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Alshehri AM, Alqahtani WH, Moaili AA, Almogbel YS, Almalki ZS, Alahmari AK, Albassam AA, Ahmed NJ. An analysis of the intention of female pharmacy students to work in community pharmacy settings in Saudi Arabia using the theory of planned behavior. Saudi Pharm J 2024; 32:101996. [PMID: 38414782 PMCID: PMC10897891 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsps.2024.101996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective This study aimed to determine the intention of female Saudi pharmacy students to work in community pharmacies and the factors associated with this intention. Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted between April 2022 and June 2022 and included female students from pharmacy colleges in Saudi Arabia. The survey was created based on the Theory of Planned Behavior. It included items that measure student intentions, attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control regarding working in community pharmacies in Saudi Arabia. The study also included items that assessed sociodemographic characteristics, pharmacy program degrees, training, and job preferences of students. Results A total of 407 participants completed the survey. The average age was 21.8 (±1.6) years, and most participants were Saudi nationals (97.79 %). The intention of participants to work in community pharmacies after graduation was low (mean = 3.2 ± 1.8; range: 1-7). Slightly positive attitudes toward working in a community pharmacy after graduation were revealed as participants showed an overall attitude mean of 4.5 ± 1.6 (range: 1-7). Furthermore, the participants perceived a low social pressure toward working in a community pharmacy after graduation (mean of 3.3 ± 1.9; range: 1-7). The intention of female pharmacy students to work in community pharmacies was significantly predicted by attitudes (p-value < 0.0001), perceived behavioral control (p-value = 0.0017), nationality (p-value = 0.0151), residence in the Saudi Arabian region (p-value = 0.0013), monthly income (p-value = 0.0231), pharmacy degree program (p-value = 0.0035), training received in community pharmacies (p-value = 0.0145), had a relative working in a community pharmacy (p-value = 0.0257), and preference to work in community pharmacies after graduation (p-value = 0.0001). Conclusion Female pharmacy students in Saudi Arabia had a low intention to work in community pharmacies, a positive attitude toward working in community pharmacies, and perceived no social pressure to work in them. A positive attitude and behavioral perception of control toward working in community pharmacies were demonstrated among pharmacy students who study at a university outside Riyadh, undertaking a bachelor's degree in pharmacy, have a monthly income higher than 5000 Saudi riyals (USD 1,333.3), previously received training in community pharmacies, having a relative working in a community pharmacy, prefer to work in community pharmacies after graduation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed M Alshehri
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Alkarj, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Wafa H Alqahtani
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Alkarj, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Aljoharah A Moaili
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Alkarj, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Yasser S Almogbel
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, Buraidah 51452, Qassim, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ziyad S Almalki
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Alkarj, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah K Alahmari
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Alkarj, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed A Albassam
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Alkarj, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nehad J Ahmed
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Alkarj, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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Russell DM, Meyerson BE, Mahoney AN, Garnett I, Ferrell C, Newgass K, Agley JD, Crosby RA, Bentele KG, Vadiei N, Frank D, Linde-Krieger LB. Come back when you're infected: pharmacy access to sterile syringes in an Arizona Secret Shopper Study, 2023. Harm Reduct J 2024; 21:49. [PMID: 38388463 PMCID: PMC10885601 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-024-00943-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pharmacies are critical healthcare partners in community efforts to eliminate bloodborne illnesses. Pharmacy sale of sterile syringes is central to this effort. METHODS A mixed methods "secret shopper" syringe purchase study was conducted in the fall of 2022 with 38 community pharmacies in Maricopa and Pima Counties, Arizona. Pharmacies were geomapped to within 2 miles of areas identified as having a potentially high volume of illicit drug commerce. Daytime venue sampling was used whereby separate investigators with lived/living drug use experience attempted to purchase syringes without a prescription. Investigator response when prompted for purchase rationale was "to protect myself from HIV and hepatitis C." A 24-item instrument measured sales outcome, pharmacy staff interaction (hostile/neutral/friendly), and the buyer's subjective experience. RESULTS Only 24.6% (n = 28) of 114 purchase attempts across the 38 pharmacies resulted in syringe sale. Less than one quarter (21.1%) of pharmacies always sold, while 44.7% never sold. Independent and food store pharmacies tended not to sell syringes. There emerged distinct pharmacy staff interactions characterized by body language, customer query, normalization or othering response, response to purchase request and closure. Pharmacy discretion and pharmacy policy not to sell syringes without a prescription limited sterile syringe access. Investigators reported frequent and adverse emotional impact due to pharmacy staff negative and stigmatizing interactions. CONCLUSIONS Pharmacies miss opportunities to advance efforts to eliminate bloodborne infections by stringent no-sale policy and discretion about syringe sale. State regulatory policy facilitating pharmacy syringe sales, limiting pharmacist discretion for syringe sales, and targeting pharmacy-staff level education may help advance the achievement of public health goals to eliminate bloodborne infections in Arizona.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle M Russell
- Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
- Harm Reduction Research Lab, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Tucson, Tucson, AZ, USA
- Drug Policy Research and Advocacy Board (DPRAB), University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Beth E Meyerson
- Harm Reduction Research Lab, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Tucson, Tucson, AZ, USA.
- Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA.
- Center for Comprehensive Pain and Addiction, University of Arizona Health Sciences, Tucson, AZ, USA.
| | - Arlene N Mahoney
- Harm Reduction Research Lab, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Tucson, Tucson, AZ, USA
- Southwest Recovery Alliance, Phoenix, AZ, USA
- Drug Policy Research and Advocacy Board (DPRAB), University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Irene Garnett
- Harm Reduction Research Lab, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Tucson, Tucson, AZ, USA
- Drug Policy Research and Advocacy Board (DPRAB), University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
- Center for Comprehensive Pain and Addiction, University of Arizona Health Sciences, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Chris Ferrell
- Drug Policy Research and Advocacy Board (DPRAB), University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
- CAN Community Health, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Kylee Newgass
- Southwest Recovery Alliance, Phoenix, AZ, USA
- Drug Policy Research and Advocacy Board (DPRAB), University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Jon D Agley
- Harm Reduction Research Lab, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Tucson, Tucson, AZ, USA
- Indiana University School of Public Health-Bloomington, Bloomington, IN, USA
| | - Richard A Crosby
- Harm Reduction Research Lab, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Tucson, Tucson, AZ, USA
- University of Kentucky College of Public Health, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Keith G Bentele
- Harm Reduction Research Lab, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Tucson, Tucson, AZ, USA
- Southwest Institute for Research On Women, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Nina Vadiei
- Harm Reduction Research Lab, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Tucson, Tucson, AZ, USA
- College of Pharmacy, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - David Frank
- Harm Reduction Research Lab, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Tucson, Tucson, AZ, USA
- School of Global Public Health, New York University, New York, USA
| | - Linnea B Linde-Krieger
- Harm Reduction Research Lab, University of Arizona College of Medicine-Tucson, Tucson, AZ, USA
- Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
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Koot C, Rook M, Pols PAM, van den Bemt PMLA, Becker ML. A quality improvement study on the effect of electronic transmission of a basic discharge medication report on medication discrepancies in patients discharged from the hospital. Int J Clin Pharm 2024; 46:131-140. [PMID: 37934347 DOI: 10.1007/s11096-023-01650-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Medication discrepancies can occur in transitions of care because of a lack of communication between hospitals and community pharmacies. These discrepancies can lead to preventable adverse drug events (ADEs). AIM To investigate the effect of electronic transmission of the basic discharge medication report on unintentional medication discrepancies observed between this report and the 28-day post-discharge status in the community pharmacy. METHOD The study took place in a Dutch teaching hospital and 8 community pharmacies. A quality improvement study with a nonrandomized, historically controlled intervention design was performed. The intervention consisted of the electronic transmission of a basic discharge medication report to the community pharmacies. Unintentional medication discrepancies were identified by comparing the basic discharge medication report to the 28-day post-discharge medication record in community pharmacies. The main outcome measure was the proportion of drugs with one or more unintentional discrepancies compared between the historical control group and intervention group, using the chi-square test. Secondary outcome measure was the proportion of patients with one or more unintentional discrepancies. RESULTS The participants used a total of 1078 drugs in the control group and 862 in the intervention group. The intervention significantly reduced the proportion of drugs with an unintentional discrepancy from 230 out of 1078 in the control group (21.3%) to 149 out of 862 drugs in the intervention group (17.3%; p = 0.025). At patient level, a non-significant increase was seen (62.4-78.8%; p = 0.41). CONCLUSION The electronic transmission of the basic discharge medication report reduced the proportion of drugs with an unintentional discrepancy after discharge, but not the proportion of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Celine Koot
- Pharmacy Foundation of Haarlem Hospitals, Boerhaavelaan 24, 2035 RC, Haarlem, The Netherlands
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Spaarne Gasthuis Hospital, Haarlem, The Netherlands
| | - Marion Rook
- Pharmacy Foundation of Haarlem Hospitals, Boerhaavelaan 24, 2035 RC, Haarlem, The Netherlands
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Spaarne Gasthuis Hospital, Haarlem, The Netherlands
| | | | - Patricia M L A van den Bemt
- University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Matthijs L Becker
- Pharmacy Foundation of Haarlem Hospitals, Boerhaavelaan 24, 2035 RC, Haarlem, The Netherlands.
