1
|
Udoh A, Ernawati D, Ikhile I, Yahyouche A. Pharmacists' Willingness to Offer Vaccination Services: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. PHARMACY 2024; 12:98. [PMID: 39051382 PMCID: PMC11270253 DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy12040098] [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: 05/13/2024] [Revised: 06/18/2024] [Accepted: 06/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Pharmacy-based vaccination (PBV) services increase coverage and enhance access to lifesaving vaccines. This systematic review assessed the proportion of pharmacists willing to offer PBV services. PubMed/MEDLINE, CINAHL, EMBASE and Scopus electronic databases were searched from inception to identify relevant literature. Google scholar and other sources of grey literature was also searched. The literature findings were synthesized narratively, and via a random-effects meta-analysis. Risk of bias was evaluated using nine quality assessment criteria adapted from the Joanna Briggs Institute checklist for prevalence studies. The review protocol is registered on PROSPERO (REF: CRD42021293692). In total, 967 articles were identified from the literature search. Of this, 34 articles from 19 countries across 5 WHO regions were included in the review. No article from the Western Pacific WHO region was identified. Most of the included studies (n = 21, 61.8%) showed an overall low risk of bias. None showed a high risk of bias. Pooled willingness for PBV services was 69.45% (95% CI: 61.58-76.33; n total pharmacists = 8877), indicating that most pharmacists were willing to offer the service, although nearly a third were not. Pharmacists' willingness was highest in the Americas (71.49%, 95% CI: 53.32-84.63, n pharmacists = 3842) and lowest in the African region (58.71%, 95% CI: 45.86-70.46, n pharmacists = 1080) although the between-group difference was not statistically significant across the WHO regions (Q = 3.01, df = 4, p < 0.5567). Meta-regression showed no evidence (R2 = 0%, p = 0.9871) of the moderating effect of the type of vaccine assessed, PBV service availability, sampling technique and the study risk of bias. These findings show that most pharmacists are willing to offer PBV services; however, strategies that will enhance greater involvement in service provision are needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arit Udoh
- Faculty of Health & Life Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter EX1 2LU, UK
| | - Desak Ernawati
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapy, Universitas Udayana, Denpasar 80234, Bali, Indonesia;
| | - Ifunanya Ikhile
- School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK;
| | - Asma Yahyouche
- School of Pharmacy, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK;
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Ngwu RO, Lindeau R, Bielecki LM, Daly CJ. Assessing Community Pharmacists' Perception on Readiness to Initiate Point-of-Care Testing for SARS-CoV-2 in New York State During the Pandemic. J Pharm Pract 2024; 37:324-334. [PMID: 36242519 DOI: 10.1177/08971900221134642] [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: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Pursuant to the COVID-19 pandemic, an executive order issued by the New York State (NYS) governor allowed pharmacists to act as laboratory directors for a limited-service laboratory (LSL) to order and perform Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendment (CLIA)-waived COVID-19 point-of-care testing (POCT). Objectives: To (i) assess the status of NYS community pharmacists with POCT in the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, (ii) assess the readiness and willingness of community pharmacists to incorporate COVID-19 POCT into their workflow during a pandemic, and (iii) assess community pharmacists' perception of the barrier to initiating COVID-19 POCT. Methods: This is a prospective cross-sectional study conducted from February 4 to February 21, 2021. An electronic survey consisting of 66 Likert-type questions, select all that apply, and fill-in-style questions were emailed to 250 Community Pharmacy Enhanced Service Network (CPESN) NY pharmacies, with a follow-up email sent halfway into the data collection period. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: The result indicated that most participants (median = 5) demonstrated readiness and willingness to offer COVID-19 testing. Barriers to COVID-19 POCT were identified: impact on pharmacy workflow (59%), lack of payment mechanism (55%) and lack of sufficient training (21%). Most participants expressed interest in continuing POCT beyond the pandemic (86.1%). Conclusion: Community pharmacists in NYS reported willingness to initiate COVID-19 POCT. Addressing the identified barriers, such as workflow disruption and reimbursement challenges, will enable pharmacies to be better prepared to provide patient care, including POCT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ruth O Ngwu
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, University at Buffalo School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Buffalo, NY, USA
- Middleport Family Health Center, Middleport, NY, USA
| | - Ryan Lindeau
- Primary care of Western New York, Buffalo, NY, USA
| | | | - Christopher J Daly
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, University at Buffalo School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Buffalo, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Bekele F, Samuel D, Tafese L. Pharmacist as vaccinators: the way forward for pharmacist-administered vaccinations in low-resource settings: Editorial. Ann Med Surg (Lond) 2024; 86:1828-1829. [PMID: 38576923 PMCID: PMC10990387 DOI: 10.1097/ms9.0000000000001845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Firomsa Bekele
- Department of Pharmacy, Institute of Health Science, Wallaga University, Nekemte
| | - Dagim Samuel
- Department of Pharmacy, Institute of Health Science, Wallaga University, Nekemte
| | - Lalise Tafese
- Department of Health Informatics, College of Health Science, Mattu University, Mattu, Ethiopia
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Plewka B, Waszyk-Nowaczyk M, Cerbin-Koczorowska M, Przymuszała P, Osmałek T. Perception of Polish pharmacy students on simulation exercise in pharmaceutical care for diabetes-a pilot study. BMC MEDICAL EDUCATION 2024; 24:283. [PMID: 38486206 PMCID: PMC10941357 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-024-05245-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The transformation of a pharmacist's role from that of a drug dispenser to an advisor and patient educator, partially accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, requires a thorough change in the pharmacy curriculum. Preparation for the provision of modern pharmaceutical services requires the use of the most advanced teaching methods, such as pharmaceutical simulation. Knowledge alone does not guarantee students' readiness and motivation to take on new challenges in their professional work, but it seems crucial that graduates of medical faculties have the ability to practically apply their knowledge, including in new and nonstandard situations. Therefore, in our study, we proposed an intervention using a simulation method (peer role play) in teaching pharmaceutical care, and we assessed its impact on students' levels of self-perceived confidence and self-efficacy in accordance with Bandura's theory. The aim of the study was to verify whether the introduction of these types of classes could be a useful element of pharmacy curriculum renewal. METHODS The questionnaire-based study was conducted during pharmaceutical care peer role-playing classes in a simulation environment with a debriefing session among 85 final-year pharmacy students at Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poland. The questionnaire consisted of two surveys: the General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSE) and a pre-post self-assessment and self-efficacy questionnaire. RESULTS There was a positive correlation between the GSE score and self-efficacy (R = 0.52, p < 0.0001). A statistically significant increase in the post-self-assessment of all the skills and competencies included in the survey in the field of pharmaceutical care of a patient with diabetes compared to the pre-values was also observed (p < 0.001). Additionally, the students' self-efficacy in terms of communicating with patients was greater following the class than before the class (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS The peer role-play active teaching method was found to be a cost-effective method allowing for an increase in the self-assessment and self-efficacy of pharmacy students in diabetic patient pharmaceutical care. However, further in-depth research is needed to fully confirm the effectiveness of simulation exercises for teaching pharmacy undergraduates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Beata Plewka
- Pharmacy Practice and Pharmaceutical Care Division, Chair and Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 3 Rokietnicka Street, Poznan, 60-806, Poland.
