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Greene HC, Makovi K, Abdul-Mumin R, Bansal A, Frimpong JA. Challenges in the distribution of antimicrobial medications in community dispensaries in Accra, Ghana. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0281699. [PMID: 38809832 PMCID: PMC11135707 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0281699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The dispensation of medicines in some low- and middle-income countries is often carried out by private vendors operating under constrained conditions. The aim of this study was to understand the challenges reported by employees of dispensaries, specifically, chemical and herbal shops and pharmacies in Accra, Ghana. Our objectives were twofold: (1) to assess challenges faced by medicine vendors related to dispensing antimicrobials (antibiotic and antimalarial medications), and (2) to identify opportunities for improving their stewardship of antimicrobials. METHODS Data were collected in 79 dispensaries throughout Accra, in 2021, using a survey questionnaire. We used open-ended questions, grounded on an adapted socioecological model of public health, to analyze these data and determine challenges faced by respondents. RESULTS We identified multiple, interlocking challenges faced by medicine vendors. Many of these relate to challenges of antimicrobial stewardship (following evidence-based practices when dispensing medicines). Overall, medicine vendors frequently reported challenges at the Customer and Community levels. These included strained interactions with customers and the prohibitive costs of medications. The consequences of these challenges reverberated and manifested through all levels of the socioecological model of public health (Entity, Customer, Community, Global). DISCUSSION The safe and effective distribution of medications was truncated by strained interactions, often related to the cost of medicines and gaps in knowledge. While addressing these challenges requires multifaceted approaches, we identified several areas that, if intervened upon, could unlock the great potential of antimicrobal stewardship. The effective and efficient implementation of key interventions could facilitate efforts spearheaded by medicine vendors and leverage the benefits of their role as health educators and service providers. CONCLUSION Addressing barriers faced by medicine vendors would provide an opportunity to significantly improve the provision of medications, and ultimately population health. Such efforts will likely expand access to populations who may otherwise be unable to access medications and treatment in formal institutions of care such as hospitals. Our findings also highlight the broad range of care provided by shopkeepers and vendors at dispensaries. These findings suggest that the meaningful engagement of dispensaries as valued conduits of community health is a promising pathway for interventions aiming to improve antimicrobial stewardship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Camille Greene
- Social Science Division, New York University Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Kinga Makovi
- Social Science Division, New York University Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rafiatu Abdul-Mumin
- Department of Biochemistry and Forensic Sciences, School of Chemical and Biochemical Sciences, C.K Tedam University of Technology & Applied Sciences, Navrongo, Ghana
| | - Akhil Bansal
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Jemima A. Frimpong
- Social Science Division, New York University Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
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Wittenauer R, Shah PD, Bacci JL, Stergachis A. Locations and characteristics of pharmacy deserts in the United States: a geospatial study. HEALTH AFFAIRS SCHOLAR 2024; 2:qxae035. [PMID: 38756173 PMCID: PMC11034534 DOI: 10.1093/haschl/qxae035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Pharmacies are important health care access points, but no national map currently exists of where pharmacy deserts are located. This cross-sectional study used pharmacy address data and Census Bureau surveys to define pharmacy deserts at the census tract level in all 50 US states and the District of Columbia. We also compared sociodemographic characteristics of pharmacy desert vs non-pharmacy desert communities. Nationally, 15.8 million (4.7%) of all people in the United States live in pharmacy deserts, spanning urban and rural settings in all 50 states. On average, communities that are pharmacy deserts have a higher proportion of people who have a high school education or less, have no health insurance, have low self-reported English ability, have an ambulatory disability, and identify as a racial or ethnic minority. While, on average, pharmacies are the most accessible health care setting in the United States, many people still do not have access to them. Further, the people living in pharmacy deserts are often marginalized groups who have historically faced structural barriers to health care. This study demonstrates a need to improve access to pharmacies and pharmacy services to advance health equity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Wittenauer
- CHOICE Institute, School of Pharmacy, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, United States
| | - Parth D Shah
- Hutchinson Institute for Cancer Outcomes Research (HICOR), Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, Seattle, WA 98109, United States
| | - Jennifer L Bacci
- CHOICE Institute, School of Pharmacy, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, United States
| | - Andy Stergachis
- CHOICE Institute, School of Pharmacy, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, United States
- Department of Global Health, School of Public Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98105, United States
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Waite NM, Houle SKD, Toppari K, Pereira JA. Willingness of Canadian community pharmacists to adopt a proactive life-course approach to vaccination services. J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) 2024:102073. [PMID: 38513979 DOI: 10.1016/j.japh.2024.102073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 03/17/2024] [Accepted: 03/17/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Most Canadian jurisdictions authorize pharmacists to administer vaccines, with differences in vaccine and patient age eligibility. Vaccination rates could be further optimized if pharmacists took a more proactive role in life-course vaccine screening and administration. Health professional vaccine fatigue following the COVID-19 pandemic may negatively impact service delivery. OBJECTIVES To assess vaccine fatigue among Canadian pharmacists, understand their willingness to provide proactive life-course vaccination services and identify associated vaccine practice facilitators. METHODS One-on-one interviews were conducted with pharmacists recruited through a national community pharmacist Facebook group. Purposive sampling was used to select a diverse sample considering gender, province, and years of practice. Online interviews were conducted using a semi-structured guide with questions about vaccination experiences, perceptions of assuming a more proactive vaccinator role for adults and children, and current level of fatigue related to offering vaccination services. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and coded independently by 2 researchers; content analysis was used to identify themes. RESULTS In spring 2023, interviews were conducted with 24 pharmacists from 5 Canadian provinces. Participants were receptive to a more proactive vaccinator role, feeling that vaccine fatigue had lessened, but strongly advocated for system and practice modifications to facilitate successful implementation. They emphasized the need for patient vaccination history access, the ability to administer all publicly funded vaccines, and fair compensation. Participants requested the development of electronic tools that connected to pharmacy systems that helped them navigate complex vaccine guidelines and clinical decision making, and the required documentation/billing. They also spoke of logistical concerns related to the incorporation of vaccination into their workflow and adequate staffing. Most participants were willing to vaccinate younger children if legislated age limits were lowered, provided they were trained and compensated appropriately. CONCLUSION Pharmacists are interested in furthering their vaccination services offerings, including proactive screening and vaccination of young children.
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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.
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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
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Al Meslamani AZ, Jarab AS. The economic impact of pharmacist intervention during pandemics. Expert Rev Pharmacoecon Outcomes Res 2024; 24:323-326. [PMID: 37993404 DOI: 10.1080/14737167.2023.2287487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad Z Al Meslamani
- College of Pharmacy, Al Ain University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- AAU Health and Biomedical Research Center, Al Ain University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Anan S Jarab
- College of Pharmacy, Al Ain University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- AAU Health and Biomedical Research Center, Al Ain University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
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Polidori P, Makridaki D, Kohl S. Clinical trials. Eur J Hosp Pharm 2024; 31:162-164. [PMID: 36931719 PMCID: PMC10895182 DOI: 10.1136/ejhpharm-2022-003471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Piera Polidori
- Hospital Pharmacy Complex Operational Unit, Azienda Ospedaliera Ospedali Riuniti Villa Sofia Cervello, Palermo, Italy
| | - Despina Makridaki
- Pharmacy Services, "Sismanoglio- Amalia Fleming", General Hospital of Attica, Athens, Greece
| | - Stephanie Kohl
- Policy & Advocacy, European Association of Hospital Pharmacists, Brussels, Belgium
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Lu X, Zhang W, Jia X, Bao X, Zhang X, Kang J, Du S, Yin Z. Exploring the problems and coping strategies of pharmacy internship in large general hospitals in China: from the perspective of preceptors. BMC MEDICAL EDUCATION 2024; 24:69. [PMID: 38233919 PMCID: PMC10795210 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-024-05032-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The role of the Hospital Pharmacy Preceptor (HPP) is pivotal in upholding the excellence of experiential training and fostering the professional growth of pharmacy interns. However, there is a lack of studies that provide an overview of pharmacy internships from the perspective of HPP. This study explores the experience and expectations of HPPs regarding existing problems and possible coping strategies in intern teaching. METHODS This is a qualitative study that was conducted through individual interviews and focus group discussions. HPPs were invited as participants from large-scale tertiary hospitals in representative provinces of mainland China. Interview and focus group discussion data were analyzed using thematic analysis to see emerging themes from the data. Nvivo 12 was utilized for data management and processing. RESULTS Eight individual interviews and two focus group discussions were conducted, involving 14 HPPs as participants. Upon the examination of the interviews and focus group data, four themes were summarized regarding HPPs' perceptions: 1) current presenting problems; 2) possible coping strategies; 3) something HPPs should do; 4) something interns should do. CONCLUSION This study found that from the HPPs' perspective, the hospital-based pharmacy internship still has some problems from policy to practice, which need to be addressed by the joint efforts of the state, schools, internship bases, pharmacy preceptors, and students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojing Lu
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
- Henan Drug Clinical Comprehensive Evaluation Center, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Wan Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Xuedong Jia
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Xiaoyue Bao
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Xiaojian Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
- Henan Drug Clinical Comprehensive Evaluation Center, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Jian Kang
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
- Henan Drug Clinical Comprehensive Evaluation Center, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Shuzhang Du
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China.
| | - Zhao Yin
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China.
- Institute for Hospital Management of Henan Province, Zhengzhou, 450052, China.
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Sarasmita MA, Sudarma IW, Jaya MKA, Irham LM, Susanty S. Telepharmacy Implementation to Support Pharmaceutical Care Services during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Scoping Review. Can J Hosp Pharm 2024; 77:e3430. [PMID: 38204502 PMCID: PMC10754407 DOI: 10.4212/cjhp.3430] [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: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Background Telepharmacy was effectively applied for remote pharmaceutical care during the COVID-19 pandemic. Objectives To determine the implementation of telepharmacy services to support pharmacists in providing pharmaceutical care during the pandemic. Data Sources Seven electronic databases were searched from inception to June 2021: PubMed, Ovid MEDLINE, Excerpta Medica database (Embase), Web of Science, Proquest, Scopus, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. Study Selection and Data Extraction The review followed PRISMA guidelines and was registered with the PROSPERO registry of systematic reviews. Reports of original research investigating the implementation of telepharmacy during the COVID-19 pandemic were retrieved. Researchers screened the title and abstract of each article, and then evaluated the full text of eligible articles to identify studies that met the inclusion criteria. Pharmacists' responsibilities and actions were classified in relation to the International Pharmaceutical Federation guideline for managing the COVID-19 pandemic. Extracted data included study characteristics, pharmacists' interventions delivered through a telepharmacy system, and the benefits of telepharmacy implementation. Data Synthesis The database search yielded 1400 articles. After removal of duplicates and articles not meeting the specific inclusion criteria (n = 1381), a total of 19 relevant original research articles were reviewed. According to these studies, telepharmacy was used to perform remote medication review and optimization, assess medication adherence, dispense and deliver medications, educate and counsel patients, promote disease prevention, collaborate with health care providers, and monitor treatment outcomes. Conclusions This study highlighted the use of telepharmacy services to support pharmacists' activities during the COVID-19 pandemic. Randomized clinical trials are needed to investigate the long-term efficacy and cost-effectiveness of telepharmacy services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Made Ary Sarasmita
- , MClinPharm, is with the Pharmacy Study Program, Faculty of Mathematics and Science, Udayana University, Badung City, Bali Province, Indonesia, and the Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - I Wayan Sudarma
- , MD, is with the Division of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery, Department of Surgery, Sanglah General Hospital, Bali, Indonesia
| | - Made Krisna Adi Jaya
- , MClinPharm, is with the Pharmacy Study Program, Faculty of Mathematics and Science, Udayana University, Badung City, Bali Province, Indonesia
| | - Lalu Muhammad Irham
- , PhD, is with the Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ahmad Dahlan, Yogyakarta, Indonesia, and the Research Center for Computing, Research Organization for Electronics and Informatics, National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), Republic of Indonesia, Cibinong Science Center, Cibinong, Indonesia
| | - Sri Susanty
- is with the Nursing Study Program, Faculty of Medicine, Halu Oleo University, Kendari, Southeast Sulawesi, Indonesia
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Brazeau GA, Robinson ET, Reardon G, Zgarrick DP. Pharmacists must take an active role as citizen scientists. J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) 2024; 64:30-33. [PMID: 37844732 DOI: 10.1016/j.japh.2023.10.009] [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: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 10/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
Science is a process by which society advances knowledge of the physical and natural world through observation, experimentation, and testing of theories based on evidence. This process forms the foundation of the biomedical, clinical, and social sciences, which together provide an ever-changing knowledge base for health care professionals, like pharmacists, to use to provide evidence-based care to patients and communities. Yet, despite the essential and integrated application of science to improve health-related knowledge and care delivery, the utility and viability of science itself are under threat. Science as a broad discipline continues to be subject to politicization, misinformation, and persisting inequities among its beneficiaries. Science remains the subject of disparate perspectives regarding its societal benefits and expected roles. Pharmacists, given their education, training, and earned trust, can help to address these challenges by engagement as citizen scientists. Citizen scientists, through involvement with related initiatives, promote and advance all aspects of the public good, which are essential to the continued smooth functioning of our society. Pharmacists are well positioned to be engaged in various citizen scientist roles available in their communities that promote the public good economically, politically, and culturally. Involvement in citizen science activities is not without personal cost. This can be challenging, depending upon the level of involvement. It might take time away from other desired activities and generate perceived deficits of self-efficacy. Yet pharmacists who engage in the process of scientific discovery at any level as citizen scientists can experience personal and professional benefits, engage with other members of their communities, and provide an opportunity to serve as role models to others considering a career in pharmacy.