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Spaarne Gasthuis Hospital, Haarlem, The Netherlands.
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Olasupo J, Taiwo F, Aje A, Fakeye TO. Knowledge and dispensing practice of community pharmacists towards antipsychotic medicines in a Nigerian metropolitan city - a cross-sectional study. BMC Health Serv Res 2023; 23:1450. [PMID: 38129843 PMCID: PMC10740283 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-023-10480-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Antipsychotic drugs are prescription-only-medications which require valid prescriptions before it can be obtained from a pharmacy. On the other hand, community pharmacists in developing countries have sometimes been implicated in over-the-counter dispensing of prescription-only-medications. OBJECTIVE This study investigated the accessibility of antipsychotic drugs without prescriptions from community pharmacies, and the factors responsible for the over-the-counter dispensing of antipsychotics by community pharmacists. METHODS An exploratory cross-sectional mixed method survey design using pretested structured questionnaires among 119 community pharmacists, simulated patients in 119 community pharmacies, and one-on-one in-depth interview among eleven (11) community pharmacist-owners/superintendent pharmacists were utilized for data collection. The knowledge of the pharmacists on antipsychotics including classification, side effects, and dispensing practices were explored. Qualitative data was analyzed with thematic analysis, while quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics. RESULTS Majority of the community pharmacists (87.4%) showed good knowledge of antipsychotics as it relates to the different classes and the side effects peculiar to each class. Antipsychotic medications were dispensed by 85 (71.4%) of community pharmacists without a prescription. One-on-one in-depth interview sessions with community pharmacist owners/superintendent pharmacists demonstrated that community pharmacists are knowledgeable about antipsychotics and their side effects. Reasons given for dispensing this class of drugs without prescription included emergencies, and knowledge of the person as being on the drugs long-term. About 4% pharmacists were adamant on dispensing only with prescription. CONCLUSION Community pharmacists in Ibadan metropolis readily dispense antipsychotics without valid prescriptions despite having an optimal knowledge about the negative implications of doing so. This could be due to weak legislation and regulation of drug laws. There is a need for more stringent regulations as well as adequate sensitization about the negative effects of inappropriate dispensing of prescription-only-medications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Olasupo
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Administration, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Faith Taiwo
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Administration, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Akinniyi Aje
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Administration, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Titilayo O Fakeye
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Administration, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria.
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Curran G, Mosley C, Gamble A, Painter J, Ounpraseuth S, Brewer NT, Teeter B, Smith M, Halladay J, Hughes T, Shepherd JG, Hastings T, Simpson K, Carpenter D. Addressing COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in rural community pharmacies: a protocol for a stepped wedge randomized clinical trial. Implement Sci 2023; 18:72. [PMID: 38110979 PMCID: PMC10726603 DOI: 10.1186/s13012-023-01327-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Uptake of COVID-19 vaccines remains problematically low in the USA, especially in rural areas. COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy is associated with lower uptake, which translates to higher susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 variants in communities where vaccination coverage is low. Because community pharmacists are among the most accessible and trusted health professionals in rural areas, this randomized clinical trial will examine implementation strategies to support rural pharmacists in delivering an adapted evidence-based intervention to reduce COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy. METHODS We will use an incomplete stepped wedge trial design in which we will randomize 30 rural pharmacies (unit of analysis) to determine the effectiveness and incremental cost-effectiveness of a standard implementation approach (consisting of online training that describes the vaccine hesitancy intervention, live webinar, and resource website) compared to adding on a virtual facilitation approach (provided by a trained facilitator in support of the delivery of the vaccine hesitancy counseling intervention by pharmacists). The intervention (ASORT) has been adapted from an evidence-based vaccine communication intervention for HPV vaccines through a partnership with rural pharmacies in a practice-based research network in seven southern US states. ASORT teaches pharmacists how to identify persons eligible for COVID-19 vaccination (including a booster), solicit and address vaccine concerns in a non-confrontational way, recommend the vaccine, and repeat the steps later if needed. The primary trial outcome is fidelity to the ASORT intervention, which will be determined through ratings of recordings of pharmacists delivering the intervention. The secondary outcome is the effectiveness of the intervention, determined by rates of patients who agree to be vaccinated after receiving the intervention. Other secondary outcomes include feasibility, acceptability, adoption, reach, and cost. Cost-effectiveness and budget impact analyses will be conducted to maximize the potential for future dissemination and sustainability. Mixed methods will provide triangulation, expansion, and explanation of quantitative findings. DISCUSSION This trial contributes to a growing evidence base on vaccine hesitancy interventions and virtual-only facilitation of evidenced-based practices in community health settings. The trial will provide the first estimate of the relative value of different implementation strategies in pharmacy settings. TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT05926544 (clinicaltrials.gov); 07/03/2023.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geoffrey Curran
- Center for Implementation Research, Department of Pharmacy Practice, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA.