| | - Magdalena Waszyk-Nowaczyk
- Pharmacy Practice and Pharmaceutical Care Division, Chair and Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 3 Rokietnicka Street, Poznan, 60-806, Poland
| | - Magdalena Cerbin-Koczorowska
- Edinburgh Medical School: Medical Education, University of Edinburgh, Chancellor's Building, Edinburgh, EH16 4SB, Scotland
| | - Piotr Przymuszała
- Department of Medical Education, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 7 Rokietnicka Street, Poznan, 60-806, Poland
| | - Tomasz Osmałek
- Chair and Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 3 Rokietnicka Street, Poznan, 60-806, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Raczkiewicz D, Owoc J, Bojar I, Sarecka-Hujar B. Satisfaction of people at post-working age with pharmacists' health promotion in Poland. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:281. [PMID: 38262991 PMCID: PMC10807121 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-17751-3] [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: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The study aimed to analyze how people at post-working age evaluate health promotion conducted for them by pharmacists in community pharmacies in Poland. We also assessed whether this evaluation is correlated with the frequency of health behaviors. METHODS The study comprised 712 Polish people at post-working age (retired), including women 60 + and men 65+. Health Behaviors Inventory and authors' Questionnaire for Evaluation of Pharmacists' Health Promotion were used. RESULTS Conducting health promotion by pharmacists in community pharmacies is relevant in the opinion of post-working-aged people (5.8 on average in the scale of 1-10). However, the patients were not satisfied with the reliability (4.7), accessibility (4.7), communicativeness (5.0), and effectiveness (4.6) of health promotion provided by pharmacists for them. The empathy and politeness of pharmacists during health promotion were rated neutrally (5.4, i.e. neither good nor bad). The evaluations of reliability, accessibility, communicativeness, empathy and politeness, relevance, and effectiveness of pharmacists' health promotion did not correlate with age, marital status, place of residence, type of job in the past, or chronic pain currently (p > 0.05). The men evaluated accessibility higher than the women (5.1 vs. 4.6, p = 0.049), but the other domains were evaluated similarly by both genders (p > 0.05). All the domains of pharmacists' health promotion were assessed the better the higher the frequency of health behaviors the post-working aged people was. CONCLUSIONS People in post-working age assessed that health promotion conducted by pharmacists in community pharmacies is important, however they were not satisfied with the reliability, accessibility, communicativeness, and effectiveness of health promotion conducted by pharmacists.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dorota Raczkiewicz
- Department of Medical Statistics, School of Public Health, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, Kleczewska 61/63 Street, 01-826, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jakub Owoc
- National Institute of Geriatrics, Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, Spartańska 1 Street, 02-637, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Iwona Bojar
- Department of Women's Health, Institute of Rural Health in Lublin, Jaczewskiego 2 Street, 20- 090, Lublin, Poland
| | - Beata Sarecka-Hujar
- Department of Basic Biomedical Science, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences in Sosnowiec, Medical University of Silesia in Katowice, Kasztanowa 3 Street, 41-200, Sosnowiec, Poland.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Soklaridis S, Chowdhury M, Turco MG, Tremblay M, Mazmanian P, Williams B, Besa R, Sockalingam S. Pivoting Continuing Professional Development During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Narrative Scoping Review of Adaptations and Innovations. THE JOURNAL OF CONTINUING EDUCATION IN THE HEALTH PROFESSIONS 2024:00005141-990000000-00104. [PMID: 38205969 DOI: 10.1097/ceh.0000000000000539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Most formal continuing professional development (CPD) opportunities were offered in person until March 2020 when the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted traditional structures of CPD offerings. The authors explored the adaptations and innovations in CPD that were strengthened or newly created during the first 16 months of the pandemic. METHODS The objectives of the narrative review were to answer the following questions: (1) what types of adaptations to CPD innovations are described? and (2) what may shape future innovations in CPD? The following databases were searched: Medline, Embase, CINAHL, and ERIC to identify the literature published between March 2020 to July 2021. The authors conducted a comprehensive search by including all study types that described adaptations and/or innovations in CPD during the stated pandemic period. RESULTS Of the 8295 citations retrieved from databases, 191 satisfied the inclusion criteria. The authors found three categories to describe adaptations to CPD innovations: (1) creation of new online resources, (2) increased use of the existing online platforms/software to deliver CPD, and (3) use of simulation for teaching and learning. Reported advantages and disadvantages associated with these adaptations included logistical, interactional, and capacity building elements. The review identified five potential future CPD innovations: (1) empirical research on the effectiveness of virtual learning; (2) novel roles and ways of thinking; (3) learning from other disciplines beyond medicine; (4) formation of a global perspective; and (5) emerging wellness initiatives. DISCUSSION This review provided an overview of the adaptations and innovations that may shape the future of CPD beyond the pandemic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Soklaridis
- Dr. Soklaridis: Senior Scientist, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, Department of Psychiatry, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, Department of Family and Community Medicine, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, and The Wilson Centre, University Health Network/University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Ms. Chowdhury: PhD (cand.), Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Dr. Turco: Associate Professor of Medicine, Department of Medicine, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Centre/Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, NH. Dr. Tremblay: Senior Research and Innovation Advisor, Fédération des médecins spécialistes du Québec, Montréal, Québec, Canada. Dr. Mazmanian: Professor Emeritus, Department of Preventive Medicine and Community Health, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA. Dr. Williams: Clinical Program Director, Professional Renewal Centre, Lawrence, KS, and Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Kansas, Kansas City, KS. Ms. Besa: Information Specialist, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Dr. Sockalingam: Vice-President Education, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, Department of Psychiatry, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, and The Wilson Centre, University Health Network/University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
8