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Mwita S, Mgaya E, Haule A. Awareness of the rational use of medicines and the medication counseling practice in community pharmacies in Nyamagana district, Mwanza: A cross-sectional study. THE JOURNAL OF MEDICINE ACCESS 2024; 8:27550834241261852. [PMID: 38887665 PMCID: PMC11181881 DOI: 10.1177/27550834241261852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
Background Community pharmacies play a vital role in promoting the rational use of medicines by providing medication counseling to their clients to ensure the safe and appropriate use of medicines. Thus, this study aimed to assess awareness of the rational use of medicines and the medication counseling practice in community pharmacies. Methods A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from June to July 2021. The study was carried out in community pharmacies in Nyamagana district, Mwanza, Tanzania. Data were collected using a self-administered, semi-structured questionnaire. The data for descriptive statistics were entered in Microsoft Excel and analyzed using STATA version 15. Results A total of 68 pharmaceutical personnel participated in this study. Thirty-eight participants, that is, 55.9%, were aware of the rational use of medicines. The awareness was significantly influenced by the participant's age and profession. The majority of the dispensers practiced rational use of medicines by telling their clients the dose of the medicine (n = 63, 92.6%), frequency of administration (n = 61, 89.7%), and route of administration (n = 60, 88.2%). However, only 21 (30.9%) told clients about the need to comply with their medications. The information that was not regularly provided by dispensers to clients was the side effects of medicines (n = 6, 8.8%). Less than a quarter of participants frequently told their clients information regarding why the medicine is prescribed, drug interactions, storage conditions, and contraindications. Conclusion This study has shown that almost half of the participants were aware of the rational use of medicines. There was a low frequency at which information was given regarding medication compliance, side effects, storage conditions, drug interactions, and contraindications. These findings underscore the need for targeted interventions to enhance pharmaceutical personnel's understanding of rational use of medicine principles and improve their practice of patient medication counseling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stanley Mwita
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmacy Practice, Catholic University of Health and Allied Sciences, Mwanza, Tanzania
| | - Ezra Mgaya
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmacy Practice, Catholic University of Health and Allied Sciences, Mwanza, Tanzania
| | - Ambrose Haule
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, Catholic University of Health and Allied Sciences, Mwanza, Tanzania
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Alghamdi KS, Petzold M, Alsugoor MH, Makeen HA, Al Monif KH, Hussain-Alkhateeb L. Community pharmacists' perspectives towards automated pharmacy systems and extended community pharmacy services: An online cross-sectional study. EXPLORATORY RESEARCH IN CLINICAL AND SOCIAL PHARMACY 2023; 12:100363. [PMID: 38023630 PMCID: PMC10679933 DOI: 10.1016/j.rcsop.2023.100363] [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: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 11/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Private sector partnerships through community pharmacies are essential for effective healthcare integration to achieve the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals. This partnership can provide significant clinical outcomes and reduce health system expenditures by delivering services focused on patient-centred care, such as public health screening and medication therapy management. Objectives To assess the understanding of the proposed strategic and health system reform in Saudi Arabia by exploring community pharmacists' perspectives towards the capacity and readiness of community pharmacies to use automated pharmacy systems, provide extended community pharmacy services, and identify perceived barriers. Materials and methods This multicentre, cross-sectional, web-based survey was conducted in Saudi Arabia (October-December 2021). Graphical and numerical statistics were used to describe key dimensions by the background and characteristics of the respondents, and multiple ordinal logistic regression analyses were sought to assess their associations. Results Of the 403 consenting and participating community pharmacists, most were male (94%), belonged to chain pharmacies (77%), and worked >48 h per week (72%). Automated pharmacy systems, such as electronic prescriptions, were never utilised (50%), and health screening services, such as blood glucose (76%) and blood pressure measurement (74%), were never provided. Services for medication therapy management were somewhat limited. Age groups ≤40 years, chain pharmacies, >10 years of experience and ≥ 3 pharmacists in place with <100 daily medication prescriptions and Jazan province were significantly more likely to provide all medication therapy management services than others. Operational factors were the barriers most significantly associated with the independent variables. Conclusion The results showed that most services and automated pharmacy systems remained limited and well-needed. When attempting to implement these services to drive change, community pharmacies face numerous challenges, and urgent efforts by private and government sectors are essential to improve pharmaceutical care in community pharmacy settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khalid S. Alghamdi
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg University, Sweden
- Faculty of Clinical Pharmacy, Al Baha University, Al Baha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Max Petzold
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg University, Sweden
| | - Mahdi H. Alsugoor
- Department of Emergency Medical Services, Faculty of Health Sciences, Al-Qunfudah, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hafiz A. Makeen
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Kudaisi H. Al Monif
- Medical Supply Department, Najran Health Affairs, Ministry of Health, Najran, Saudi Arabia
| | - Laith Hussain-Alkhateeb
- School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg University, Sweden
- Population Health Research Section, King Abdullah International Medical Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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Alotaibi MM, Aldandan EM, Alfredan BE, Almohammed SH, Almousa ZH. Pharmacists' perceptions about providing COVID-19 vaccines in community settings. EXPLORATORY RESEARCH IN CLINICAL AND SOCIAL PHARMACY 2023; 12:100326. [PMID: 37743853 PMCID: PMC10511797 DOI: 10.1016/j.rcsop.2023.100326] [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: 02/12/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Community pharmacists were underutilized in Saudi Arabia. At the start of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak, global healthcare systems experienced significant pressure. To combat the pandemic effectively, there was a need to involve other healthcare providers, such as community pharmacists. As a result, community pharmacists were enlisted to provide vaccines. Objectives This study aims to explore community pharmacists' perceptions about providing COVID-19 vaccines in Saudi community settings. Methods Ethical approval was granted by the Research Ethics Committee of King Faisal University in January 2022. A qualitative methodology was used to explore the opinions of community pharmacists. Semi-structured interviews were conducted via face-to-face qualitative interviewing. Participants were recruited purposively and represented different types of community pharmacy settings. Results A total of 15 face-to-face individual interviews were conducted. The cohort included pharmacists who provided the service (n = 5) and those who did not (n = 10). The results showed that providing the service in a community setting was advantageous to patients, community pharmacy sector, and healthcare system. Moreover, the participants identified several barriers to providing the service. Conclusion Although providing the service had several advantages to several parties, the identified barriers need to be considered for the service to be provided appropriately.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mansour M. Alotaibi
- Pharmacy Practice Department, College of Clinical Pharmacy, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia
| | - Eman M. Aldandan
- Pharm-D intern, College of Clinical Pharmacy, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia
| | - Bashayer E. Alfredan
- Pharm-D intern, College of Clinical Pharmacy, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia
| | - Samar H. Almohammed
- Pharm-D intern, College of Clinical Pharmacy, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia
| | - Zahra H. Almousa
- Pharm-D intern, College of Clinical Pharmacy, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia
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Mulherin K, Brandt J, Hu A, Ravinatarajan P. Resources and interventions to support psychological health and wellbeing in the pharmacy workforce: Analysis and use of a health worker 'burnout' toolkit. EXPLORATORY RESEARCH IN CLINICAL AND SOCIAL PHARMACY 2023; 12:100359. [PMID: 37965247 PMCID: PMC10641757 DOI: 10.1016/j.rcsop.2023.100359] [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: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Pharmacists have experienced declines in psychological health and wellbeing post-pandemic. The phenomena of moral distress, disengagement and burnout are associated with workforce attrition, unfitness to practice and inferior quality of patient care. A working group of the Canadian Pharmacists Association (CPhA) was formed to identify resources and interventions (R&I) for occupational psychological health and wellbeing. Objective To characterize R&I from an evidence-based national health worker 'burnout' Toolkit with potential to support the pharmacy workforce. Methods All R&I included within a draft 'burnout' Toolkit from the Canadian Health Workforce Network (CHWN) were screened to determine relevancy and usefulness for the pharmacy workforce. R&I with higher grades were data-charted to capture information on topic and content delivery. Final R&I were determined through consensus meetings where 'highly rated' R&I were discussed and selected. Results Of 140 original CHWN Toolkit R&I, 53 (37.8%) were of potential relevance or usefulness to improve well-being for most in the pharmacy workforce. Of those 53 R&I, 28 (20% of original) were final selections. The majority of R&I at each stage were focused on 'preventing burnout' and 'promoting mental health' (>60%) rather than 'addressing burnout', 'supporting recovery' or managing specific issues in the workplace (i.e. stigma, discrimination, bullying, hostility, workload). No R&I were specifically developed or studied within the pharmacy workforce. Conclusions Health professions may benefit from the CHWN Toolkit and the knowledge translation activity described here. R&I relevant and useful to the pharmacy workforce generally require adaptation for dissemination and/or implementation. The set of final R&I form the basis for orchestrated plans to support the pharmacy workforce with respect to psychological health and wellbeing. There is a relative lack of R&I devoted to addressing and recovering from burnout and workload management issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrina Mulherin
- Canadian Pharmacists Association - Workforce Wellness Task-Force, 851 Industrial Avenue, Mailbox M035, Ottawa, ON K1G 4L3, Canada
- Windpharm Consulting, Fredericton, NB, Canada
| | - Jaden Brandt
- Canadian Pharmacists Association - Workforce Wellness Task-Force, 851 Industrial Avenue, Mailbox M035, Ottawa, ON K1G 4L3, Canada
- College of Pharmacy, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Amy Hu
- Canadian Pharmacists Association - Workforce Wellness Task-Force, 851 Industrial Avenue, Mailbox M035, Ottawa, ON K1G 4L3, Canada
- Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Pavithra Ravinatarajan
- Canadian Pharmacists Association - Workforce Wellness Task-Force, 851 Industrial Avenue, Mailbox M035, Ottawa, ON K1G 4L3, Canada
- School of Pharmacy, University of Waterloo, Kitchener, ON, Canada
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Hashimoto H, Hiyoshi Y, Kabuki T, Sasaki H, Toda M. Prognostic value of ECG monitor findings in COVID-19. Open Heart 2023; 10:e002404. [PMID: 37963684 PMCID: PMC10649884 DOI: 10.1136/openhrt-2023-002404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS COVID-19 can cause severe illness and multiorgan dysfunction. Acute myocardial damage has been detected in a significant portion of patients with COVID-19; therefore, several studies have reported that electrocardiographic findings could be used to evaluate the severalty of COVID-19. However, performing standard ECG for each patient hospitalised with COVID-19 can increase the level of exposure to COVID-19 among medical staff. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the prognostic value of continuous electrocardiographic monitor findings in patients with COVID-19. METHODS Among 1612 consecutive patients with COVID-19 who were admitted to our hospital between August 2021 and May 2022, we identified 96 (76±4 years) patients who underwent electrocardiographic monitor during hospitalisation. All electrocardiographic monitors were analysed by two independent cardiologists blinded to the clinical data of the patients. The endpoint was defined as the occurrence of all-cause mortality related to COVID-19. The event data were retrospectively gathered from the patients' medical records. A multivariate Cox model was used to assess whether these electrocardiographic monitor findings and clinical data were associated with in-hospital mortality. RESULTS During a mean hospitalisation period of 22.8±3.2 days, in-hospital mortality occurred in 17 (18%) patients. Atrial fibrillation (HR: 3.95, 95% CI: 1.39 to 11.21) and lung disease complications (HR: 2.91, 95% CI: 1.06 to 7.98) were significant prognostic factors for death in multivariate analysis. Compared with the non-complicated lung disease and non-atrial fibrillation group, the risk of mortality was significantly higher in the lung disease complication and atrial fibrillation group in the multivariate Cox proportional model (HR: 8.37, 95% CI: 1.69 to 41.30, p=0.009). CONCLUSIONS The simple method of ECG monitor could adequately detect atrial fibrillation. This study demonstrated that atrial fibrillation complicated with lung disease, could have potential prognostic value among patients with COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hidenobu Hashimoto
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Tokyo Metropolitan Ebara Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Toho University Faculty of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yasunaga Hiyoshi
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Tokyo Metropolitan Ebara Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takayuki Kabuki
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Tokyo Metropolitan Ebara Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Toho University Faculty of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hideto Sasaki
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Tokyo Metropolitan Ebara Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Toho University Faculty of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mikihito Toda
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Tokyo Metropolitan Ebara Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Toho University Faculty of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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15