| | - Cynthia Mosley
- Center for Implementation Research, Department of Pharmacy Practice, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Abigail Gamble
- Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Jacob Painter
- Pharmaceutical Evaluation and Policy, Department of Pharmacy Practice, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Songthip Ounpraseuth
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Noel T Brewer
- Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Ben Teeter
- Center for Implementation Research, Department of Pharmacy Practice, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Megan Smith
- Center for Implementation Research, Department of Pharmacy Practice, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Jacquie Halladay
- Department of Family Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- The Cecil G. Sheps Center for Health Services Research, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Tamera Hughes
- Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - J Greene Shepherd
- Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Tessa Hastings
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Outcomes Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Kit Simpson
- Department of Health Care Leadership and Management, College of Health Professions, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
- Department of Public Health Science, College of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Delesha Carpenter
- Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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Rodilla E, Adell M, Baixauli V, Bellver O, Castillo L, Centelles S, Hernández R, Martínez S, Perseguer Z, Prats R, Ruiz D, Salar L, Climent M. Value of estimating pulse wave velocity compared to SCORE in cardiovascular risk stratification in community pharmacies. Med Clin (Barc) 2023; 161:463-469. [PMID: 37735046 DOI: 10.1016/j.medcli.2023.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Arterial stiffness is considered to be an intermediate marker with independent prognostic value. The objective of this study is to assess whether the estimation of arterial stiffness can improve CV risk stratification compared to SCORE in patients at community pharmacies. METHODS Observational prospective epidemiological study in which consecutive individuals entering a participating Community Pharmacy are offered a voluntary measurement of blood pressure and estimation of pulse wave velocity by oscillometry (AGEDIO, IEM®) to stratify their CV risk according to SCORE compared to the use of arterial stiffness. RESULTS After nine months of recruitment, data from 923 patients (570 women, 353 men) were collected. 16/122 (13.1%) patients under 40 years and 72/364 (19.8%) over 65 years of age presented pathological stiffness and could be classified as high-risk, even though being out of the age-range of SCORE. Of the 437 (47.3%) patients who were susceptible to calculating SCORE, 42/437 patients (9.6%) presented pathological arterial stiffness. Cholesterol values were available in 281 patients (64.3%). Among them, according to SCORE, only 6 (2.1%) fell into the high-risk category. CONCLUSIONS More than half of the subjects who randomly enter a community pharmacy had ages that make it impossible to calculate the CV risk by SCORE. Among them, arterial damage was detected in 18.1%. Of the other half, 9.6% presented arterial damage and, therefore, high CV risk, when SCORE only detected it in 2.1%. Therefore, estimating arterial stiffness in community pharmacies markedly improves detection of high CV risk compared to SCORE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrique Rodilla
- Internal Medicine Department, Hypertension and Vascular Risk Unit, Hospital Universitario de Sagunto, Sagunto, Spain; Department of Medicine, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, Valencia, Spain.
| | - Manuel Adell
- Sociedad Española de Farmacia Clínica, Familiar y Comunitaria, Comunidad Valenciana, SEFAC-CV, Spain
| | - Vicente Baixauli
- Sociedad Española de Farmacia Clínica, Familiar y Comunitaria, Comunidad Valenciana, SEFAC-CV, Spain
| | - Otón Bellver
- Sociedad Española de Farmacia Clínica, Familiar y Comunitaria, Comunidad Valenciana, SEFAC-CV, Spain
| | - Lidón Castillo
- Sociedad Española de Farmacia Clínica, Familiar y Comunitaria, Comunidad Valenciana, SEFAC-CV, Spain
| | - Santiago Centelles
- Sociedad Española de Farmacia Clínica, Familiar y Comunitaria, Comunidad Valenciana, SEFAC-CV, Spain
| | - Rosario Hernández
- Sociedad Española de Farmacia Clínica, Familiar y Comunitaria, Comunidad Valenciana, SEFAC-CV, Spain
| | - Sara Martínez
- Sociedad Española de Farmacia Clínica, Familiar y Comunitaria, Comunidad Valenciana, SEFAC-CV, Spain
| | - Zeneida Perseguer
- Sociedad Española de Farmacia Clínica, Familiar y Comunitaria, Comunidad Valenciana, SEFAC-CV, Spain
| | - Rosa Prats
- Sociedad Española de Farmacia Clínica, Familiar y Comunitaria, Comunidad Valenciana, SEFAC-CV, Spain
| | - Desiré Ruiz
- Sociedad Española de Farmacia Clínica, Familiar y Comunitaria, Comunidad Valenciana, SEFAC-CV, Spain
| | - Luis Salar
- Sociedad Española de Farmacia Clínica, Familiar y Comunitaria, Comunidad Valenciana, SEFAC-CV, Spain
| | - Maite Climent
- Sociedad Española de Farmacia Clínica, Familiar y Comunitaria, Comunidad Valenciana, SEFAC-CV, Spain