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Aarnes RV, Nilsen MK. Norwegian Community Pharmacists' Experiences with COVID-19 Vaccination-A Qualitative Interview Study. PHARMACY 2023; 11:181. [PMID: 37987391 PMCID: PMC10661255 DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy11060181] [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: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immunising the population became important during the COVID-19 pandemic. Community pharmacies in Norway collaborated with municipalities to offer a vaccination services to increase the vaccination rate. Only some pharmacies were allowed to offer this service in the pandemic's early phase. This study learns about pharmacists' experiences during this first period of COVID-19 vaccination services in community pharmacies, which is relevant for informing policy and organisational decision makers about the feasibility and acceptability of pharmacy vaccination. METHODS Individual interviews were conducted with 13 pharmacists in community pharmacies offering a COVID-19 vaccination service. Informants were recruited from the eleven pharmacies that first offered COVID-19 vaccinations. The key themes in the interview were COVID-19 vaccination, what the pharmacists think about the vaccination service, and how it is performed. The data were analysed using systematic text condensation. RESULTS Three main themes and eight subthemes were identified. The main themes were creative solutions, organising and making resources available, and professionally satisfying and an important mission. The interviewed pharmacists experienced the COVID-19 vaccination service as hectic but something important that they would prioritise. They experienced their efforts to be substantial in the pandemic's early phase. CONCLUSIONS Pharmacists in community pharmacies were a resource for increasing the vaccination rate during the COVID-19 pandemic. The pharmacies' easy accessibility and the pharmacists' ability to adjust their daily workflow for a new service should be considered when an expanded healthcare service is needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ragnhild Vold Aarnes
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, 7491 Trondheim, Norway;
- Boots Pharmacy Surnadal, 6650 Surnadal, Norway
| | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Santos YS, de Souza Ferreira D, de Oliveira Silva ABM, da Silva Nunes CF, de Souza Oliveira SA, da Silva DT. Global overview of pharmacist and community pharmacy actions to address COVID-19: A scoping review. EXPLORATORY RESEARCH IN CLINICAL AND SOCIAL PHARMACY 2023; 10:100261. [PMID: 37096140 PMCID: PMC10091784 DOI: 10.1016/j.rcsop.2023.100261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Revised: 04/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/02/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Pharmacists and community pharmacies play an important role in managing, identifying and preventing the spread of the COVID-19 outbreak. Objectives To characterize the global panorama of action by pharmacists and community pharmacies in facing the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods The scoping review was based on the search for scientific articles in the databases: PubMed; Scopus; ScienceDirect and Web of Science. The search was carried out on August 31, 2021. The selection process was divided into 3 phases: i) title analysis; ii) analysis of study abstracts; iii) analysis of the full texts of the studies selected in the previous step. Studies were independently selected by two investigators and discrepancies resolved by consensus during focus group discussions led by a third reviewer. Results The final search yielded 36 articles for the review. The main strategies for coping with COVID-19 were grouped into 4 categories defined by consensus between the authors: (1) services for providing care to the patient; (2) product management; (3) infection prevention and control practices in community pharmacy; (4) preparation, sources of information used and training offered/received. Through these, the aim was to involve technical managerial, technical assistance and pedagogical technical actions adopted, as well as structure and process indicators that allowed the continuity of the offer of services. Conclusion During the pandemic, pharmacists and community pharmacies have been providing essential health services to communities. The results of this review may help to identify the changes adopted to face the COVID-19 pandemic and may contribute to improving the quality of practices in these establishments during the pandemic and after it, in similar situations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yane Silva Santos
- Member of the Geriatrics and Gerontology Study Group (GREGG) at the Federal University of Vale do São Francisco (UNIVASF), Petrolina (PE), Brazil
| | - Denise de Souza Ferreira
- Pharmacy students and Members of the Geriatrics and Gerontology Study Group (GREGG) at the Federal University of Vale do São Francisco (UNIVASF), Petrolina (PE), Brazil
| | - Any Beatriz Matos de Oliveira Silva
- Pharmacy students and Members of the Geriatrics and Gerontology Study Group (GREGG) at the Federal University of Vale do São Francisco (UNIVASF), Petrolina (PE), Brazil
| | - Clara Freire da Silva Nunes
- Pharmacy students and Members of the Geriatrics and Gerontology Study Group (GREGG) at the Federal University of Vale do São Francisco (UNIVASF), Petrolina (PE), Brazil
| | - Sueza Abadia de Souza Oliveira
- Master in Collective Health by Federal University of Goias. President of Brazilian Society of Pharmacists and Community Pharmacies, Brasília (DF), Brazil
| | - Daniel Tenório da Silva
- Coordinator of the Study Group on Geriatrics and Gerontology (GREGG) at the Federal University of Vale do São Francisco (UNIVASF), Petrolina (PE), Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Coalition Shaping the Vaccination Landscape. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:vaccines10122030. [PMID: 36560440 PMCID: PMC9783736 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10122030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
In 2022, the National Program for Influenza Prevention coalition will have its 10th anniversary; it is one of Poland's oldest educational initiatives. The National Program for Influenza Prevention was initiated to prevent a further decline and promote influenza prevention in the A(H1N1) post-pandemic years. In this review, we summarize the structure and operational model of the coalition and identify core functional elements that make it a key non-governmental organization involved in the prophylactics of communicable diseases. The coalition-based organization can operate in a complex environment, such as vaccinations requiring scientific, economic, social, and psychological involvement, and communications with different groups. Anchored to the history of the National Program for Influenza Prevention, we review Poland's vaccination landscape changes from the last ten years.
Collapse
|
12
|
Ang WC, Fadzil MS, Ishak FN, Adenan NN, Nik Mohamed MH. Readiness and willingness of Malaysian community pharmacists in providing vaccination services. J Pharm Policy Pract 2022; 15:81. [PMID: 36371271 PMCID: PMC9652855 DOI: 10.1186/s40545-022-00478-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Vaccination is an effective public health intervention in reducing morbidity and mortality of infectious diseases. Compared to other countries where community pharmacists (CPs) administer vaccines, CPs in Malaysia are not authorised. This study aimed to assess CPs' readiness and willingness to provide vaccination in Malaysia, identify potential barriers to and factors supporting the provision of this service. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among Malaysian CPs from April to June 2021. A validated online questionnaire was distributed through social media, instant messaging, email, and pharmacy societies. Results Of 492 CPs recruited throughout Malaysia, 439 (89.2%) expressed willingness to provide vaccination services to the public, 403 (81.9%) agreed with the accessibility of community pharmacies to the public, and 73.4% agreed that their role in vaccination could help to improve the overall vaccination coverage rate. The lack of pharmacist training in vaccination and concerns on maintaining patient safety were identified as barriers to CPs' implementation of vaccination services, with 52.8% and 47.8% of them agreeing, respectively. Training sessions and operational guidelines on providing vaccination services are required to overcome the barriers. Conclusion CPs in Malaysia were ready and willing to provide vaccination services to the public. However, the implementation demands training workshops and re-evaluation of CPs in public vaccination programmes by Malaysian healthcare policymakers.