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Schumacher L, Dhif Y, Bonnabry P, Widmer N. Managing the COVID-19 health crisis: a survey of Swiss hospital pharmacies. BMC Health Serv Res 2023; 23:1134. [PMID: 37864155 PMCID: PMC10589985 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-023-10105-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic strained healthcare systems immensely as of 2020. Switzerland's hospital pharmacies' responses during the first wave were surveyed with a view to improving the quality of pharmaceutical management in future health crises. METHODS An online survey was sent to the heads of all of Switzerland's hospital pharmacies. The questionnaire was organised into eleven sections of questions covering many topics regarding the management of COVID-19's first wave. Data collection occurred from May to June 2020. RESULTS Analyses were performed using the 43 questionnaires (66%), with at least one answer per questionnaire, out of 65 distributed. Seventeen of 41 pharmacies responding (41%) had existing standard operating procedures or pandemic plans and 95% of these (39/41) set up crisis management steering committees. Twenty-nine of 43 pharmacies responding (67%) created new activities to respond to the pandemic's specific needs. Twenty-six of 39 pharmacies responding (67%) created new drug lists for: COVID-19-specific treatments (85%; 22/26), sedatives (81%; 21/26), anaesthetics (77%; 20/26) and antibiotics (73%; 19/26). Drug availability in designated COVID-19 wards was managed by increasing existing stocks (54%; 22/41 pharmacies) and creating extra storage space (51%; 21/41). Two drugs generated the greatest concern about shortages: propofol (49%; 19/39 pharmacies) and midazolam (44%; 17/39). Remdesivir stocks ran out in 26% of pharmacies (10/39). Twelve of 43 pharmacies (28%) drafted specific new documents to respond to medical needs regarding drug administration, 12 (28%) did so for drug preparation and 10 (23%) did so for treatment choices. CONCLUSIONS Switzerland's hospital pharmacies encountered many challenges related to the COVID-19 crisis and had to find solutions quickly, effectively and safely. The survey highlighted the key role that hospital pharmacies played in many aspects of the pandemic by providing logistical and clinical support to medical and nursing care teams. The lessons and experiences outlined could be used to improve the quality of hospital pharmacies' readiness for similar future events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurence Schumacher
- Specialised Centre for Emergency and Disaster Pharmacy, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Western Switzerland, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Pharmacy, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Yassine Dhif
- Pharmacy, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Pascal Bonnabry
- Specialised Centre for Emergency and Disaster Pharmacy, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Western Switzerland, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Pharmacy, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Nicolas Widmer
- Specialised Centre for Emergency and Disaster Pharmacy, Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Western Switzerland, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland.
- Pharmacy of the Eastern Vaud Hospitals, Rennaz, Switzerland.
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Liddelow C, Mullan BA, Breare H, Sim TF, Haywood D. A call for action: Educating pharmacists and pharmacy students in behaviour change techniques. EXPLORATORY RESEARCH IN CLINICAL AND SOCIAL PHARMACY 2023; 11:100287. [PMID: 37397030 PMCID: PMC10314283 DOI: 10.1016/j.rcsop.2023.100287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The increasing impact of chronic disease, including cancer and heart disease on mortality signifies a need for the upskilling of health professionals in health behaviour change. Solely providing education and information to patients is generally not sufficient to change behaviour, and for any change to be sustained. The nature of pharmaceutical practice allows pharmacists to have frequent contact with patients in the community. Historically, pharmacists have often effectively engaged with patients to assist with behaviour change initiatives related to smoking cessation, weight loss or medication adherence. Unfortunately, such initiatives do not work for everyone, and more tailored and varied interventions are urgently needed to reduce the effects of chronic disease. In addition, with greater inaccessibility to hospitals and GP's (e.g., appointment wait times), it is imperative that pharmacists are upskilled in providing opportunistic health behaviour change techniques and interventions. Pharmacists need to practice to their full scope consistently and confidently, including the use of behavioural interventions. The following commentary therefore describes and provides recommendations for the upskilling of pharmacists and pharmacy students in opportunistic behaviour change. We outline nine key evidence-based behaviour change techniques, the active-ingredients of a behaviour change intervention, that are relevant to common encounters in professional practice by pharmacists, such as improving adherence to medications/treatments and health promotion initiatives. These include social support (practical and emotional), problem solving, anticipated regret, habit formation, behaviour substitution, restructuring the environment, information about others' approval, pros and cons, and monitoring and providing feedback on behaviour. Recommendations are then provided for how this upskilling can be taught to pharmacists and pharmacy students, as well as how they can use these techniques in their everyday practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin Liddelow
- School of Psychology, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, 2500, Australia
| | - Barbara A. Mullan
- enAble Institute, Curtin University, Bentley, Western Australia, 6102, Australia
- Western Australian Cancer Prevention Research Unit, Curtin University, Bentley, Western Australia, 6102, Australia
- School of Population Health, Curtin University, Bentley, Western Australia, 6102, Australia
| | - Hayley Breare
- enAble Institute, Curtin University, Bentley, Western Australia, 6102, Australia
- School of Population Health, Curtin University, Bentley, Western Australia, 6102, Australia
| | - Tin Fei Sim
- School of Pharmacy, Curtin Medical School, Curtin University, Bentley, Western Australia 6102, Australia
| | - Darren Haywood
- St. Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Mental Health, Fitzroy, Victoria 3065, Australia
- Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health and School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
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17
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Juperi RNAA, Goh HP, Rehman IU, Lee KS, Ming LC, Hermansyah A. Evaluating healthcare professionals' perceptions of dispensing separation and sale of pharmacy medicine in Brunei Darussalam. J Pharm Policy Pract 2023; 16:101. [PMID: 37620839 PMCID: PMC10463969 DOI: 10.1186/s40545-023-00594-5] [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: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pharmacy medicine (P) is obtained exclusively from a pharmacy under the supervision of a pharmacist. This study aims to understand the perception of healthcare professionals towards the dispensing separation, as well as the dispensing of pharmacy medicine by community pharmacies to enhance patient health outcomes in Brunei Darussalam. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted between 1st March 2023 and 20th April 2023 among healthcare professionals. A newly designed and validated questionnaire was used. Its face and content validity, along with internal consistency, was adequately established. Convenient sampling was employed to recruit participants for the study. Statistical analysis using one-way ANOVA was performed, considering a p-value < 0.05 as statistically significant. RESULTS The study compiled data from 108 participants, comprising doctors (38.9%) and pharmacy technicians (45.4%). Approximately 28.7% of respondents had 11-20 years of healthcare experience, while 25.9% had less than 5 years. Nearly all respondents (98.1%) agreed on the vital role pharmacists and pharmacy technicians play in prescription checks. A significant number of participants (93.5%) agreed that Brunei's current medicine dispensing system needs improvement. The mean total score for the perception of medicine dispensing in Brunei was 3.79 ± 1.103. A statistically significant difference was found between the perception score and the respondents' profession (p = 0.018), but not with their age, experience, or place of work. Respondents' awareness score showed no statistically significant correlation with their profession, age, experience, or place of work. CONCLUSION The study underscores the necessity for more patient-centered care in community pharmacies in Brunei Darussalam. The country's healthcare professionals should recognize the potential advantages of expanding pharmacy services. However, to implement these services successfully, regulatory restrictions and infrastructure limitations must be addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hui Poh Goh
- PAP Rashidah Sa'adatul Bolkiah Institute of Health Sciences, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Gadong, BE1410, Brunei.
| | - Inayat Ur Rehman
- Department of Pharmacy, Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, Mardan, 23200, Pakistan
| | - Kah Seng Lee
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Cyberjaya, Cyberjaya, Malaysia
| | - Long Chiau Ming
- PAP Rashidah Sa'adatul Bolkiah Institute of Health Sciences, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Gadong, BE1410, Brunei
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, 60115, Indonesia
- School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, Bandar Sunway, 47500, Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Andi Hermansyah
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, 60115, Indonesia.
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Mohammadkhah F, Chaboksavar F, Alhani F, Mahmoudian A, Ziapour A, Sigaroud AE, Alipour ZJ. Lived sexual experience of health workers on the Iranian frontline of the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic: A qualitative content analysis. Heliyon 2023; 9:e18584. [PMID: 37560638 PMCID: PMC10407152 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e18584] [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: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lifestyle changes due to the COVID-19 pandemic may affect individuals' sexual lives and probably their sexual function. The present study aimed to explain the sexual lived experiences of health workers on the Iranian frontlines of the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. MATERIALS AND METHODS The present study was qualitative research using the conventional qualitative content analysis method. It was conducted in the city of Ramsar, Iran, in 2022. The data were collected using 12 in-depth personal interviews and a purposive sampling method. Lundman and Granheim's method was used to analyse the data. RESULTS The analysis of the data in the first phase of the research led to 60 initial codes, 7 subcategories, 3 main categories (concerns about health risks, sexual dissatisfaction, and sexual facilitators and barriers), and one theme (unhealthy lifestyle due to sexual dissatisfaction). CONCLUSION The present study revealed new and different dimensions of the sexual experiences of health workers on the frontlines of the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic [concerns about health risks, sexual dissatisfaction, sexual facilitators, and sexual inhibitors]; these dimensions are based on the Iranian context and culture that can be considered to enhance sexual pleasure and the physical and mental health of health professionals that have an impact on improving patients' and people's health status in society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Mohammadkhah
- Nursing Care Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, I.R. Iran
| | - Fakhreddin Chaboksavar
- Nursing Care Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, I.R. Iran
| | - Fatemeh Alhani
- Nursing Care Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, I.R. Iran
- Nursing Education, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amina Mahmoudian
- Nursing Care Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, I.R. Iran
| | - Arash Ziapour
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Health Institute, Imam-Ali Hospital, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Abdolhosein Emami Sigaroud
- Cardiovascular Diseases Research Center, Department of Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Guilan, Iran
| | - Zahra Jannat Alipour
- Nursing Care Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, I.R. Iran
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Ng CB, Tan YL, Kamaludin RS, Chang CT, Chew CC, Foong WK, Lee SH, Hamdan N, Ong SY. Experience and attitudes of pharmacists towards challenges and adaptive measures to new norm in ward pharmacy practice during the COVID-19 pandemic. J Pharm Policy Pract 2023; 16:85. [PMID: 37430298 DOI: 10.1186/s40545-023-00579-4] [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: 04/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND COVID-19 pandemic has created challenges to the ward pharmacy practice. Challenges arose due to new norms in the ward pharmacy practice. Adaptive measures to overcome these challenges were important to sustain the quality of pharmaceutical care. This study aimed to identify the perceived challenges and attitudes towards adaptive measures in the ward pharmacy practice during the COVID-19 pandemic and determined their association with pharmacists' characteristics. METHOD This cross-sectional study was conducted in 14 Perak state hospitals and 12 primary health clinics through an online survey. All ward pharmacists and trainee pharmacists with at least 1 month of ward pharmacy experience and working in government-funded health facilities were included. The validated survey tool consisted of demographic characteristics, pharmacists' experience towards challenges (22 items), and their attitude towards adaptive measures (9 items). Each item was measured based on a 5-point Likert scale. One-way ANOVA and logistic regression were employed to determine the association of pharmacists' characteristics against their experience and attitude. RESULTS Out of 175 respondents, 144 (81.8%) were female, and 84 (47.7%) were Chinese. Most pharmacists served in the medical ward (124, 70.5%). Commonly reported perceived challenges were difficulties in counselling medication devices (3.63 ± 1.06), difficulties in clerking medication history from family members (3.63 ± 0.99), contacting family members (3.46 ± 0.90), patient's digital illiteracy in virtual counselling (3.43 ± 1.11) and completeness of the electronic records (3.36 ± 0.99). For attitude towards adaptive measures, improving internet connection (4.62 ± 0.58), ensuring availability of multilingual counselling videos (4.45 ± 0.64), and provision of internet-enabled mobile devices (4.39 ± 0.76) were the most agreeable by the pharmacists. Male (AOR: 2.63, CI 1.12-6.16, p = 0.026) and master's degree holders (AOR: 2.79, CI 0.95-8.25, p = 0.063) had greater odds of high perceived challenging experience scores. Master's degree holders (AOR: 8.56, CI 1.741-42.069, p = 0.008) were also more likely to have a positive attitude score towards adaptive measures. CONCLUSION Pharmacists faced multiple challenges in the ward pharmacy practice during the COVID-19 pandemic, especially in medication history assessment and patient counselling. Pharmacists, especially those with higher levels of education and longer tenure, exhibited a higher level of agreement towards the adaptive measures. The positive attitudes of pharmacists towards various adaptive measures, such as improvement of internet infrastructure and digital health literacy among patients and family members, warrant immediate action plans from health authorities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chew Beng Ng
- Pharmacy Department, Hospital Taiping, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Taiping, Malaysia
| | - You Leng Tan
- Pharmacy Department, Hospital Taiping, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Taiping, Malaysia
| | - Ros Sakinah Kamaludin
- Pharmacy Department, Hospital Raja Permaisuri Bainun, Ipoh, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Ipoh, Malaysia
| | - Chee Tao Chang
- Clinical Research Centre, Hospital Raja Permaisuri Bainun, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Ipoh, Malaysia.