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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. Explor Res Clin Soc Pharm 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] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [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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Aubert BA, Barker JR, Beaton C, Gonzalez PA, Ghalambor-Dezfuli H, O'Donnell D, Sears K, Yu B. Investigating the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the occurrence of medication incidents in Canadian community pharmacies. Explor Res Clin Soc Pharm 2023; 12:100379. [PMID: 38145238 PMCID: PMC10746502 DOI: 10.1016/j.rcsop.2023.100379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 11/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023] Open
Abstract
As the COVID-19 pandemic unfolded, community pharmacies adapted rapidly to broaden and adjust the services they were providing to patients, while coping with severe pressure on supply chains and constrained social interactions. This study investigates whether these events had an impact on the medication incidents reported by pharmacists. Results indicate that Canadian pharmacies were able to sustain such stress while maintaining comparable safety levels. At the same time, it appears that some risk factors that were either ignored or not meaningful in the past started to be reported, suggesting that community pharmacists are now aware of a larger set of contributing factors that can lead to medication incidents, notably for medication incidents that can lead to harm.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Kim Sears
- School of Nursing, Queen's University, Canada
| | - Bo Yu
- Rowe School of Business, Dalhousie University, Canada
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Christopher CM, Blebil AQ, Bhuvan KC, Alex D, Mohamed Ibrahim MI, Ismail N, Cheong Wing Loong M. Medication use problems and factors affecting older adults in primary healthcare. Res Social Adm Pharm 2023; 19:1520-1530. [PMID: 37574369 DOI: 10.1016/j.sapharm.2023.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND As the largest demographic group utilizing primary healthcare facilities, older adults often face the challenge of managing multiple chronic illnesses, leading to numerous medications. OBJECTIVE The present study aims to assess medication use problems among older adults and explore the factors affecting them in primary healthcare settings. METHODS A mixed-method study was conducted to establish a baseline understanding of the perspectives and challenges faced by older adults, with regards to medication use. Translated Medication Use Questionnaire (MedUseQ), a patient-centered tool, was distributed to older adults above 60 in primary healthcare settings to assess their frequency of problems related to medication use. Fifteen semi-structured interviews were conducted to explore this topic in depth. Descriptive and inferential analyses were conducted with quantitative data. Interviews were transcribed verbatim, and thematic analysis was conducted. Quantitative and qualitative findings data were triangulated. RESULTS The study involved 393 participants. The most common problems with regards to medication use were polypharmacy (55.4%), administration difficulties (48.4%), limited awareness about adverse drug events (47.3%), issues with adherence (46.5%), and accessibility to primary healthcare (42.7%). Approximately 55% were satisfied with the older adult-centered medication use services by pharmacist and doctors. The qualitative findings showed that major factors affecting medication use were forgetfulness, language barriers, lack of awareness, transportation problems, long waiting times, and multiple visits to healthcare facilities. CONCLUSION The findings of this study reveal that a significant proportion, around 50%, of the older adult population face challenges with medication use in Penang. These difficulties mainly stem from medication administration, adherence, accessibility, polypharmacy, and inadequate medication knowledge. The qualitative analysis further highlighted several factors that contribute to such medication-related problems. Given the rapidly aging Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) population, it is essential to devise effective solutions and strategies to tackle medication use-related issues among older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ali Qais Blebil
- School of Pharmacy, Monash University Malaysia, Jalan Lagoon Selatan, Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia; Department of Pharmacy, Al Rafidain University College, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - K C Bhuvan
- School of Clinical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia; College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, Australia
| | - Deepa Alex
- Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, Jalan Lagoon Selatan, Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia; Department of Geriatrics and Healthy Living, KIMSHEALTH, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India
| | | | | | - Mark Cheong Wing Loong
- School of Pharmacy, Monash University Malaysia, Jalan Lagoon Selatan, Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