Collapse
|
13
|
Merks P, Kowalczuk A, Wong A, Chung K, Religioni U, Świetlik D, Rotmans-Plagens K, Cameron J, Sola KF, Kazmierczak J, Blicharska E, Vaillancourt R, Neumann-Podczaska A. Patient satisfaction with pharmacist-administered COVID-19 vaccines in Poland: a survey study in the vaccination centres context. BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:1339. [DOI: 10.1186/s12913-022-08720-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Since 2021, pharmacists in Poland have been authorised to administer vaccinations against COVID-19, which is of particular significance in the efforts towards preventing the spread of the pandemic. The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the patients’ satisfaction with delivering vaccinations through national vaccination centres.
Methods
This study was conducted in 2021. The research tool was an anonymous questionnaire distributed to patients after vaccination. The questionnaire was developed specifically for the purpose of the study. Ultimately, 628 patients participated in this study.
Results
Nearly 97% of the respondents agreed that the administration of vaccinations by pharmacists had been convenient, and pharmacists possessed the relevant skills to provide this service. Almost 90% of the respondents expressed their readiness to be vaccinated by pharmacists again. Nearly all the respondents indicated that pharmacists should also provide other vaccinations.
Conclusions
Patients in Poland have a positive attitude toward vaccinations administered by pharmacists in national vaccination centres.
Collapse
|
14
|
El Hajj MS, Al‐Ziftawi N, Stewart D, Al‐Khater DMAY. Community pharmacists' participation in adult vaccination: A cross-sectional survey based on the theoretical domains framework. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2022; 89:773-786. [PMID: 36098619 PMCID: PMC9538350 DOI: 10.1111/bcp.15529] [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: 04/05/2022] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aims to assess Qatar community pharmacists' practices in advocating and promoting adult vaccination and to characterize and quantify potential determinants of participation in adult vaccination as vaccine administrators, based on the theoretical domains framework (TDF). METHODS A cross-sectional survey of a randomly selected sample of community pharmacists in Qatar was conducted using a self-administered validated questionnaire. Items in the questionnaire on potential determinants of participation in adult vaccination were based on TDF. TDF items were subjected to principal components analysis. RESULTS In total, 271 respondents completed the questionnaire (67.7%). Most respondents (83.5%) did not have any previous training in vaccination administration and were not involved in any vaccine-related advocacy activities (78.9%). Principal components analysis of TDF items gave eight components: pharmacists' perceived knowledge and skills (median score of 22, interquartile range [IQR] 17-26, possible range: 7-35); perceived confidence (16; IQR 12-20, possible range: 5-25); perceived external support (9; IQR 7-11, possible range: 3-15); professional role identity (38; IQR 33-42, possible range: 11-55); emotions (10; IQR 9-12, possible range: 3-15); perceived consequences (22; IQR 18-24, possible range: 6-30); perceived usefulness (16; IQR 14-18, possible range: 4-20); and behaviour control (6; IQR 4-8, possible range: 2-10). CONCLUSION Pharmacists' perceived knowledge, skills, confidence and behavioural control are potentially important factors to address to facilitate participation in vaccination administration in Qatar. Along with providing vaccination training to community pharmacists, there is a need to change the current pharmacy practice structure to improve managerial and government support for and to equip pharmacies with resources for this role.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Derek Stewart
- College of Pharmacy, QU HealthQatar UniversityDohaQatar
| | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Grzegorczyk-Karolak I, Zglińska-Pietrzak A, Weremczuk-Jeżyna I, Kałucka S. Evaluation of Patient Experiences Regarding Pharmacist-Administrated Vaccination and Attitude towards Future Additional Pharmacy Services in Poland. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:vaccines10091479. [PMID: 36146558 PMCID: PMC9501353 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10091479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2022] [Revised: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
In order to increase the number of vaccinations performed during the COVID-19 pandemic in Poland, a significant change was introduced in the legislation allowing for the vaccination to also be performed in pharmacies. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among those who chose a pharmacy as a vaccination point during the pandemic COVID-19. The aim of the study was to determine the overall level of patient satisfaction with pharmacist-administered vaccination in pharmacies and to examine patient opinions regarding the further expansion of pharmacy services. A patient survey was conducted immediately after vaccination in the period from January to March 2022. A total of 398 questionnaires were completed. The respondents reported high satisfaction with pharmacist-administered vaccinations (94.5%). In addition, the majority of consumers felt safe during the vaccination procedure (98.5%), and 88.4% declared they would come for other vaccinations at the pharmacy. The two main reasons for choosing this vaccination place were easy access regarding location (94.2%) and proposed vaccination hours (95.2%). The participants reported high levels of satisfaction concerning the pre-vaccination interview (91.2%), information level before immunization (91.5%), injection technique (96.7%), adjusting the premises to the service (95%) and general care in pharmacy after with vaccination (87.7%). The majority of respondents supported the future expansion of pharmacist-administered services, although the support rate ranged from 52% to 83% depending on the type of service offered. The majority of patients supported the continuation of ongoing prescriptions, blood pressure and blood glucose measurement services by pharmacists. Our findings indicate that the involvement of pharmacies in vaccination programs and other public health services met high levels of patient acceptance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Izabela Weremczuk-Jeżyna
- Department of Biology and Pharmaceutical Botany, Medical University of Lodz, 90-151 Lodz, Poland
| | - Sylwia Kałucka
- Department of Coordinated Care, Medical University of Lodz, 90-251 Lodz, Poland
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Patient Perceptions on Receiving Vaccination Services through Community Pharmacies. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19052538. [PMID: 35270231 PMCID: PMC8909877 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19052538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Revised: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
(1) Introduction: Pharmacists are medical professionals who play an active role in the protection of public health. Since 2021, pharmacists with an appropriate certification have been authorised to administer vaccines against COVID-19. (2) Objective: The objective of this study was to ascertain the perceptions of patients about receiving vaccinations through community pharmacies. (3) Material and methods: This study was conducted in 2021. The research tool was an anonymous questionnaire published on the websites of patient organisations. Ultimately, 1062 patients participated in this study. (4) Results: This study shows that most of the respondents find community pharmacies more accessible than outpatient clinics (85.3%). Sixty-one percent of the respondents stated that getting vaccinated at pharmacies would be less time consuming than at outpatient clinics. Nearly every third respondent (29.5%) declared that they would get vaccinated if they received such a recommendation from a pharmacist. Fifty-six percent of the respondents were of the opinion that the administration of vaccines by pharmacists would relieve the burden on medical staff and the healthcare system. (5) Conclusions: Polish patients participating in the study have a positive attitude towards the implementation of vaccination services in community pharmacies as an effective way of combating infectious diseases.