- School of Pharmacy, Monash University Malaysia, Subang Jaya, Malaysia.
| | - Chii-Chii Chew
- Clinical Research Centre, Hospital Raja Permaisuri Bainun, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Ipoh, Malaysia
| | - Wai Keng Foong
- Pharmacy Department, Hospital Batu Gajah, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Batu Gajah, Malaysia
| | - Siew Huang Lee
- Pharmacy Department, Hospital Kuala Kangsar, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Kuala Kangsar, Malaysia
| | - Normi Hamdan
- Pharmacy Department, Hospital Seri Manjung, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Seri Manjung, Malaysia
| | - Su Yin Ong
- Perak Pharmaceutical Services Division, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Tanjung Rambutan, Malaysia
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20
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Alsufyani MH, Alghoribi MH, Bin Salman TO, Alrabie AF, Alotaibi IS, Kharbosh AM, Alsheikh MY, Alshahrani AM, Fathelrahman AI. Generic Substitutions and Therapeutic Interchanges in Hospital Pharmacies: A Qualitative Study from Western Saudi Arabia. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:1893. [PMID: 37444727 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11131893] [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: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: The aim of the present study was to understand hospital pharmacists' views and practices regarding generic substitution and therapeutic interchange. Method: This was a qualitative study involving pharmacists from three Western Saudi governorates: Taif, Makkah, and Jeddah. It included respondents from the Ministry of Health (MoH), military and private hospitals. Pharmacists were selected using a convenient sampling technique and data were collected using a structured face-to-face interview. Results: Fifty-seven pharmacists agreed to participate in this study. In MoH and private hospitals, generic substitution is a pharmacist-initiated act, while therapeutic interchange requires physician approval. Medication unavailability, side effects, patient characteristics, outcomes, and economic status justified most substitution decisions. In military hospitals, both types of substitutions are controlled by an auto-switch policy and physicians should be informed. In all hospitals, there are policies regulating substitution. Medications eligible for interchange mentioned by pharmacists from different hospitals were comparable to some extent. Pharmacists from the private sector considered substitution a supportive economic measure for both hospitals and patients. Most pharmacists highlighted that patient convenience and physician approval are the most challenging situations in substitution practice. Conclusions: An enhanced understanding of substitution and knowledge about medications included in the hospital formulary will be valuable support to the implementation of substitution practice which responds to the patients' needs to improve their outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Abdullah Mosa Kharbosh
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taif University, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mona Yaser Alsheikh
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taif University, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ali Mofleh Alshahrani
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Taif University, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia
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21
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Melaku T, Zeynudin A, Suleman S. Ethical challenges and dilemmas in the rationing of health commodities and provision of high-risk clinical services during COVID-19 pandemic in Ethiopia: the experiences of frontline health workers. Philos Ethics Humanit Med 2023; 18:6. [PMID: 37370151 DOI: 10.1186/s13010-023-00136-6] [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: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ethical reasoning and sensitivity are always important in public health, but it is especially important in the sensitive and complex area of public health emergency preparedness. Here, we explored the ethical challenges, and dilemmas encountered by frontline health workers amid the coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) pandemic in Ethiopia. METHODS A nationwide survey was conducted amongst the frontline health workers from nineteen public hospitals. Health workers were invited to respond to a self-administered questionnaire. Data were weighted and analyzed using descriptive statistics. RESULTS Of the 285 frontline health workers to whom questionnaires were distributed, 217 of them gave their responses (response rate 76.1%). Respondents frequently reported encountering rationing dilemmas on health commodities directly used for the prevention and treatment of COVID-19. Most (83.9%) of the health workers agreed that they encountered ethical challenges very frequently or frequently. Almost all [215(99.1%)] claimed that the limitation of resources was directly used for the treatment and prevention of COVID-19. The frequency of difficulty in the provision of essential clinical services varied between 77% and 98.7% for different services. More than half of the study participants reported that they had encountered difficulty in the provision of clinical care on a daily or weekly basis. Regarding rationing strategies, isolating COVID-19 treatment units and limiting admission were the most frequent rationing strategies used by two-thirds of health workers on a daily or weekly basis. CONCLUSION Front-line health workers encountered numerous ethically challenging situations during COVID-19. More than half of health workers reported that they encountered ethical challenges in rationing the resources and delivery of different clinical services such as family planning services, maternal and childcare, immunization, and chronic care. With limited resources such as ventilators and hospital beds, healthcare providers have been faced with the difficult task of deciding who gets access to these resources and who doesn't. Overall, the COVID-19 pandemic has presented numerous ethical challenges for healthcare providers, highlighting the importance of ethical considerations in healthcare delivery. By being aware of these dilemmas and having policies in place to address them, healthcare providers can ensure that they are providing the best possible care to their patients while upholding ethical standards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tsegaye Melaku
- School of Pharmacy, Institute of Health, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia.
| | - Ahmed Zeynudin
- School of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Institute of Health, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
| | - Sultan Suleman
- School of Pharmacy, Institute of Health, Jimma University, Jimma, Ethiopia
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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.
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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
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Sobierajski T, Rzymski P, Wanke-Rytt M. The Influence of Recommendation of Medical and Non-Medical Authorities on the Decision to Vaccinate against Influenza from a Social Vaccinology Perspective: Cross-Sectional, Representative Study of Polish Society. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:vaccines11050994. [PMID: 37243098 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11050994] [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: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 05/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Vaccination against seasonal flu is crucial to prevention of illness in modern societies. The level of influenza vaccination in Poland is low and, for many years, has hovered around a few percent of the general population. For this reason, it is crucial to understand the reasons for such a low level of vaccination and to assess the influence of medical and social authorities on the decision to vaccinate against influenza from the perspective of social vaccinology. For this purpose, a representative survey was conducted in 2022 among adult Poles (N = 805), orchestrated with the CAWI technique based on the author's questionnaire. The most significant authority in the context of influenza vaccination is held by physicians, especially among the oldest part of the population, over 65 years of age-in this group, 50.4% of respondents declare a very high level of respect for physicians on the issue of recommended influenza vaccination (p < 0.001), and the second-highest authority group for which seniors have respect in the aspect of influenza vaccination is pharmacists (p = 0.011). It was also shown that pharmacists have more authority on the issue of influenza vaccination than nurses, especially in the group that declared themselves opponents of vaccination (p < 0.001). The survey indicates the need to strengthen the authority of physicians and pharmacists regarding influenza vaccination, and, in the case of pharmacists, the need for changing the law to allow them to qualify for influenza vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomasz Sobierajski
- The Center of Sociomedical Research, Faculty of Applied Social Sciences and Resocialization, University of Warsaw, 26/28 Krakowskie Przedmieście Str., 00-927 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Piotr Rzymski
- Department of Environmental Medicine, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-806 Poznań, Poland
- Integrated Science Association (ISA), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), 60-806 Poznań, Poland
| | - Monika Wanke-Rytt
- Department of Pediatrics with Clinical Assessment Unit, Medical University of Warsaw, 63a Żwirki i Wigury Str., 02-091 Warsaw, Poland
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Baratta F, Enri LR, Brusa P. Community pharmacists as vaccinators in the SARS-CoV-2 immunization campaign: implications beyond the pandemic. Health Policy 2023; 131:104798. [PMID: 36966630 PMCID: PMC10030261 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthpol.2023.104798] [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: 02/21/2022] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/24/2023]
Abstract
Italy was one of the last European countries to introduce vaccination in pharmacies. The urgent need to extend the vaccination campaign against SARS-CoV-2 led to the approval of Law no. 178/2020. The Law allowed the administration of COVID-19 vaccines in Italian pharmacies by community pharmacists on an experimental basis for the years 2021-2022. Stakeholders took contrasting positions on the idea of enabling pharmacist to vaccinate after proper training. Sometimes, controversy existed even within the same associations representing pharmacists. As observed in other countries, the medical profession in Italy also expressed its opposition to the idea of pharmacists as vaccinators, while the general public and pharmacy customers were generally in favour of the policy. Over two million doses of SARS-CoV-vaccines were administered in Italian pharmacies in less than one year after the introduction of the policy. Criticism and concerns raised during the debate about the introduction of vaccination in pharmacies has subsided. It is yet unclear whether vaccination in pharmacies will be prolonged after the pandemic and whether it will, in fact, be expanded to other vaccines. Potentially, this could contribute towards increasing immunisation rates, not only for COVID-19, but also for other vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Baratta
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy.
| | | | - Paola Brusa
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
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Watson KE, Lee DH, Nusair MB, Al Hamarneh YN. Impact of the Novel CoronaviruS (COVID-19) on Frontline PharmacIsts Roles and ServicEs: INSPIRE Worldwide Survey. PHARMACY 2023; 11:pharmacy11020066. [PMID: 37104072 PMCID: PMC10142295 DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy11020066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Revised: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Pharmacy has been recognized as a vital healthcare profession during the COVID-19 pandemic. The primary objective of the INSPIRE Worldwide survey was to determine the impact of COVID-19 on pharmacy practice and pharmacists’ roles around the world. Methods: A cross-sectional online questionnaire with pharmacists who provided direct patient care during the pandemic. Participants were recruited through social media, with assistance from national and international pharmacy organizations between March 2021–May 2022. The questionnaire was divided into (1) demographics, (2) pharmacists’ roles, (3) communication strategies, and (4) practice challenges. The data were analyzed using SPSS 28, and descriptive statistics were used to report frequencies and percentages. Results: A total of 505 pharmacists practicing in 25 countries participated. The most common role that pharmacists undertook was responding to drug information requests (90%), followed by allaying patients’ fears and anxieties about COVID-19 (82.6%), and addressing misinformation about COVID-19 treatments and vaccinations (80.4%). The most common challenges were increased stress levels (84.7%), followed by medication shortages (73.8%), general supply shortages (71.8%), and inadequate staffing (69.2%). Conclusions: Pharmacists within this study were significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and took on new or adapted roles (e.g., providing COVID-specific information, managing patients’ emotions, and educating on public health measures) to meet the needs of their communities. Despite, the significant challenges (e.g., increased stress, supply chain challenges, addressing misinformation, and staffing shortages) faced by pharmacists, they continued to put their patients’ needs first and to provide pharmacy services.