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Liyanage CK, Gunawardane M, Kumaradasa PP, Ranasinghe P, Jayakody RL, Galappatthy P. A national survey on registered products, availability, prices, and affordability of 100 essential medicines in community pharmacies across Sri Lanka. BMC Health Serv Res 2023; 23:1121. [PMID: 37858145 PMCID: PMC10585786 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-023-10137-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Availability of essential medicines that meet the expected quality standards, in appropriate dosage forms at affordable prices is a fundamental prerequisite to fulfill healthcare needs of given a population. This study assessed available products, prices and affordability of essential medicines (EM) in community pharmacies in Sri Lanka with comparison of registration status from the National Medicines Regulatory Authority(NMRA). METHODS A cross-sectional island-wide survey of 80 pharmacies was conducted according to World Health Organization and Health Action International Manual (WHO/HAI). Hundred medicines were selected from the global core list(n = 14), regional core list(n = 16) and the Sri Lanka Essential Medicine List (SL-EML) (n = 70) based on healthcare needs. Number of registered products in 2015 and 2021 were compared. FINDINGS Average availability was 85.4%(± 12.31) and availability was lowest in the Northern province (69.38 ± 21.18%)(p = 0.008). Availability between the state owned, franchise and privately owned pharmacies was not significantly different (p > 0.05). 89.4% medicines were affordable except for amiodarone, hydroxychloroquine, sitagliptin, soluble insulin, isophane insulin, losartan, levodopa carbidopa combination, clonazepam and ceftriaxone. The median price ratio (MPR) of 33.7% of medicines was less than 1 and MPR of 37.1% originator brands (OB) was over 3. Median number of generic brands in the market was 8(range 2-44), 9% of medicines had 20 or more products in the market and 72.7% medicines had more products available than the number registered in 2015. The average number of registered products were similar in 2015 (8.27) and 2021(7.59) (p = 0.15). CONCLUSION The overall availability of EMs in Sri Lanka was high in all categories of community pharmacies. Medicines were largely affordable and reasonably priced in 2015, although OBs were generally more expensive. Majority of medicines had more products in the market than the number of registered products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiranthi Kongala Liyanage
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo, 25 Kynsey Rd, Colombo, 00800, Sri Lanka.
| | - Mekala Gunawardane
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo, 25 Kynsey Rd, Colombo, 00800, Sri Lanka
| | | | - Priyanga Ranasinghe
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo, 25 Kynsey Rd, Colombo, 00800, Sri Lanka
| | - Raveendra Laal Jayakody
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo, 25 Kynsey Rd, Colombo, 00800, Sri Lanka
| | - Priyadarshani Galappatthy
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo, 25 Kynsey Rd, Colombo, 00800, Sri Lanka
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Zhou W, Wang J, Chen Q, Huang Z, Zhou N, Hu M. Assessment of the operation status of electronic prescription at community pharmacies in Chengdu, China: a simulated patient study. BMC Health Serv Res 2023; 23:920. [PMID: 37644463 PMCID: PMC10466720 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-023-09742-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Information and technologies relevant to eHealth have developed rapidly over the past two decades. Based on this, China piloted "Internet + " pattern and some regions piloted electronic prescription services to explore telepharmacy services. OBJECTIVE To describe the processes and assess the operation status of electronic prescription services mode for community pharmacies in China. METHODS The simulated patient methodology was used to conduct a cross-sectional study in 317 community pharmacies from six districts in Chengdu, China in 2019. Simulated patients expressed three levels of service demands based on scenario about acute upper respiratory tract infections to evaluate the recommendation strength of electronic prescription services and telepharmacy service in community pharmacies. The descriptive statistics was completed to obtain the characteristics of the visit process, student t-test and χ2 test (P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant) were used for inferential statistical analysis to determine differences in characteristics and degree of recommendation between pharmacies. RESULTS Three Hundred Seventeen record sheets were effectively collected. The third-party platform was recommended in 195 (61.5%) interactions. The main reason for not recommending is non-prescription dispensing of prescription drugs (27.1%). 90.3% interactions waited less than 1 min, the counseling duration was less than 5 min in all interactions, and most community pharmacies had good network conditions (81.5%). 97.4% remote physicians offered professional counseling, only 22.1% of the pharmacists provided medication advice. CONCLUSIONS The electronic prescription services mode for community pharmacies in Chengdu provides a convenient drug purchase process but remains some problems. For example, prescribing drugs without a prescription and services provided by pharmacists was poor, etc. The relevant supporting policies should be improved in future development process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenxin Zhou
- School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, No. 17, 3Rd Section, Renmin South Road, 610041, Chengdu, P.R. China
| | - Jing Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, No. 17, 3Rd Section, Renmin South Road, 610041, Chengdu, P.R. China
- Clinical Research Institute, the Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, 646000, Luzhou, P.R. China
| | - Qinmin Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, No. 17, 3Rd Section, Renmin South Road, 610041, Chengdu, P.R. China
| | - Zhen Huang
- Market Supervision Administration of Chengdu Municipality, 610041, Chengdu, P.R. China
| | - Naitong Zhou
- School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, No. 17, 3Rd Section, Renmin South Road, 610041, Chengdu, P.R. China.
| | - Ming Hu
- School of Pharmacy, Sichuan University, No. 17, 3Rd Section, Renmin South Road, 610041, Chengdu, P.R. China.