Collapse
|
18
|
Merks P, Religioni U, Waszyk-Nowaczyk M, Kaźmierczak J, Białoszewski A, Blicharska E, Kowalczuk A, Neumann-Podczaska A. Assessment of Pharmacists' Willingness to Conduct Medication Use Reviews in Poland. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19031867. [PMID: 35162889 PMCID: PMC8835186 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19031867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Revised: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Introduction. Pharmacists play an important role in healthcare. Their functions are evolving and, in many countries, they actively participate in interdisciplinary patient treatment. One of the most common services provided by pharmacists as part of pharmaceutical care in community pharmacies involves medication reviews. Objective. The objective of this study was to evaluate the readiness of pharmacists to conduct medication reviews in community pharmacies. Materials and methods. This study comprises 493 pharmacists from community pharmacies in Poland. A questionnaire (developed for the purposes of this study) was used. It consisted of eight questions regarding readiness to conduct medication reviews, along with personal data. Results. A total of 63.9% of the pharmacists were ready to conduct medication reviews, and 23.1% already had experience in this area. Participants were of the opinion that this service should be funded by the Ministry of Health or a third-party public payer, and overall was valued by the participants at PLN 169.04 (SD = 280.77) net per patient. Conclusions. Pharmacists in Poland have expressed their readiness to conduct medical reviews. Implementation of this service in community pharmacies in Poland can have a significant impact on optimising patient health outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Piotr Merks
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Collegium Medicum, Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński University in Warsaw, 01-938 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Urszula Religioni
- Collegium of Business Administration, Warsaw School of Economics, 02-513 Warsaw, Poland
- School of Public Health, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education of Warsaw, 01-826 Warsaw, Poland
- Correspondence:
| | - Magdalena Waszyk-Nowaczyk
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Pharmacy Practice Division, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-780 Poznan, Poland;
| | - Justyna Kaźmierczak
- Zdrowit sp. z o.o., Pharmacy Chain, ul. Diamentowa 3, 41-940 Piekary Śląskie, Poland;
| | - Artur Białoszewski
- Department of the Prevention of Environmental Hazards, Allergology and Immunology, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Eliza Blicharska
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Medical University of Lublin, Chodźki 4a St., 20-093 Lublin, Poland;
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Jarab AS, Al-Qerem W, Mukattash TL. Community pharmacists' willingness and barriers to provide vaccination during COVID-19 pandemic in Jordan. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2022; 18:2016009. [PMID: 35050841 PMCID: PMC8986174 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2021.2016009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Revised: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Providing vaccination in community pharmacies could increase the vaccination coverage rate as well as help reducing the workload of the healthcare system. The current study was conducted to evaluate community pharmacists' willingness and barriers to provide vaccination in community pharmacy setting. A validated questionnaire which included eight items to evaluate willingness and eleven items to evaluate the barriers to provide vaccines was distributed online. Binary logistic regression was conducted to explore the factors that are significantly associated with willingness and barriers to provide the vaccine. Among the 201 participating pharmacists, 174 (86.6%) had a high willingness level. Lack of authorization (91.6%), lack of collaboration with other healthcare professionals (85.6%), and lack of space for storage (74.1%) were the most recognized barriers to vaccinate. Pharmacists with BSc degree demonstrated less willingness (OR = 0.18 (0.07-0.46), and increased barriers (OR = 4.86 (1.56-15.17) to provide the vaccine when compared with Pharm D and postgraduate pharmacists P < .01. Factors including male gender (OR: 6.10), working in chain pharmacy (OR: 8.98) and rural areas (OR: 4.31), moderate income (OR: 19.34) and less years of experience (OR:0.85) were significantly associated with increased barriers to provide the vaccine (P < .05). Despite the high willingness of the community pharmacists to vaccinate, several barriers were present. Enhancing pharmacists' authorization and collaboration with other healthcare professionals and providing space for storage along with providing training courses and workshops should be considered to enhance pharmacist's engagement in vaccination service.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anan S. Jarab
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Walid Al-Qerem
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Zaytoonah University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Tareq L. Mukattash
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Turcu-Stiolica A, Kamusheva M, Bogdan M, Tadic I, Harasani K, Subtirelu MS, Meca AD, Šesto S, Odalović M, Arsić J, Stojkov S, Terzieva E, Petrova G. Pharmacist's Perspectives on Administering a COVID-19 Vaccine in Community Pharmacies in Four Balkan Countries. Front Public Health 2021; 9:766146. [PMID: 34900910 PMCID: PMC8655838 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.766146] [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: 08/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Community pharmacists expanded their roles and engaged in vaccination services in many countries around the world, but not in Balkan countries. This research aimed to assess the perceptions of pharmacists on involvement in the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) vaccine administration in four Balkan countries (Albania, Bulgaria, Romania, and Serbia). A cross-sectional survey was conducted using an online questionnaire that was distributed to community pharmacists across these countries between February and March 2021. A total of 636 community pharmacists were included in the analysis of the survey. The willingness to administer vaccines for COVID-19 (or other vaccines well established in the practice, like a flu vaccine) in community pharmacies is significantly different among the countries: the pharmacists from Albania were more willing to administer vaccines. The factors associated with the eagerness to vaccinate are almost the same among the countries: the lack of training in the faculty classes and the lack of a special place where to administer vaccines. Additional significant factors were found in Bulgaria (pharmacists from independent pharmacies wanted more than the pharmacists working in chain pharmacies to administer vaccines) and in Serbia (male pharmacists agreed more with administering vaccines than female pharmacists). Further national reforms are needed for adopting the expanding role of community pharmacists.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adina Turcu-Stiolica
- Department of Pharmacoeconomics, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, Craiova, Romania
| | - Maria Kamusheva
- Department of Organization and Economics of Pharmacy, Medical University-Sofia, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Maria Bogdan
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, Craiova, Romania
| | - Ivana Tadic
- Department of Social Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Legislation, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Klejda Harasani
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine of Tirana, Tirana, Albania
| | - Mihaela-Simona Subtirelu
- Department of Pharmacoeconomics, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, Craiova, Romania
| | - Andreea-Daniela Meca
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, Craiova, Romania
| | - Sofia Šesto
- Department of Social Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Legislation, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Marina Odalović
- Department of Social Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Legislation, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Jasmina Arsić
- Department of Social Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University Business Academy in Novi Sad, Municipio de Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - Svetlana Stojkov
- Department of Social Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University Business Academy in Novi Sad, Municipio de Novi Sad, Serbia.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Vocational Studies for the Education of Preschool Teachers and Sports Trainers in Subotica, Subotica, Serbia