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26
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Lama Z, Hala S, Chadia H, Rony ZM, Marwan A, Aline H, Pascale S. The association of management and leadership competencies with work satisfaction among pharmacists in Lebanon. J Pharm Policy Pract 2023; 16:48. [PMID: 36945015 PMCID: PMC10028777 DOI: 10.1186/s40545-023-00554-z] [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: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pharmacists are at the core of the healthcare system and are the most accessible healthcare professionals. Their new roles involve leadership skills, among others. Work satisfaction of pharmacists might affect the quality of the services they provide. Hence, the primary objective of this study was to evaluate the management/leadership skills and work satisfaction of pharmacists and working pharmacy students. The secondary objective was to establish the relationship between management/leadership competencies and work satisfaction. METHODS This cross-sectional study enrolled 415 Lebanese pharmacists and fifth-year pharmacy students (undergraduates) working in different pharmacy sectors across Lebanon from August 2021 through October 2021 using the snowball sampling technique and validated tools to assess management/leadership competencies and work satisfaction. RESULTS Management/leadership competencies were significantly correlated with work satisfaction (B = 0.288) and inversely associated with being engaged/married (B = - 2.825) and living outside Beirut or Mount Lebanon (B = - 1.873). Pharmacy students did not significantly differ in their leadership/management level from graduate pharmacists. Work satisfaction was significantly associated with management/leadership competencies (B = 0.062) and inversely related to education level (B = - 0.644). CONCLUSIONS Pharmacists' work satisfaction and management/leadership competencies are interrelated, although the level of satisfaction seemed lower than the declared level of competencies. These concepts are differentially affected by personal and work-related characteristics. More efforts should be exerted to improve both the satisfaction and management/leadership competencies of pharmacists in Lebanon.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sacre Hala
- INSPECT-LB (Institut National de Santé Publique, d'Épidémiologie Clinique et de Toxicologie-Liban), Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Haddad Chadia
- INSPECT-LB (Institut National de Santé Publique, d'Épidémiologie Clinique et de Toxicologie-Liban), Beirut, Lebanon.
- School of Medicine, Lebanese American University, Beirut, Lebanon.
- Research Department, Psychiatric Hospital of the Cross, P.O. Box 60096, Jal Eddib, Lebanon.
- School of Health Sciences, Modern University for Business and Science, Beirut, Lebanon.
| | - Zeenny M Rony
- INSPECT-LB (Institut National de Santé Publique, d'Épidémiologie Clinique et de Toxicologie-Liban), Beirut, Lebanon
- Department of Pharmacy, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Akel Marwan
- INSPECT-LB (Institut National de Santé Publique, d'Épidémiologie Clinique et de Toxicologie-Liban), Beirut, Lebanon
- School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Hajj Aline
- INSPECT-LB (Institut National de Santé Publique, d'Épidémiologie Clinique et de Toxicologie-Liban), Beirut, Lebanon
- Laboratoire de Pharmacologie, Pharmacie Clinique et Contrôle de Qualité des Médicament (LPCQM), Faculty of Pharmacy, Saint-Joseph University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
- Faculté de Pharmacie, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
- Oncology Division, CHU de Québec Université Laval Research Center, Québec, Canada
| | - Salameh Pascale
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Lebanese University, Hadat, Lebanon
- INSPECT-LB (Institut National de Santé Publique, d'Épidémiologie Clinique et de Toxicologie-Liban), Beirut, Lebanon
- School of Medicine, Lebanese American University, Beirut, Lebanon
- Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University of Nicosia Medical School, 2417, Nicosia, Cyprus
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27
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Sniffer dogs performance is stable over time in detecting COVID-19 positive samples and agrees with the rapid antigen test in the field. Sci Rep 2023; 13:3679. [PMID: 36872400 PMCID: PMC9985821 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-30897-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Rapid antigen diagnostic (RAD) tests have been developed for the identification of the SARS-CoV-2 infection. However, they require nasopharyngeal or nasal swab, which is invasive, uncomfortable, and aerosolising. The use of saliva test was also proposed but has not yet been validated. Trained dogs may efficiently smell the presence of SARS-CoV-2 in biological samples of infected people, but further validation is needed both in laboratory and in field. The present study aimed to (1) assess and validate the stability over a specific time period of COVID-19 detection in humans' armpit sweat by trained dogs thanks to a double-blind laboratory test-retest design, and (2) assess this ability when sniffing people directly. Dogs were not trained to discriminate against other infections. For all dogs (n. 3), the laboratory test on 360 samples yielded 93% sensitivity and 99% specificity, an 88% agreement with the Rt-PCR, and a moderate to strong test-retest correlation. When sniffing people directly (n. 97), dogs' (n. 5) overall sensitivity (89%) and specificity (95%) were significantly above chance level. An almost perfect agreement with RAD results was found (kappa 0.83, SE 0.05, p = 0.001). Therefore, sniffer dogs met appropriate criteria (e.g., repeatability) and WHO's target product profiles for COVID-19 diagnostics and produced very promising results in laboratory and field settings, respectively. These findings support the idea that biodetection dogs could help reduce the spread of the virus in high-risk environments, including airports, schools, and public transport.
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28
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Impact of COVID-19 on hand surgery transfers at a level-1 trauma center. CURRENT ORTHOPAEDIC PRACTICE 2023. [DOI: 10.1097/bco.0000000000001203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
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29
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Suzuki S, Nishikawa Y, Okada H, Nakayama T. Information-seeking behaviour of community pharmacists during the COVID-19 pandemic: an ecological study. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e062465. [PMID: 36792330 PMCID: PMC9933132 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-062465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the information-seeking behaviour of pharmacists during the COVID-19 pandemic and its relation to COVID-19 and related infections and deaths within the local prefecture. DESIGN Ecological study. SETTING Japan-47 prefectures. METHODS The number of accesses to a Japanese web page established by the Pharmacy Informatics Group to disseminate information about infection control and the number of infections and deaths in 47 prefectures were investigated from 6 April to 30 September 2020 using the access information on the web page and publicly available information. RESULTS During the first 6 months of the COVID-19 pandemic, the total number of accesses was 226 130 (range: 10 984-138 898 per month), the total number of infections was 78 761 (1738-31 857) and the total number of deaths was 1470 (39-436). The correlation between the total number of accesses and that of infections per 100 000 individuals in 47 prefectures was r=0.72 (95% CI 0.55 to 0.83, p<0.001), and between the total number of accesses and deaths per 100 000 individuals in 47 prefectures was r=0.44 (95% CI 0.17 to 0.65, p=0.002). CONCLUSIONS The information-seeking behaviour of community pharmacists correlated positively with infection status within the community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shota Suzuki
- Department of Health Informatics, Kyoto University School of Public Health, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yoshitaka Nishikawa
- Department of Health Informatics, Kyoto University School of Public Health, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Okada
- Department of Health Informatics, Kyoto University School of Public Health, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Takeo Nakayama
- Department of Health Informatics, Kyoto University School of Public Health, Kyoto, Japan
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30
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Kambayashi D, Manabe T, Hirohara M. Adaptations in the role of pharmacists under the conditions of the COVID-19 pandemic: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Health Serv Res 2023; 23:72. [PMID: 36691043 PMCID: PMC9870779 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-023-09071-w] [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: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Community pharmacists actively engage in managing the health of local residents, but the COVID-19 pandemic has necessitated rapid adaptations in practice activities. OBJECTIVES We sought to identify the specific adaptations in practice and the expanded roles of community pharmacists in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS We conducted a systematic review of published studies reporting the tasks of pharmacists in community pharmacies or who were involved in pharmacy practices addressing the pandemic. Two investigators independently searched PubMed (December 2019-January 2022) for eligible articles. We conducted a meta-analysis to measure the frequencies of practical activities by pharmacists in response to COVID-19. RESULTS We identified 30 eligible studies. Meta-analysis of these studies found that the most commonly reported adaptation in pharmacist practice activities was modifying hygiene behaviors, including regular cleaning and disinfection (81.89%), followed by maintaining social distance from staff and clients (76.37%). Educating clients on COVID-19 was reported by 22 studies (72.54%). Telemedicine and home delivery services were provided to clients by 49.03 and 41.98% of pharmacists, respectively. CONCLUSIONS The roles of community pharmacists in public health activities have adapted and expanded in response to COVID-19, notably by incorporating public health education activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Kambayashi
- grid.412579.c0000 0001 2180 2836Laboratory of Pharmacy Practice, Center for Education and Research on Clinical Pharmacy, Showa Pharmaceutical University, Machida, Tokyo 194-8543 Japan ,grid.260433.00000 0001 0728 1069Department of Medical Innovation, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Aichi 467-8601 Japan
| | - Toshie Manabe
- grid.260433.00000 0001 0728 1069Department of Medical Innovation, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Aichi 467-8601 Japan ,grid.260433.00000 0001 0728 1069Center for Clinical Research, Nagoya City University West Medical Center, Nagoya, Aichi 462-8508 Japan
| | - Masayoshi Hirohara
- grid.412579.c0000 0001 2180 2836Laboratory of Pharmacy Practice, Center for Education and Research on Clinical Pharmacy, Showa Pharmaceutical University, Machida, Tokyo 194-8543 Japan
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31
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Jang C, Wellins C, Mihm AE, Nisly SA. Pharmacy Students' Professional Skill Development through a Scaffolded Internship. Innov Pharm 2022; 13:10.24926/iip.v13i2.4296. [PMID: 36654712 PMCID: PMC9836761 DOI: 10.24926/iip.v13i2.4296] [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] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Description of the problem: The establishment of hospital pharmacy internships helps promote the growth of student pharmacists alongside the standard pharmacy curriculum. These programs are vital to helping students expand their clinical knowledge, while also benefiting the host institution. Our objective was to characterize the value of a longitudinal internship program to both the institution and its interns. Description of the innovation: The Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist (AHWFB) Pharmacy Intern Program is a unique program designed with a scaffolded concept that directly complements traditional pharmacy school curriculum and provides interns opportunities to complement tasks of health-system pharmacists. Starting with operational responsibilities in the central distribution pharmacy during the first year of the curriculum, the interns transition to more patient-facing roles during the second and third years. Throughout the course of the program, interns are also given opportunities to participate in research and professional development activities. An IRB-approved, retrospective, observational study was conducted to evaluate the benefits of the program to the institution and interns. Critical analysis: Intern interventions were quantitatively evaluated to determine institutional benefit. From October 2017 to June 2020, 16 interns completed a total of 7,191 interventions, which equates to approximately $1,295,825 of cost avoidance for the institution. A quality assurance survey was also conducted to evaluate the program's benefit to the interns. Fourteen of the 16 eligible interns participated in the survey. Of the 14 participating interns, 85.7% (n=12) strongly agreed with overall satisfaction of the program. Additionally, 71% (n=10) strongly agreed with feeling more professionally prepared than their classmates. Next steps: Implementing a scaffolded internship program has positively benefited AHWFB and the participating interns. The program's design allows for clinical and professional development alongside the pharmacy school curriculum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaeyeong Jang
- Indiana University Health, Indianapolis, IN;,Corresponding author: Chaeyeong Jang, PharmD Indiana University Health Methodist Hospital 1701 N Senate Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46202 Phone: 336-607-4893;
| | - Chloe Wellins
- Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters, Norfolk, VA
| | - Alexandra E. Mihm
- Wingate University School of Pharmacy, Wingate, NC;,Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist, Winston-Salem, NC
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Safnuk C, Ackman ML, Schindel TJ, Watson KE. The COVID conversations: A content analysis of Canadian pharmacy organizations' communication of pharmacists' roles and services during the COVID-19 pandemic. Can Pharm J (Ott) 2022; 156:22-31. [PMID: 36660419 PMCID: PMC9747362 DOI: 10.1177/17151635221139195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Background The COVID-19 pandemic presented a unique challenge for pharmacists as they navigated information scarcity on the frontlines while being identified as information experts. Alberta pharmacists looked to their professional organizations for direction regarding what their roles should be in a crisis. The objective of this study was to explore pharmacists' roles and services and how they were communicated by pharmacy organizations during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods The study used a conventional content analysis method to explore the online communication of relevant pharmacy organizations for Alberta pharmacists. Five organization websites (National Association of Pharmacy Regulatory Authorities, Canadian Pharmacists Association [CPhA], Canadian Society of Hospital Pharmacists [CSHP], Alberta College of Pharmacy [ACP] and the Alberta Pharmacists' Association [RxA]) were examined to identify and catalogue publicly accessible documents that communicated pharmacists' roles and services during the first year of the pandemic for Alberta pharmacists. Results A total of 92 documents were collected from CPhA (60), CSHP (2), ACP (26) and RxA (4). While most documents communicated information about pharmacists' roles in public health, patient care and drug and personal protective equipment supply, more than one-third of the documents (32/92, 34.8%) required contextual information to interpret the communication. There was an observed shift in the communication after the first 6 months, becoming more direct in its messaging and context. Conclusion These pharmacy organizations communicated information for pharmacists' roles and services to provide direction and guidance in the ever-changing context of the COVID-19 pandemic for Alberta pharmacists. Their communication became clearer and more direct as the pandemic progressed, requiring less inference to understand the intended message.
