the majority of studies reporting that inappropriate advice was provided by pharmacy staff when handling self-medication requests in developing countries. Consistent and robust methods are required to provide comparisons across practice settings. There is also a need to identify contributing factors to poor provision of advice for developing intervention strategies for practice improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia Brata
- Pharmacy, School of Medicine and Pharmacology, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia; Centre of Medicine Information and Pharmaceutical Care, The University of Surabaya, Surabaya, Indonesia.
| | - Sajni Gudka
- Pharmacy, School of Medicine and Pharmacology, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Carl R Schneider
- Faculty of Pharmacy, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Rhonda M Clifford
- Pharmacy, School of Medicine and Pharmacology, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
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Ogbo PU, Aina BA, Aderemi-Williams RI. Management of acute diarrhea in children by community pharmacists in Lagos, Nigeria. Pharm Pract (Granada) 2014; 12:376. [PMID: 24644521 PMCID: PMC3955866 DOI: 10.4321/s1886-36552014000100002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2013] [Accepted: 02/23/2014] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acute diarrhea in children leads to dehydration and death if not appropriately managed. World Health Organization (WHO) recommends treating diarrhea with oral rehydration therapy (ORT), fluids and foods. Proper management is hinged on accurate assessment of patients to identify the acute watery diarrhea. OBJECTIVE To compare the knowledge and attitude of community pharmacists in the management of acute diarrhea in children with their observed practice. METHODS THIS STUDY WAS CARRIED OUT USING TWO INSTRUMENTS: structured self-administered questionnaire to assess knowledge and attitude of community pharmacists in the management of acute diarrhea in children and simulated patient visits to evaluate assessment of patients, recommendation of products and instructions on feeding and fluid intake. The simulated patient visits were done in 186 pharmacies in the city of Lagos, Nigeria. RESULTS The study reveals that the knowledge and attitude of community pharmacists in the management of acute diarrhea in children was different from their observed practice. The difference was statistically significant (p<0.05). During the simulations, 23% carried out appropriate assessment before recommending any products, and 15% recommended ORT alone. Although information to the pharmacists indicated non-dysentery, non-cholera, acute watery diarrhea, antibiotics and antidiarrheals were irrationally recommended and these were the mainstay of symptoms' management in practice. Questionnaire data revealed that 24% of pharmacists knew the correct instructions to give on food and fluid intake during diarrhea, whereas 8% followed WHO guideline on food and fluid intake during the visits. CONCLUSIONS Assessment of patients to determine acute diarrhea was inadequate. Observed practice in managing acute diarrhea in children was inappropriate and significantly different from their claims in the questionnaire. The recommendation of ORT was scanty and advice on food and fluid intake was inadequate and sometimes inappropriate. This study shows that only 15% of community pharmacists managed acute diarrhea in children according to the WHO guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia U Ogbo
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Biopharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Lagos . Lagos ( Nigeria ).
| | - Bolajoko A Aina
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Biopharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Lagos . Lagos ( Nigeria ).
| | - Roseline I Aderemi-Williams
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Biopharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Lagos . Lagos ( Nigeria ).
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Pham DM, Byrkit M, Pham HV, Pham T, Nguyen CT. Improving pharmacy staff knowledge and practice on childhood diarrhea management in Vietnam: are educational interventions effective? PLoS One 2013; 8:e74882. [PMID: 24098355 PMCID: PMC3789740 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0074882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2013] [Accepted: 08/11/2013] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In many developing countries, private pharmacies play an important role in providing health information and services to local communities for common health issues. The aim of this study was to ascertain medium-term impact of educational interventions on knowledge and practice of pharmacy staff regarding management of childhood diarrhea in Vietnam. METHODS This was a pre- and post-intervention study with 32 and 44 months difference from the time of the baseline survey to the conclusion of trainings and the time of the end-line survey, respectively. Interventions included in-class training for pharmacy staff, printed materials at the pharmacy, and supportive supervision. Knowledge/reported practice and actual practice of pharmacy staff were measured before and after interventions. RESULTS After interventions, significant improvements (p<0.01) were observed for all indexes related to pharmacy staff's knowledge about childhood diarrhea; for instance, 31% and 60% of surveyed staff asked about weight of the child and accompanying symptoms of childhood diarrhea, respectively, an increase from 11% and 45% at the baseline. Oral rehydration solution (ORS) was the most frequently reported product recommended (97% to 99%), but probiotics and antidiarrheals were the products most frequently prescribed at pharmacies. Public health facilities remained the preferred choice for referrals from pharmacies, but the use of private clinics was increasing. Consultations and advice provided to caregivers also improved, but considerable gaps between knowledge and actual practice of staff in real pharmacy settings remained. CONCLUSIONS Educational interventions were effective in improving pharmacy staff knowledge and practice regarding management of childhood diarrhea. Knowledge and actual practice of staff in real pharmacy settings did not always correlate; there is need for a stronger regulatory and law enforcement system. Interventions to improve pharmacy practice in developing countries should be focused, comprehensive, and evidence-based.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duc Minh Pham
- PATH, Hanoi, Vietnam
- Management Science for Health, Hanoi, Vietnam
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Malik M, Hassali MA, Shafie AA, Hussain A, Aljadhey H, Saleem F. Case management of malaria fever at community pharmacies in Pakistan: a threat to rational drug use. Pharm Pract (Granada) 2013; 11:8-16. [PMID: 24155844 PMCID: PMC3780510 DOI: 10.4321/s1886-36552013000100003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2013] [Accepted: 03/22/2013] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To document the case management of uncomplicated malaria fever at community pharmacies located in the two major cities of Pakistan; Islamabad (national capital) and Rawalpindi (twin city). METHODS A comparative, cross-sectional study was designed to document the management of uncomplicated malaria fever at community pharmacies in twin cities of Pakistan through simulated patient visits. Visits were conducted in 238 randomly selected pharmacies to request advice for a simulated patient case of malaria. The pharmacy's management was scored on a checklist including history taking and provision of advice and information. Kruskal-Wallis test and Mann-Whitney U test were used to compare management of uncomplicated malaria fever by different types of dispensers working at community pharmacies situated at different locations in the twin cities. RESULTS The simulated patients were handled by salesmen (74.8%, n=178), pharmacist (5.4%, n=13) and diploma holders (19.8 %, n=47). Medication was dispensed in 83.1 % (n=198) of the visits, but only few of the treated cases were in accordance to standard treatment guidelines for malaria. However, in 14.8% (n=35) of the cases the simulated patients were directly referred to a physician. There was a significant difference observed in the process of history taking performed by different dispensers (e.g. pharmacist, pharmacy assistant, pharmacy diploma holders and salesman) while no significant differences in the provision of advice by these dispensers was observed. Pharmacists were seen more frequently involved in the process of history taking if available at the community pharmacies. On the other hand, no significant differences were observed in the case management (history taking and provision of advice) for the treatment of malaria fever among community pharmacies situated at different locations (e.g. near hospital/super market/small market) in the twin cities. CONCLUSIONS The results of the study revealed that the overall process of disease management of uncomplicated malaria fever at community pharmacies was not in accordance with the national standard treatment guidelines for malaria. Patients were being treated by untrained personnel's at community pharmacies without any understanding of referral. However, pharmacists were more frequently involved in history taking, though their availability was low at community pharmacies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madeeha Malik
- Discipline of Social and Administrative Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia. Penang, (Malaysia) & Hamdard Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hamdard University. Islamabad, (Pakistan)
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