| | - Emili Terzieva
- Department of Organization and Economics of Pharmacy, Medical University-Sofia, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Guenka Petrova
- Department of Organization and Economics of Pharmacy, Medical University-Sofia, Sofia, Bulgaria
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Costa S, Romão M, Mendes M, Horta MR, Rodrigues AT, Carneiro AV, Martins AP, Mallarini E, Naci H, Babar ZUD. Pharmacy interventions on COVID-19 in Europe: Mapping current practices and a scoping review. Res Social Adm Pharm 2021; 18:3338-3349. [PMID: 34924315 PMCID: PMC8670105 DOI: 10.1016/j.sapharm.2021.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Revised: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 12/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Background The COVID-19 pandemic has put community pharmacists at the frontline of prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery efforts. Pharmacies had to reorganize and implement several different interventions and measures within a very short time frame. Objectives 1) To map the current reported practice and trends and to review the literature on pharmacy-based interventions on COVID-19 provided in Europe; 2) To identify knowledge gaps and future avenues for pharmacy research, policy, and practice in response to public health emergencies. Methods We used a mixed methods approach combining country mapping of current practices of pharmacy interventions on COVID-19 reported by pharmacy associations in Europe with a scoping review of published literature. Results We mapped current practices on 31 pharmacy interventions on COVID-19 in 32 countries in Europe. Almost all preventive measures to reduce health risks have been provided in most countries. Other frequent interventions reflected preparedness for stockpiling, increased demand for services and products, and important patient care interventions exceeding dispensing role. Expanded powers granted to pharmacies and legislation passed in view of COVID-19 enabled services that improve access to medicines and relevant products, patient screening and referral including point-of-care antigen testing, support to vulnerable patients, and COVID-19 vaccination. We identified 9 studies conducted in pharmacies in 7 countries in Europe. Most studies are cross-sectional and/or descriptive. Pharmacy associations played an important supporting role by developing and updating guidance and emergency plans to assist community pharmacists. Conclusions A wide array of pharmacy interventions on COVID-19 was implemented in several countries within a very short time frame. Research on pharmacy interventions on COVID-19 is still in its infancy but confirmed the wide array of interventions provided and expanded powers granted to pharmacies. These findings may provide a significant impact to improve pharmacy research, policy, and practice in response to future public health emergencies in Europe and globally.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Suzete Costa
- Institute for Evidence-Based Health (ISBE), Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Lisboa, Edifício Reynaldo dos Santos, Piso 3, Av. Prof. Egas Moniz, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Mariana Romão
- Institute for Evidence-Based Health (ISBE), Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Lisboa, Edifício Reynaldo dos Santos, Piso 3, Av. Prof. Egas Moniz, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Centre for Health Evaluation & Research (CEFAR), Infosaúde, Associação Nacional das Farmácias (ANF), R. Marechal Saldanha, 1, 1249-069 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Maria Mendes
- Institute for Evidence-Based Health (ISBE), Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Lisboa, Edifício Reynaldo dos Santos, Piso 3, Av. Prof. Egas Moniz, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Centre for Medicines Information and Health Interventions (CEDIME), Infosaúde, Associação Nacional das Farmácias (ANF), R. Marechal Saldanha, 1, 1249-069 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Maria Rute Horta
- Institute for Evidence-Based Health (ISBE), Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Lisboa, Edifício Reynaldo dos Santos, Piso 3, Av. Prof. Egas Moniz, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Centre for Medicines Information and Health Interventions (CEDIME), Infosaúde, Associação Nacional das Farmácias (ANF), R. Marechal Saldanha, 1, 1249-069 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - António Teixeira Rodrigues
- Institute for Evidence-Based Health (ISBE), Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Lisboa, Edifício Reynaldo dos Santos, Piso 3, Av. Prof. Egas Moniz, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Centre for Health Evaluation & Research (CEFAR), Infosaúde, Associação Nacional das Farmácias (ANF), R. Marechal Saldanha, 1, 1249-069 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - António Vaz Carneiro
- Institute for Evidence-Based Health (ISBE), Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Lisboa, Edifício Reynaldo dos Santos, Piso 3, Av. Prof. Egas Moniz, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Institute for Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Egas Moniz, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Ana Paula Martins
- Institute for Evidence-Based Health (ISBE), Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Lisboa, Edifício Reynaldo dos Santos, Piso 3, Av. Prof. Egas Moniz, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Pharmacy, Pharmacology and Health Technologies, Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade de Lisboa, Avenida Professor Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Erika Mallarini
- SDA Bocconi School of Management, Via Sarfati, 10, 20136, Milano, Italy.
| | - Huseyin Naci
- Department of Health Policy, London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), Houghton Street, London WC2A 2AE, UK.
| | - Zaheer-Ud-Din Babar
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Huddersfield, Queensgate, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, HD1 3DH, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Expanded roles of community pharmacists in COVID-19: A scoping literature review. J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) 2021; 62:649-657. [PMID: 35120863 PMCID: PMC8704729 DOI: 10.1016/j.japh.2021.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2021] [Revised: 11/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Background Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has affected the world health care system adversely, but it has also brought out innovative roles for health care professionals to cater to growing health care needs. Community pharmacists provide community pharmacy services and can play a vital role in fighting the pandemic by taking on novel roles that complement their pre-existing roles. Objectives This study aimed to provide a scoping review of current and emerging literature about the novel roles adopted by community pharmacists during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods Online databases such as Google Scholar and PubMed were searched systematically using the keywords “COVID-19,” “pharmacist,” and “community.” Articles were selected based on availability of full text in English language, with time limit from December 1, 2019, to October 31, 2021; case reports, cross-sectional studies, literature reviews, qualitative studies, and systematic reviews were included, whereas commentary reviews and editorials were excluded from the search methodology. An independent review of the articles was conducted for inclusion based on relatability to study subject; those chosen were screened for references to find additional gray literature. Findings were arranged in themes, and the results were organized accordingly. Results Novel roles for community pharmacists were found in relation to maintenance of drug-supply chains, delivery of telepharmacy and telehealth services, provision of ambulatory pharmacy services, use of digital software to coordinate medication delivery for patients with chronic conditions, dispelling of misinformation, and roles in research and clinical trials. Roles in a post-COVID world regarding immunization of population and involvement in lifting lockdown strictures alongside other stakeholders were also explored. Conclusion Although COVID-19 has challenged the health care system, it has also provided an opportunity for development of novel and innovative roles that can ultimately have profound consequences for the health care system. Community pharmacists, despite facing multiple challenges in the community, should be facilitated to adapt with these new roles, which can be beneficial in achieving mass immunization and better health care in a post-COVID world.