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Barceló-Vidal J, Echeverría-Esnal D, Carballo N, De Antonio-Cuscó M, Fernández-Sala X, Navarrete-Rouco ME, Colominas-González E, Luque S, Fuster-Esteva M, Domingo L, Sala M, Duran X, Grau S, Ferrández O. Drug-related problems in patients admitted for SARS-CoV-2 infection during the COVID-19 pandemic. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:993158. [PMID: 36506516 PMCID: PMC9730804 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.993158] [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: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Drug-related problems (DRP) are events or circumstances in which drug therapy does or could interfere with desired health outcomes. In December 2019, a new coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2, appeared. Little knowledge about this type of infection resulted in the administration of various drugs with limited use in other pathologies. Evidence about DRP in patients with COVID-19 is lacking. Objective: The aim of the present study is to describe identified cases of DRP and those drugs involved in the first wave of patients with COVID-19, and evaluate associated risk factors. Material and methods: Observational, retrospective study performed in a tertiary university hospital between 14th March 2020 and 31 May 2020 (corresponding to the first COVID-19 wave). We recruited patients admitted during the study period. Exclusion criteria included age < 18 years; admission to critically ill units; and care received either in the emergency room, at-home hospitalization or a healthcare center. Results: A total of 817 patients were included. The mean age was 62.5 years (SD 16.4) (range 18-97), and 453 (55.4%) were male. A total of 516 DRP were detected. Among the patients, 271 (33.2%) presented at least one DRP. The mean DRP per patient with an identified case was 1.9. The prevailing DRPs among those observed were: incorrect dosage (over or underdosage) in 145 patients (28.2%); wrong drug combination in 131 (25.5%); prescriptions not in adherence to the then COVID-19 treatment protocol in 73 (14.1%); prescription errors due to the wrong use of the computerized physician order entry in 47 (9.2%); and incorrect dosage due to renal function in 36 (7%). The logistic regression analysis showed that patients who received only prescriptions of antibacterials for systemic use (J01 ATC group) faced a higher likelihood of experiencing a DRP (OR 2.408 (1.071-5.411), p = 0.033). Conclusion: We identified several factors associated with an increased risk of DRPs, similar to those reported in other pre-pandemic studies, including a prolonged length of stay, higher number of prescribed drugs and antimicrobial administration. The relevance of pharmacists and tools like pharmacy warning systems can help prevent, identify and resolve DRP efficiently.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. Barceló-Vidal
- Pharmacy Department, Hospital del Mar, Parc de Salut Mar, Barcelona, Spain,Institut Hospital del Mar d’Investigacions Mèdiques (IMIM), Barcelona, Spain,*Correspondence: J. Barceló-Vidal,
| | - D. Echeverría-Esnal
- Pharmacy Department, Hospital del Mar, Parc de Salut Mar, Barcelona, Spain,Institut Hospital del Mar d’Investigacions Mèdiques (IMIM), Barcelona, Spain
| | - N. Carballo
- Pharmacy Department, Hospital del Mar, Parc de Salut Mar, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - X. Fernández-Sala
- Pharmacy Department, Hospital del Mar, Parc de Salut Mar, Barcelona, Spain,Institut Hospital del Mar d’Investigacions Mèdiques (IMIM), Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | - S. Luque
- Pharmacy Department, Hospital del Mar, Parc de Salut Mar, Barcelona, Spain
| | - M. Fuster-Esteva
- Faculty of Medicine, Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain
| | - L. Domingo
- Institut Hospital del Mar d’Investigacions Mèdiques (IMIM), Barcelona, Spain,Department of Epidemiology and Evaluation, Barcelona, Spain
| | - M. Sala
- Institut Hospital del Mar d’Investigacions Mèdiques (IMIM), Barcelona, Spain,Department of Epidemiology and Evaluation, Barcelona, Spain
| | - X. Duran
- Statistics Deparment, Institut Hospital del Mar D'Investigacions Mèdiques (IMIM), Barcelona, Spain
| | - S. Grau
- Pharmacy Department, Hospital del Mar, Parc de Salut Mar, Barcelona, Spain,Institut Hospital del Mar d’Investigacions Mèdiques (IMIM), Barcelona, Spain,Faculty of Medicine, Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain
| | - O. Ferrández
- Pharmacy Department, Hospital del Mar, Parc de Salut Mar, Barcelona, Spain,Institut Hospital del Mar d’Investigacions Mèdiques (IMIM), Barcelona, Spain
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Saleh EA, Haddadin RN, Saleh B, Elayeh E. Changes in drug demand when a pandemic coincides with other outbreaks in a war zone country: a cross-sectional pilot study. J Pharm Policy Pract 2022; 15:89. [PMID: 36419090 PMCID: PMC9682693 DOI: 10.1186/s40545-022-00487-z] [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: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Yemen's health system has severely deteriorated due to the ongoing civil war accompanied by the COVID-19 pandemic which coincided with other outbreaks of endemic infections. Many health institutions closed due to insufficient equipment and supplies. Consequently, pharmacists became the available healthcare provider on the frontlines. This study aimed to evaluate the pattern of demand for prescription and nonprescription drugs during the pandemic based on the pharmacist's perspective in Yemen, a conflict zone country. METHODS An online survey was developed, validated, and distributed among pharmacists. The questionnaire was composed of two sections: (1) demographic characteristics of the participants and (2) changes in the demand for different drug categories. Chi-square test and Fisher's exact test were used to find statistical associations. RESULTS Responses (330) were received from pharmacists working in 12 out of 22 governorates in Yemen. During the pandemic, there was an increase in the demand for prescription drugs such as antibiotics, antimalarials, and sedatives (95%, 90%, and 71%, respectively) and an increase in the demand for nonprescription drugs such as vitamins (93%) and paracetamol (> 90%). Some of these drugs could have serious side effects if taken without medical advice, and others could result in severe effects if taken concomitantly. In addition, there was an increase in the demand for prescription drugs without a prescription, which was reported by 50% of the participants. No statistical difference was seen between the frontline districts and major cities in terms of requesting these drugs without a prescription. On the other hand, most participants (75.2%) did not attend any training or workshop during the last 6 months of conducting this survey. CONCLUSION COVID-19 has increased the demand for many prescription and nonprescription drugs, where the irrational use of these drugs may lead to devastating health effects. In war zone areas hit by a pandemic, policymakers and public health organizations should focus on training and educating pharmacists as important health care and medicine providers for the public.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ebtesam A. Saleh
- grid.411125.20000 0001 2181 7851Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, University of Aden, Aden, Yemen
| | - Randa N. Haddadin
- grid.9670.80000 0001 2174 4509Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, School of Pharmacy, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Bassam Saleh
- Medical and Health Unit, International Organization of Migration (IOM), Aden, Yemen
| | - Eman Elayeh
- grid.9670.80000 0001 2174 4509Department of Biopharmaceutics and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
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Bochniarz M, Inglot-Brzęk E, Lewandowska A, Podgórska J. Directions of Changes in the Profession of Hospital Pharmacist in Poland. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:14522. [PMID: 36361404 PMCID: PMC9658758 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192114522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The Act on the Pharmacist Profession, adopted on 10 December 2020, is a breakthrough for the entire community of pharmacists in Poland. Due to the scope of the changes introduced in the Act, the question is whether pharmacists in Poland are suitably prepared for pharmaceutical care and clinical pharmacy services. The main aim of the study is to assess the readiness of hospital pharmacists to introduce changes in the way the profession functions. The result of the study is the presentation of the concept of a new model of pharmacist functioning in healthcare entities and the indication of actions necessary to carry out such a change. The questionnaire was addressed to all hospital pharmacists in Poland. Two hundred and seventy-seven hospital pharmacists were included in the research. The analysis of the data revealed that almost all (96.1%) respondents indicated the need to introduce changes to the model of functioning of pharmacists in medical entities. Two-thirds of pharmacists declared readiness to start work to introduce changes. Hospital pharmacists recognize the importance of clinical pharmacy in their current practice; however, the biggest barrier is the lack of financing, an insufficient number of staff, a lack of knowledge and skills, and a lack of tools to use the service.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcin Bochniarz
- Specialist Hospital, Subcarpathian Oncology Centre, 36-200 Brzozów, Poland
| | | | - Anna Lewandowska
- Department of Management, University of Information Technology and Management, 35-225 Rzeszów, Poland
| | - Joanna Podgórska
- Department of Economics and Finance, University of Information Technology and Management, 35-225 Rzeszów, Poland
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Kriegel J, Weigl A, Rissbacher C, Dieck M, Tuttle-Weidinger L. Characteristics and levers in the business model of hospital pharmacies in German-speaking countries. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HEALTHCARE MANAGEMENT 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/20479700.2022.2130639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Kriegel
- Institute for Management and Economics in Healthcare, UMIT - University for Health Sciences, Medical Informatics & Technology, Hall i.T., Austria
| | - Alexander Weigl
- Hospital Pharmacy, Kepler University Hospital, Linz, Austria
| | | | - Marcel Dieck
- Hellmann Worldwide Logistics SE & Co. KG, Hospital Logistics, Bremen, Germany
| | - Linda Tuttle-Weidinger
- School of Applied Health and Social Sciences, University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria, Linz, Austria
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Chang CT, Ong SY, Lim XJ, Chew LS, Rajan P. Managing nirmatrelvir/ritonavir during COVID-19: pharmacists’ experiences from the Perak state of Malaysia. J Pharm Policy Pract 2022; 15:70. [PMID: 36274169 PMCID: PMC9589596 DOI: 10.1186/s40545-022-00469-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractNovel therapeutic agents for SARS-CoV-2 have emerged over time, serving to reduce the severity of the disease, admission and mortality, especially among high-risk populations. Oral nirmatrelvir/ritonavir (Paxlovid®) was found to reduce the risk of disease progression. Pharmacists played multiple roles in handling the COVID-19 pandemic. This article highlights the roles of pharmacists in managing nirmatrelvir/ritonavir within the Malaysian context. Pharmacists were actively involved in Paxlovid® inventory management. To ensure the balance between supply and demand of new therapeutic drugs, pharmacists in health facilities constantly monitor the inventory levels of the medications. As Paxlovid® was initially reserved for a certain population who met the clinical eligibility criteria based on a scoring system, pharmacists were required to screen and exclude patients with non-indications or contraindications to the medication. During dispensing, pharmacists convey clear instructions on how to take the medications to ensure adherence and medication safety. The novel nature of the medications necessitates pharmacists to counsel patients regarding its indication, the mode of action, actions to take when missing a dose or overdose happens, side effects, storage and disposal methods, as well as mechanism of reporting adverse drug reactions. Pharmacists were required to follow-up all patients via phone call on Day 3 and Day 5 post-initiation, examining both adherence and adverse drug reactions associated with Paxlovid®. Pharmacists experienced multiple challenges in managing Paxlovid®, particularly due to increased workload, suboptimal follow-up response, stringent medication storage requirements, and adherence issues. Universal research and innovation initiatives were proposed to improve the delivery of novel therapeutic agents in the future health system.
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Advances in Pharmacy Practice: A Look towards the Future. PHARMACY 2022; 10:pharmacy10050125. [PMID: 36287446 PMCID: PMC9608826 DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy10050125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
This review looks at the factors that may influence practice in the future. Transformation could occur at 3 levels. Firstly, the traditional profession of the pharmacist as a dispenser of medicines is expanding. Secondly, the pharmacist’s activities are progressing into new healthcare fields. Thirdly, other changes are stimulated by global developments. This review may be helpful for pharmacy and healthcare leaders looking at the future configuration and aims of their pharmacy services.