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Petrides M, Peletidi A, Petrou C, Nena E, Papavasili M, Constantinidis T, Kontogiorgis C. Exploring public knowledge and perceptions regarding per os OTC pain-relieving medications: the case of paracetamol (acetaminophen). J Pharm Policy Pract 2023; 16:93. [PMID: 37475043 PMCID: PMC10360319 DOI: 10.1186/s40545-023-00598-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Over-the-counter medications (OTC) are safe and effective when patients follow the patient's information leaflet (PIL) instructions and/or the instructions given by healthcare professionals (HCPs). However, OTC medications could be harmful and unsafe when individuals do not follow the given instructions and/or when their understanding about the proper use of OTC medications is incorrect. This study aimed to investigate the knowledge and perceptions of people regarding paracetamol use in the Republic of Cyprus. METHODS This cross-sectional study, which belongs to quantitative research methods, included participants visiting community pharmacies in the following three cities of the Republic of Cyprus: Nicosia, Limassol and Larnaca. Participation in the study was voluntary and anonymous. Participants responded to the survey-based questionnaire, which concerned their knowledge and views on paracetamol use. After the data collection, responses were tabulated and analysed statistically. RESULTS The original compound was shown to be more well-known compared to generics. A notable percentage of respondents-ranging between 13.0% (N = 49) and 29.8% (N = 112)-answered incorrectly that broadly used non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) contain paracetamol. Furthermore, a remarkable percentage of respondents (71.5%, N = 269 and 50.3%, N = 189, respectively) falsely believed that two widely used combination products in the market of Cyprus (Paracetamol and Hyoscine-N-butylbromide; Paracetamol and Codeine and Caffeine) did not contain paracetamol. A notable percentage of participants (27.6%, N = 100) believed that paracetamol causes low toxicity. More than a third of the respondents (40.2%, N = 149) drink alcohol together with or slightly after consuming paracetamol products. This viewpoint was linked with the participants' attitude towards consuming paracetamol medications after drinking alcohol (OR for consuming alcohol versus not consuming alcohol 0.100, 95% CI 0.044-0.225, p = 0.000). CONCLUSIONS To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study conducted in the Republic of Cyprus on this topic. Paracetamol is frequently consumed by individuals, both in its generic and original forms. However, the study showed that respondents often misperceive NSAIDs and paracetamol-containing medications. In addition, it is identified that there is a lack of education among people about the safe and effective use of paracetamol, namely, indications, potential side effects, maximum daily dose, alcohol consumption, and the potential risks of hepatotoxicity. The study contributed to the current published literature as it showed that there is a significant public health issue, for which appropriate measures can be established by the respective Authorities of Cyprus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Petrides
- Laboratory of Hygiene and Environmental Protection, Medical School, Democritus University of Thrace, Campus (Dragana) Building 5, 68100, Alexandroupolis, Greece
- Pharmacy Program, Department of Health Sciences, School of Life and Health Sciences, University of Nicosia, 2417, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Aliki Peletidi
- Pharmacy Program, Department of Health Sciences, School of Life and Health Sciences, University of Nicosia, 2417, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Christos Petrou
- Pharmacy Program, Department of Health Sciences, School of Life and Health Sciences, University of Nicosia, 2417, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Evangelia Nena
- Laboratory of Hygiene and Environmental Protection, Medical School, Democritus University of Thrace, Campus (Dragana) Building 5, 68100, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Maria Papavasili
- Pharmacy Program, Department of Health Sciences, School of Life and Health Sciences, University of Nicosia, 2417, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Theodoros Constantinidis
- Laboratory of Hygiene and Environmental Protection, Medical School, Democritus University of Thrace, Campus (Dragana) Building 5, 68100, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Christos Kontogiorgis
- Laboratory of Hygiene and Environmental Protection, Medical School, Democritus University of Thrace, Campus (Dragana) Building 5, 68100, Alexandroupolis, Greece.