Collapse
|
23
|
Stämpfli D, Martinez-De la Torre A, Simi E, Du Pasquier S, Berger J, Burden AM. Community Pharmacist-Administered COVID-19 Vaccinations: A Pilot Customer Survey on Satisfaction and Motivation to Get Vaccinated. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:vaccines9111320. [PMID: 34835251 PMCID: PMC8625008 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9111320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
In response to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, Swiss health authorities approved and ordered two mRNA vaccines in 2021. The canton of Zurich was the second in Switzerland to allow community pharmacists to administer the COVID-19 mRNA Vaccine Moderna to the adult population. We aimed to pilot a customer satisfaction questionnaire regarding COVID-19 vaccinations in Zurich pharmacies. Questions focused on satisfaction with different aspects of the service, motivation for getting the vaccination, and reasons for being vaccinated in a pharmacy. Zurich pharmacies administered 68,169 COVID-19 doses until June 2021, and 421 questionnaires were filled. Respondents' mean age was 43.5 (±13.2) years, with 42.3% reporting being women and 46.1% being men. Of the 372 complete questionnaires, 98.7% of the respondents would have recommended the service to others. High levels of satisfaction were reported concerning pre-vaccination discussion (98.9%), pharmacies' information level on COVID-19 vaccines (98.9%), general comfort with receiving the vaccination in a pharmacy (99.5%), injection technique (99.2%), and premises used (98.1%). Most respondents (57.3%) would have had the option of another vaccination provider, but the pharmacies were chosen for their opening hours, ease of access, and perceived trust. The availability of pharmacist-administered services may be an important contributor to a successful vaccination programme in Switzerland.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dominik Stämpfli
- Pharmacoepidemiology, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, ETH Zurich, CH-8093 Zurich, Switzerland; (A.M.-D.l.T.); (A.M.B.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Adrian Martinez-De la Torre
- Pharmacoepidemiology, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, ETH Zurich, CH-8093 Zurich, Switzerland; (A.M.-D.l.T.); (A.M.B.)
| | - Elodie Simi
- Community Pharmacy, Centre for Primary Care and Public Health (Unisanté), University of Lausanne, CH-1011 Lausanne, Switzerland; (E.S.); (S.D.P.); (J.B.)
- Center for Research and Innovation in Clinical Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lausanne University Hospital, University of Lausanne, CH-1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Geneva, CH-1206 Genève, Switzerland
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Western Switzerland, University of Lausanne, CH-1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Sophie Du Pasquier
- Community Pharmacy, Centre for Primary Care and Public Health (Unisanté), University of Lausanne, CH-1011 Lausanne, Switzerland; (E.S.); (S.D.P.); (J.B.)
| | - Jérôme Berger
- Community Pharmacy, Centre for Primary Care and Public Health (Unisanté), University of Lausanne, CH-1011 Lausanne, Switzerland; (E.S.); (S.D.P.); (J.B.)
- Center for Research and Innovation in Clinical Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lausanne University Hospital, University of Lausanne, CH-1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Geneva, CH-1206 Genève, Switzerland
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Western Switzerland, University of Lausanne, CH-1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Andrea M. Burden
- Pharmacoepidemiology, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, ETH Zurich, CH-8093 Zurich, Switzerland; (A.M.-D.l.T.); (A.M.B.)
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Ghibu S, Juncan AM, Rus LL, Frum A, Dobrea CM, Chiş AA, Gligor FG, Morgovan C. The Particularities of Pharmaceutical Care in Improving Public Health Service during the COVID-19 Pandemic. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:9776. [PMID: 34574698 PMCID: PMC8468206 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18189776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Nowadays, humanity is confronted with one of the most difficult challenges. Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) was identified for the first time in Hubei, China in December 2019 and produced the COVID-19 pandemic, a devastating disease that led to many complications and deaths. The authorities and the global healthcare system have been alerted regarding the prevention and treatment of this pathology. Even though worldwide quarantine was declared, health care professionals, including pharmacists, have been at the frontline in this war. Since the beginning of the pandemic, the authorities relied on the involvement of the community, hospital, or clinical pharmacists in offering support to the entire population. Also, the authorities implemented measures for emergency authorization of the vaccines, or the drugs used in COVID-19 treatment. In order to facilitate the population's access to healthcare services, the authorities have established regulations regarding, the extension of prescriptions by pharmacists, working hours, prevention of shortages and price-increase, drive-thru services, etc. However, several countries have taken financial measures to support the pharmacies' activity. At the same time, pharmaceutical associations elaborated guidelines for the protection of pharmacists and patients alike. Additionally, the pharmacies have come to support the health system and patients by adapting pharmaceutical care to the new needs like preparation and supply of disinfectants, patient care, information, and counseling, especially to COVID-19 patients, as well as the implementation of home drugs-delivery systems. The important roles played by pharmacists were to perform COVID-19 tests and further vaccines, as well as to combat the abundance of misinformation and fake news. The clinical and hospital pharmacy services have also been adapted. Strengthening the role of the pharmacist in the medical team was important for the purpose of providing correct and complete information regarding drugs used in the COVID-19 pathology. In all these activities, pharmacists needed creativity and professionalism, but also the support of pharmacy owners and managers. With this crisis, pharmaceutical care has entered a new phase, demonstrating the ability of pharmacists to be competent and accessible providers of public health. Based on this information, we conducted a narrative review whose purpose was to identify the impact of the authorities' decisions on pharmaceutical practice, the involvement of professional associations, and the responsibilities of the pharmacy owners and management. On the other hand, we performed a global assessment on the pharmaceutical care services provided by community pharmacists as well as by clinical or hospital pharmacists during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Steliana Ghibu
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology and Pathophysiology, Faculty of Pharmacy, “Iuliu Haţieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 6A Louis Pasteur Street, 400349 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
| | - Anca Maria Juncan
- Preclinical Department, Faculty of Medicine, “Lucian Blaga” University of Sibiu, 2A Lucian Blaga St., 550169 Sibiu, Romania; (A.M.J.); (L.L.R.); (A.F.); (C.M.D.); (F.G.G.); (C.M.)