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Sweileh WM. Bibliometric analysis of COVID-19 research publications in pharmacy practice journals. JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL HEALTH SERVICES RESEARCH 2022. [PMCID: PMC9494489 DOI: 10.1093/jphsr/rmac026] [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] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Objectives
Pharmacy practice journals are considered the main player in promoting pharmacy practice research and the pharmacy profession globally. The current study aimed to explore and analyze literature on the COVID-19 pandemic published in pharmacy practice journals.
Methods
COVID-19 research articles were extracted from 32 pharmacy practice journals indexed in Scopus for the study period from 01 January 2020, up until 31 December 2021
Key findings
A total of 581 documents were found with an average of 4.5 authors per article and 4.8 citations per document. The retrieved documents were published in 28 pharmacy practice-related journals with the Research in Social and Administrative Pharmacy and the American Journal of Health System Pharmacy journals being the leaders in this field. The major findings of the analysis indicated (1) a limited number of contributing countries with limited author-author interactions and cross country collaboration; (2) specific topics were encountered, mainly hospital pharmacy services, survey studies on knowledge, and pharmacy education; (3) several contributing countries in the Middle East, mainly Saudi Arabia; Egypt, and Jordan contributed to the retrieved documents, and (4) the highly-cited documents discussed issues related to pharmacy services and role of the community pharmacists during the pandemic.
Conclusion
Research activity on COVID-19 in pharmacy practice journals represents the commitment of researchers and professionals to transform and promote the profession of pharmacy. Research on pharmacy practice and pharmacists in low- and middle-income countries during pandemics needs to be prioritized by scholars and journal editors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Waleed M Sweileh
- Department of Physiology, Pharmacology/Toxicology, Division of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, An-Najah National University , Nablus , Palestine
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Interventions and Impact of Pharmacist-Delivered Services for People Infected with COVID-19: A Systematic Review. Healthcare (Basel) 2022; 10:healthcare10091630. [PMID: 36141242 PMCID: PMC9498522 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10091630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Revised: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Pharmacists are essential members of the healthcare team. The emergence of the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has led pharmacists to undertake additional clinical roles. We aim to conduct a systematic review on the interventions and impact of pharmacist-delivered services in managing COVID-19 patients. We searched PubMed, Embase, Scopus, CINAHL plus, International Pharmaceutical Abstracts, and Web of Science from 1 December 2019 (the first case of COVID-19 emerged) to 13 January 2022 to retrieve the articles. Cochrane handbook and PRISMA guidelines were followed respectively to perform and report the review. The pharmacist-led interventions were reported following the Descriptive Elements of Pharmacist Intervention Characterization Tool (DEPICT) version 2. The protocol of systematic review was registered on PROSPERO (CRD42021277128). Studies quality was assessed with the modified NOS scale. In total, 7 observational studies were identified from 10,838 studies. Identification of dosage errors (n = 6 studies), regimen modifications (n = 5), removal of obsolete/duplicate medications (n = 5), identification and management of adverse drug reactions (n = 4), drug interactions prevention (n = 2), and physicians acceptance rate (n = 3) of therapy-related services delivered in-person or via tele-pharmacy were among the pharmacist-delivered services. Common interventions delivered by pharmacists also included optimizing the use of antibacterial, antivirals, and anticoagulants in COVID-19 infected patients. The acceptance of pharmacist-delivered services by physicians was high (88.5–95.5%). Included studies have described pharmacists’ beneficial role in managing patients with COVID-19 including detection, resolution, and prevention of medication-related problems, with physicians demonstrating high trust in pharmacists’ advice. Future research should assess the feasibility and scalability of such roles in real-world settings.
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Grant A, Rowe L, Kennie-Kaulbach N, Bishop A, Kontak J, Stewart S, Morrison B, Sketris I, Rodrigues G, Minard L, Whelan AM, Woodill L, Jeffers E, Fisher J, Ricketts J, Isenor JE. Increased self-reported pharmacist prescribing during the COVID-19 pandemic: Using the Theoretical Domains Framework to identify barriers and facilitators to prescribing. Res Social Adm Pharm 2022; 19:133-143. [PMID: 36038458 PMCID: PMC9392557 DOI: 10.1016/j.sapharm.2022.08.014] [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: 05/09/2022] [Revised: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Background Community pharmacists are positioned to improve access to medications through their ever-expanding role as prescribers, with this role becoming more pronounced during the COVID-19 pandemic. Objectives Our research aimed to determine the extent of self-reported pharmacist prescribing pre-COVID-19 and during the COVID-19 pandemic, to identify barriers and facilitators to pharmacist prescribing, and to explore the relationship between these factors and self-reported prescribing activity. Methods A questionnaire based on the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDFv2) assessing self-reported prescribing was electronically distributed to all direct patient care pharmacists in NS (N = 1338) in July 2020. Wilcoxon signed-rank tests were used to examine temporal differences in self-reported prescribing activity. TDFv2 responses were descriptively reported as positive (agree/strongly agree), neutral (uncertain), and negative (strongly disagree/disagree) based on the 5-point Likert scale assessing barriers and facilitators to prescribing from March 2020 onward (i.e., ‘during’ COVID-19). Simple logistic regression was used to measure the relationship between TDFv2 domain responses and self-reported prescribing activity. Results A total of 190 pharmacists (14.2%) completed the survey. Over 98% of respondents reported prescribing at least once per month in any of the approved prescribing categories, with renewals being the most common activity reported. Since the pandemic, activity in several categories of prescribing significantly increased, including diagnosis supported by protocol (29.0% vs. 58.9%, p < 0.01), minor and common ailments (25.3% vs 34.7%, p = 0.03), preventative medicine (22.1% vs. 33.2%, p < 0.01). Amongst the TDFv2 domains, Beliefs about Consequences domain had the largest influence on prescribing activity (OR = 3.13, 95% CI 1.41–6.97, p < 0.01), with Social Influences (OR = 2.85, 95% CI 1.42–5.70, p < 0.01) being the next most influential. Conclusion Self-reported prescribing by direct patient care community pharmacists in Nova Scotia increased during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly for government-funded services. Key barriers to address, and facilitators to support pharmacist prescribing were identified and can be used to inform future interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Grant
- Maritime SPOR SUPPORT Unit, Research, Innovation & Discovery Nova Scotia Health, 5790 University Ave., Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3H1V7, Canada.
| | - Liam Rowe
- Maritime SPOR SUPPORT Unit, Research, Innovation & Discovery Nova Scotia Health, 5790 University Ave., Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3H1V7, Canada.
| | | | - Andrea Bishop
- Nova Scotia College of Pharmacists, 1801 Hollis St, Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3J 3N4, Canada.
| | - Julia Kontak
- Maritime SPOR SUPPORT Unit, Research, Innovation & Discovery Nova Scotia Health, 5790 University Ave., Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3H1V7, Canada.
| | - Sam Stewart
- Dalhousie University, Nova Scotia, B3H 4R2, Canada.
| | - Bobbi Morrison
- St. Francis Xavier University, 3090 Martha Drive, Antigonish, Nova Scotia, B2G 2W5, Canada.
| | - Ingrid Sketris
- Nova Scotia College of Pharmacists, 1801 Hollis St, Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3J 3N4, Canada.
| | - Glenn Rodrigues
- Pharmacy Association of Nova Scotia, 210-238A Brownlow Ave, Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, B3B 2B4, Canada.
| | - Laura Minard
- Nova Scotia Department of Health and Wellness, 1894 Barrington Street, Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3J 2R8, Canada.
| | | | - Lisa Woodill
- Pharmacy Association of Nova Scotia, 210-238A Brownlow Ave, Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, B3B 2B4, Canada.
| | - Elizabeth Jeffers
- Maritime SPOR SUPPORT Unit, Research, Innovation & Discovery Nova Scotia Health, 5790 University Ave., Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3H1V7, Canada.
| | - Judith Fisher
- Nova Scotia Department of Health and Wellness, 1894 Barrington Street, Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3J 2R8, Canada.
| | - Juanna Ricketts
- Maritime SPOR SUPPORT Unit, Research, Innovation & Discovery Nova Scotia Health, 5790 University Ave., Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3H1V7, Canada.
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Murteira R, Romano S, Teixeira I, Bulhosa C, Sousa S, Conceição MI, Fonseca-Silva A, Martins H, Teixeira Rodrigues A. Real-World Impact of Transferring the Dispensing of Hospital-Only Medicines to Community Pharmacies During the COVID-19 Pandemic. VALUE IN HEALTH : THE JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR PHARMACOECONOMICS AND OUTCOMES RESEARCH 2022; 25:1321-1327. [PMID: 35428552 PMCID: PMC9002297 DOI: 10.1016/j.jval.2022.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In Portugal, the dispensing of most outpatient specialty medicines is performed exclusively through hospital pharmacies and totally financed by the National Health Service. During the COVID-19 first wave, the government allowed the transfer of the dispensing of hospital-only medicines (HOMs) to community pharmacies (CPs). This study aimed to measure the value generated by the intervention of CP in the dispensing of HOM. METHODS A single-arm, before-and-after study with 3-month follow-up was conducted enrolling a randomly selected sample of patients or caregivers with at least 1 dispensation of HOM through CP. Data were collected by telephone interview. Main outcomes were patients' self-reported adherence (Measure Treatment Adherence), health-related quality of life (EQ-5D 3-Level), satisfaction with the service, and costs related to HOM access. RESULTS Overall 603 subjects were recruited to participate in the study (males 50.6%) with mean 55 years old (SD = 16). The already high mean adherence score to therapy improved significantly (P < .0001), and no statistically significant change (P > .5757) was found in the mean EQ-5D score between baseline (0.7 ± 0.3) and 3-month follow-up (0.8 ± 0.3). Annual savings account for €262.1/person, arising from travel expenses and absenteeism reduction. Participants reported a significant increase in satisfaction levels in all evaluated domains-pharmacist's availability, opening hours, waiting time, privacy conditions, and overall experience. CONCLUSIONS Changing the dispense setting to CP may promote better access and satisfaction. Moreover, it ensures the persistence of treatments, promotes savings for citizens, and reduces the burden of healthcare services, representing a crucial public health measure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo Murteira
- Centre for Health Evaluation & Research/Infosaúde, National Association of Pharmacies, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Sónia Romano
- Centre for Health Evaluation & Research/Infosaúde, National Association of Pharmacies, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Inês Teixeira
- Centre for Health Evaluation & Research/Infosaúde, National Association of Pharmacies, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Carolina Bulhosa
- Centre for Health Evaluation & Research/Infosaúde, National Association of Pharmacies, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Sérgio Sousa
- Centre for Health Evaluation & Research/Infosaúde, National Association of Pharmacies, Lisbon, Portugal
| | | | | | | | - António Teixeira Rodrigues
- Centre for Health Evaluation & Research/Infosaúde, National Association of Pharmacies, Lisbon, Portugal; Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal; ICVS/3Bs PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal.
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Xin TY, Rajiah K, Maharajan MK. Emergency Preparedness for the COVID-19 Pandemic: Social Determinants Predicting the Community Pharmacists’ Preparedness and Perceived Response in Malaysia. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19148762. [PMID: 35886614 PMCID: PMC9315557 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19148762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2022] [Revised: 05/30/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Background: Pandemic preparedness of healthcare providers helps to mitigate future threats such as spread and fatality rates, as well as the management of the disease. Pharmacists are key partners with public health agencies, and the role of community pharmacists is becoming increasingly recognised in this COVID-19 pandemic. The study aimed to explore the emergency preparedness of community pharmacists (CPs) for COVID-19. Methods: A cross-sectional study was performed among community pharmacists using cluster sampling followed by convenient sampling. A self-administered questionnaire was formulated using references from the previous literature and the WHO preparedness checklist. Descriptive analysis was undertaken for the participants’ socio-demographic characteristics. All the data collected were entered into the Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 24 (SPSS V.24), (IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 24.0. Armonk, NY: IBM Corp.) for analysis. Results: Most of the CPs had five or fewer years of practice experience, and they had all the mandatory information relating to the needs of their communities regarding the disease. The participants knew where to acquire these resources whenever needed. They were able to recognise the signs and symptoms of the disease. Most participants felt that they were confident to provide patient education and carry out their duties during these challenging times. There was a strong position correlation between preparedness and the perceived response of the participants. Conclusion: The community pharmacists in Malaysia are prepared enough for COVID-19 pandemic management and perceive that they can respond during any unprecedented situations, such as COVID-19. Community pharmacists were aware of the challenges that they need to face in their community regarding COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tan Yu Xin
- Master in Pharmacy Practice, School of Postgraduate Studies, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur 57000, Malaysia;
| | - Kingston Rajiah
- GITAM School of Pharmacy, GITAM Deemed University, Hyderabad 502329, India
- Correspondence: (K.R.); (M.K.M.)
| | - Mari Kannan Maharajan
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, School of Pharmacy, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur 57000, Malaysia
- School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham Malaysia, Selangor 43500, Malaysia
- Correspondence: (K.R.); (M.K.M.)