| | - Luca Liviu Rus
- Preclinical Department, Faculty of Medicine, “Lucian Blaga” University of Sibiu, 2A Lucian Blaga St., 550169 Sibiu, Romania; (A.M.J.); (L.L.R.); (A.F.); (C.M.D.); (F.G.G.); (C.M.)
| | - Adina Frum
- Preclinical Department, Faculty of Medicine, “Lucian Blaga” University of Sibiu, 2A Lucian Blaga St., 550169 Sibiu, Romania; (A.M.J.); (L.L.R.); (A.F.); (C.M.D.); (F.G.G.); (C.M.)
| | - Carmen Maximiliana Dobrea
- Preclinical Department, Faculty of Medicine, “Lucian Blaga” University of Sibiu, 2A Lucian Blaga St., 550169 Sibiu, Romania; (A.M.J.); (L.L.R.); (A.F.); (C.M.D.); (F.G.G.); (C.M.)
| | - Adriana Aurelia Chiş
- Preclinical Department, Faculty of Medicine, “Lucian Blaga” University of Sibiu, 2A Lucian Blaga St., 550169 Sibiu, Romania; (A.M.J.); (L.L.R.); (A.F.); (C.M.D.); (F.G.G.); (C.M.)
| | - Felicia Gabriela Gligor
- Preclinical Department, Faculty of Medicine, “Lucian Blaga” University of Sibiu, 2A Lucian Blaga St., 550169 Sibiu, Romania; (A.M.J.); (L.L.R.); (A.F.); (C.M.D.); (F.G.G.); (C.M.)
| | - Claudiu Morgovan
- Preclinical Department, Faculty of Medicine, “Lucian Blaga” University of Sibiu, 2A Lucian Blaga St., 550169 Sibiu, Romania; (A.M.J.); (L.L.R.); (A.F.); (C.M.D.); (F.G.G.); (C.M.)
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Jacob SS, Bridgeman MB, Kim H, Toscani M, Kohler R, Shiau S, Jimenez HR, Barone JA, Narayanan N. Pharmacists' Perceptions and Drivers of Immunization Practices for COVID-19 Vaccines: Results of a Nationwide Survey Prior to COVID-19 Vaccine Emergency Use Authorization. PHARMACY 2021; 9:pharmacy9030131. [PMID: 34449708 PMCID: PMC8396166 DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy9030131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Revised: 07/17/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Pharmacists play a vital role in recommending and providing vaccines to improve public health and are on the front line of mass immunization efforts. Aim: The objective of this study is to evaluate pharmacists’ perceptions on COVID-19 vaccines prior to emergency use authorization (EUA) amid a global pandemic. Methods: A voluntary, anonymous, cross-sectional survey was conducted between September and November 2020. Survey respondents included a convenience sample of licensed pharmacists in the United States. The primary outcomes were pharmacists’ willingness to receive and recommend hypothetical COVID-19 vaccines. Covariates assessed in the survey included COVID-19 exposure or personal experience, primary pharmacy practice setting, background in training, geographic region, and prioritization of clinical data. The data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: This study surveyed 763 pharmacists and results from 632 participants were included in final analysis. Overall, 67.1% of the pharmacists were willing to receive a COVID-19 vaccine and 63.4% of the pharmacists were willing to recommend a COVID-19 vaccine at ≤1 year from the time of vaccine approval. At >1 year after vaccine approval, 78% of the pharmacists were willing to receive a COVID-19 vaccine and 81.2% of the pharmacists were willing to recommend a COVID-19 vaccine. Conclusions: Survey findings suggest that, while a majority of pharmacists surveyed indicate acceptance of hypothetical COVID-19 vaccines, there remains to be hesitancy among pharmacists to receive or recommend vaccination.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Susan Jacob
- Rutgers Pharmaceutical Fellowship Program, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA;
- Correspondence:
| | - Mary Barna Bridgeman
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Administration, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA; (M.B.B.); (H.K.); (H.R.J.); (J.A.B.); (N.N.)
| | - Hyoeun Kim
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Administration, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA; (M.B.B.); (H.K.); (H.R.J.); (J.A.B.); (N.N.)
| | - Michael Toscani
- Rutgers Pharmaceutical Fellowship Program, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA;
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Administration, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA; (M.B.B.); (H.K.); (H.R.J.); (J.A.B.); (N.N.)
| | - Racquel Kohler
- Cancer Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA;
| | - Stephanie Shiau
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA;
| | - Humberto R. Jimenez
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Administration, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA; (M.B.B.); (H.K.); (H.R.J.); (J.A.B.); (N.N.)
| | - Joseph A. Barone
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Administration, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA; (M.B.B.); (H.K.); (H.R.J.); (J.A.B.); (N.N.)
| | - Navaneeth Narayanan
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Administration, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA; (M.B.B.); (H.K.); (H.R.J.); (J.A.B.); (N.N.)
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Srirangan K, Lavenue A. Helping Québec Pharmacists Seize the Vaccination Service Opportunity: The Pharmacy Best Practice Workshops. PHARMACY 2021; 9:pharmacy9010051. [PMID: 33802564 PMCID: PMC8005967 DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy9010051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Revised: 02/16/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Vaccinations are a safe and effective way to protect against infectious diseases. The World Health Organization estimates vaccines have saved more lives than any other interventions and every year about two to three million deaths are averted worldwide through immunization. To improve vaccination coverage, pharmacists have been increasingly involved in immunization roles in their communities-as advocates, educators, and immunizers. Community pharmacy-based vaccination services have increased both in the number of immunization providers and the number of sites where patients can receive immunizations. In Canada, health care is under provincial legislation-and so, there are distinct differences in scope of pharmacist practice across the country. Prior to the COVID-19 outbreak in early 2020, in Québec, Canada's second-largest province, pharmacists did not have the authority to administer vaccines. To help prepare pharmacists in Québec to become immunizers, we developed and deployed a series of accredited workshops. In these facilitated workshops, pharmacists were able to share best practices that may lead to providing effective vaccination services, identify common competency gaps, discuss effective patient communication skills, and determine how to target the most vulnerable population groups. Participants were also asked to evaluate the workshop. Our results indicate the evaluation was very reliable in measuring participant satisfaction (Cronbach's α = 0.94) and pharmacists commented that the workshops' learning outcomes exceeded their expectations, and the topics covered were relevant and applicable. The evaluation also asked participants to identify weaknesses of training, so future educational interventions can be planned accordingly. We believe this work will contribute to the continual growth and advancement of the pharmacy profession in Canada.
Collapse
|