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Young N, Tokumaru S, Goo R. Training Future Pharmacists to Optimize the Healthcare Workforce. HAWAI'I JOURNAL OF HEALTH & SOCIAL WELFARE 2022; 81:28-30. [PMID: 35495074 PMCID: PMC9036450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Many efforts are taking place to improve the quality of healthcare and reduce healthcare cost. Pharmacists play a key role in optimizing the healthcare workforce, and colleges of pharmacy are adapting to this need by emphasizing skills needed to improve quality health measures, interprofessional collaboration and communication, and supplying quality drug information. The University of Hawai'i at Hilo Daniel K. Inouye College of Pharmacy has incorporated additional pharmacy practice experience electives to teach pharmacy students to analyze and optimize workflow, identify high-risk patients in need of intervention, and work collaboratively with providers to decrease patient burden. The pharmacy curriculum has also increased the number of interprofessional educational events for enhancing interprofessional collaboration and communication, including in a telehealth setting. Furthermore, the college of pharmacy has increased the number of drug information assignments and practical exams to increase competency and the speed of providing quality, evidence-based drug information to providers. This article presents on overview of the health care workforce needs and examples of the increased efforts to train future pharmacists in Hawai'i to improve healthcare access and quality of patient care, as well as decrease healthcare costs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Young
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, The Daniel K. Inouye College of Pharmacy, University of Hawai‘i at Hilo; Hilo, HI
| | - Sheri Tokumaru
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, The Daniel K. Inouye College of Pharmacy, University of Hawai‘i at Hilo; Hilo, HI
| | - Roy Goo
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, The Daniel K. Inouye College of Pharmacy, University of Hawai‘i at Hilo; Hilo, HI
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Mustafa ZU, Salman M, Jamal I, Kanwal M, Riaz MB, Hasan SS, Khan AH. A pharmacist-led educational intervention to improve nebulization-related knowledge and practices of nursing staff: a pre–post interventional study from Pakistan. DRUGS & THERAPY PERSPECTIVES 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s40267-022-00910-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Dalton K, Connery C, Murphy K, O'Neill D. Pharmacists' views on the impact of the falsified medicines directive on community pharmacies: A cross-sectional survey. EXPLORATORY RESEARCH IN CLINICAL AND SOCIAL PHARMACY 2022; 5:100127. [PMID: 35478525 PMCID: PMC9030319 DOI: 10.1016/j.rcsop.2022.100127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Revised: 02/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The Falsified Medicines Directive (FMD) was implemented to minimise the circulation of falsified medicines in the legal pharmaceutical supply chain. Whilst pharmacists are involved in the final step of the FMD requirements with the decommissioning of medicines at the point of supply to patients, limited research has been conducted to investigate the impact of fulfilling these requirements on the relevant stakeholders. Objective To examine community pharmacists' views on how the FMD has affected their practice. Methods An online survey was disseminated via email in June 2020 to pharmacists in Ireland (n = 4727), who were invited to participate if practising full time or part time in community pharmacies. Quantitative data were captured through multiple option and Likert-scale questions, and analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Qualitative data were captured by use of a free-text box, with the open comments analysed thematically. Results In total, 618 valid responses were received (13.1% response rate). Most perceived that FMD requirements increased waiting times for patients (82%) and reduced time interacting with patients (65%). Only 28% agreed/strongly agreed that the introduction of the FMD legislation improves patient safety. In the open comments, the need for medicine authentication was acknowledged, but it was believed that this should be the wholesalers' responsibility, not pharmacists' responsibility. The additional step of medicines decommissioning was viewed as a time-consuming distraction to clinical checks that increased the risk for error. Pharmacists complained that they were not remunerated for the lost staff productivity or the additional software and equipment costs. Many pharmacists felt that the increased workload was disproportionate to the small risk of patients receiving falsified medicines. Conclusions Key stakeholder engagement is required to optimise the implementation and integration of the FMD procedures into community pharmacy practice with minimal impact on dispensing and without compromising patient care. The Falsified Medicines Directive procedures have disrupted pharmacists' workflow. They distract from clinical checks and reduce time interacting with patients. Many believed that patient safety has been negatively impacted. Pharmacists experienced frustration with software and hardware problems. Potential benefits are not being capitalised on to offset the increased workload.
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Hope DL, Campbell C. Sustainability via PebblePad digitization of pharmacy practice resources. CURRENTS IN PHARMACY TEACHING & LEARNING 2022; 14:173-181. [PMID: 35190159 DOI: 10.1016/j.cptl.2021.11.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2021] [Revised: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/28/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Digitization of learning and teaching resources allows for paper-free, digitally-enabled approaches to learning. While PebblePad is well recognized as an electronic portfolio platform, this study aimed to evaluate PebblePad for delivery of foundational workshop materials to provide sustainable and ongoing student access. METHODS From 2017, all workshops in a foundational pharmacy practice course were transferred from a paper-based manual to a modular digitized format hosted in PebblePad. An electronic survey tool assessed students' experiences with the platform. The voluntary and anonymous survey sought participant opinions on use, usability, ways of using, and reflection on using PebblePad on a five-point Likert-type scale (strongly disagree to strongly agree). Participants were asked to identify techniques they used to become familiar with PebblePad and the ways in which they used the platform. RESULTS From 2017 to 2019, 81 (45.3%) of 179 second-year pharmacy students participated in the research. Students most strongly agreed with statements related to comfort with online technologies for learning (n = 46/80, 57.5%), ease of use of PebblePad (n = 41/80, 51.3%), and having sufficient support from teaching staff (n = 39/78, 50%). The primary technique for becoming familiar with PebblePad was individual guidance from the teacher. The main use was to complete required workbook templates. Free-text comments demonstrated overwhelming support for PebblePad used in this teaching context. CONCLUSIONS PebblePad provided a valuable and sustainable platform for hosting digitized foundational pharmacy practice workshop resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denise L Hope
- School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, Griffith University, Clinical Sciences 2 G16_3.26, Gold Coast Campus, QLD 4222, Australia.
| | - Chris Campbell
- Learning Futures/Griffith Online, Griffith University, Nathan Campus, QLD, Australia
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Wang X, Yao X, Jia X, Shi X, Hao J, Yang Y, Liu G, Zhang X, Du S, Yin Z. A qualitative study on the working experiences of clinical pharmacists in fighting against COVID-19. BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:28. [PMID: 34986824 PMCID: PMC8728479 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-021-07419-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has overwhelmed healthcare systems across the world. Along with the medical team, clinical pharmacists played a significant role during the public health emergency of COVID-19. This study aimed to explore the working experience of clinical pharmacists and provide reference for first-line clinical pharmacists to prepare for fighting against COVID-19. METHODS A qualitative study based on descriptive phenomenology was employed with face-to-face and audio-recorded interviews to study the working experience of 13 clinical pharmacists (including two clinical nutritional pharmacists). All interviews were transcribed verbatim, and the interview data were analyzed thematically using NVivo software. RESULTS Four themes emerged from interview data, including roles of clinical pharmacists, working experiences of clinical pharmacists, psychological feelings of clinical pharmacists, and career expectations of clinical pharmacists. CONCLUSIONS The results contributed to a deeper understanding of the clinical pharmacists' work experiences in COVID-19 and offered guidance to better prepare clinical pharmacists in participating in a public health crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojuan Wang
- Department of pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Xiali Yao
- Department of pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Xuedong Jia
- Department of pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Xiangfen Shi
- Department of pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Jie Hao
- Department of pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Yantao Yang
- Department of pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Gang Liu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Xiaojian Zhang
- Department of pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
| | - Shuzhang Du
- Department of pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Zhao Yin
- Department of pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
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Boyacı AÇ, Şişman A. Pandemic hospital site selection: a GIS-based MCDM approach employing Pythagorean fuzzy sets. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:1985-1997. [PMID: 34357491 PMCID: PMC8342988 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-15703-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/24/2021] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 poses many challenges for hospitals around the world. Each country attempts to solve the problems in its hospitals using different methods. In Turkey, two pandemic hospitals were built in İstanbul, the most crowded province. In addition, some hospitals were designated as pandemic hospitals. This study focuses on the methods used for site selection for a pandemic hospital in Atakum, a district of Samsun City, Turkey. As a solution to the problem, initially, spatial analysis was performed using GIS to produce maps based on seven criteria obtained from the insight of an expert team. Analytic hierarchy process (AHP) augmented by interval-valued Pythagorean fuzzy numbers (PFNs) was then used to determine weights for the criteria. Distance to transportation network was the most important criterion influencing the selection process and the least significant one was the distance to fire stations. Based on the criteria weights, and five rules specified by the expert team, 13 suitable locations for a pandemic hospital were determined using GIS. The technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) method was used to determine the final ranking of 13 alternative locations (A1-A13). A10 was identified as the most appropriate site and A11 as the least appropriate site for a pandemic hospital. Finally, sensitivity analysis was performed to investigate how changes in weight values of the criteria affect the ranking of the alternatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aslı Çalış Boyacı
- Department of Industrial Engineering, Ondokuz Mayıs University, 55139, Samsun, Turkey.
| | - Aziz Şişman
- Department of Geomatics Engineering, Ondokuz Mayıs University, 55139, Samsun, Turkey
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Abu-Farha R, Alzoubi KH, Rizik M, Karout S, Itani R, Mukattash T, Alefishat E. Public Perceptions About Home Delivery of Medication Service and Factors Associated with the Utilization of This Service. Patient Prefer Adherence 2022; 16:2259-2269. [PMID: 36034332 PMCID: PMC9416318 DOI: 10.2147/ppa.s377558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Home medication delivery service is a major service for the public. It reduces overcrowding and unnecessary visits to health centers. This study aims to investigate the public perception of home delivery of medication service in Jordan and evaluate factors affecting the use of this service. METHODS The study was conducted in March 2022 using an online survey. Participants were asked to fill out a validated questionnaire to evaluate their perception of home delivery of medication service. RESULTS Among the 1032 adult participated in this study, the majority reported that they had heard of home delivery of medication service (n = 832, 80.6%). However, only 30.9% of them have used this service before. Results showed that 71.4% of the participants (n = 737) believe that home delivery of medication service is more convenient and accessible than in-store drug refill. In addition, 65.6% of the participants (n = 677) believed that home delivery of medication service is suitable only for refill-prescription drugs (65.0%). The main pros of the service as perceived by the study participants were to serve sick patients, elderly, and disabled people (n = 822, 79.7%). In contrast, the inability of patients to build a professional relationship with pharmacists using home delivery of medications service was the most perceived con of this service (n = 627, 60.8%). Finally, regression analysis revealed that older participants, those with chronic diseases, and those who visit community pharmacies two times or more per month revealed higher use of the service (P = <0.05). CONCLUSION This study has shown that most participants showed positive perceptions toward the home delivery of medication services. However, participants believed that this service may decrease pharmacist's patient contact time, thus affecting the quality of medication counseling. More comprehensive future studies are necessary to examine the financial aspects of such a service and its associated drawbacks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rana Abu-Farha
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Applied Science Private University, Amman, 11931, Jordan
| | - Karem H Alzoubi
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Pharmacotherapeutics, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, 22110, Jordan
| | - Mai Rizik
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Applied Science Private University, Amman, 11931, Jordan
| | - Samar Karout
- Pharmacy Practice Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beirut Arab University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Rania Itani
- Pharmacy Practice Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beirut Arab University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Tareq Mukattash
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, 22110, Jordan
| | - Eman Alefishat
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine and Health Science, Khalifa University of Science and Technology, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Center for Biotechnology, Khalifa University of Science and Technology, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Department Biopharmaceutics and Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
- Correspondence: Eman Alefishat, Email
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