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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. Explor Res Clin Soc Pharm 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] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [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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Lungfiel G, Mandlmeier F, Kunow C, Langer B. Oral emergency contraception practices of community pharmacies: a mystery caller study in the capital of Germany, Berlin. J Pharm Policy Pract 2023; 16:68. [PMID: 37237301 DOI: 10.1186/s40545-023-00565-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Germany, oral emergency contraception (EC) with the active ingredients levonorgestrel (LNG) and ulipristal acetate (UPA) is available as over-the-counter (OTC) medicine only from community pharmacies (CPs). Because of the window of effect, which is limited to only a few days, CPs have a great responsibility to provide rapid and unimpeded access, while also ensuring "adequate" counseling. The aim was-for the first time in Europe and thus also in Germany for the methodology used in this study-to investigate immediate availability, pricing, and aspects of counseling. METHODS Covert mystery calls were conducted in a random sample of CPs stratified by districts in the German capital Berlin. Each of the 263 CPs included was called once at random by one of two trained female student mystery callers. They simulated a product-based scenario for the UPA original ellaOne®, citing a contraceptive failure one day ago as the reason. RESULTS Of 257 successfully called CPs, UPA preparations were immediately available in 98.4% (253/257) and LNG preparations in 86.8% (184/212) of CPs. Prices for UPA preparations varied from €15.95 to €42.95 (∆ 169%; median €35.00 [interquartile range (IQR) €5.91]) and for LNG preparations from €10.60 to €32.49 (Δ 207%; median €22.00 [IQR €5.76]). Information about the correct different window of effect of UPA and LNG preparations was provided in 69.8% (127/182) of CPs. UPA preparations were recommended in 63.1% (111/176) and LNG preparations in 17.2% (30/174) of CPs. Information was provided on how to take them as soon as possible in 30.8% (44/143) of CPs and on how to use them after vomiting in 46.0% (64/139). CONCLUSIONS Berlin CPs support access through high immediate availability, especially to UPA preparations. However, access is hampered by high absolute price ranges of both UPA and LNG preparations, which could ideally be minimized by a comparison app. It is positive that CPs promote the benefits of UPA preparations by recommending them noticeably more often than LNG preparations. However, there are deficiencies in giving advice, so there is a need to raise awareness among pharmacy staff to ensure "adequate" counseling in advance over the phone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gwenda Lungfiel
- Department of Health, Nursing, Management, University of Applied Sciences Neubrandenburg, Neubrandenburg, Germany
| | - Franca Mandlmeier
- Department of Health, Nursing, Management, University of Applied Sciences Neubrandenburg, Neubrandenburg, Germany
| | - Christian Kunow
- Department of Health, Nursing, Management, University of Applied Sciences Neubrandenburg, Neubrandenburg, Germany
| | - Bernhard Langer
- Department of Health, Nursing, Management, University of Applied Sciences Neubrandenburg, Neubrandenburg, Germany.
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Nathan AD, Shankar PR, Sreeramareddy CT. Topical corticosteroid counselling among Malaysian community pharmacists: a qualitative interview study. BMC Prim Care 2023; 24:119. [PMID: 37231354 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-023-02071-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Topical corticosteroids (TCS) are commonly available in community pharmacies and are used in skin conditions like atopic dermatitis and psoriasis among others. Problems such as overuse, use of potent steroids and steroid phobia have been identified in the use of TCS in the literature. The aim of the study was to obtain community pharmacists (CPs) views regarding factors influencing their counselling of patients about TCS; challenges associated, important problems, the counselling process, shared care with other healthcare professionals, and explore further the findings from the questionnaire-based study. METHODS Seven licensed practicing community pharmacists (from the Klang Valley, Malaysia) were interviewed between 23rd September to 14th November 2021. These were CPs participating in the questionnaire study who agreed to be interviewed. NVIVO 11 software was used for data analysis. Codes and themes were generated and agreed on by the researchers. RESULTS The major themes identified related to the process mentioned of providing information to patients, the issues addressed by CPs during the counselling (including steroid phobia, overuse of TCS, patients asking for a specific preparation by name), less counselling support material, language barriers, lesser knowledge about certain conditions, information sources used by CPs (material provided by Ministry of Health and Malaysian Pharmacists Association, MIMS) and suggestions to strengthen the quality of counselling (specialization in skin diseases, webinars, shared care models). For patients requesting a particular preparation by name, the pharmacist will decide whether the preparation requested is suitable or suggest an alternative. Steroid phobia was seen more commonly among parents of young children and young patients. MIMS was available as a smartphone application making it easier to use. Advanced training for CPs in the management of skin conditions like that provided for diabetes mellitus can be considered. CONCLUSIONS Counselling was conducted while dispensing TCS in the open area of the pharmacy. Challenges to counselling were lack of time, limited counselling materials, and language barriers. Steroid phobia requires attention. Initiatives to strengthen counselling were mentioned by respondents and appear feasible. Further research covering the entire country is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abigail Dayang Nathan
- Public Health student, School of Postgraduate Studies, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Pathiyil Ravi Shankar
- IMU Centre for Education, International Medical University, Bukit Jalil, 57000, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
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Olden F, Dalton K. An observational study of the cause and frequency of prescription rework in community pharmacies. Int J Clin Pharm 2023:10.1007/s11096-023-01563-3. [PMID: 37160551 PMCID: PMC10169171 DOI: 10.1007/s11096-023-01563-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND When prescriptions are being processed in pharmacies, 'rework' is a phenomenon where an activity occurs that requires the return to a prior procedural step in the process for correction. To date, little is known regarding rework prevalence in community pharmacies or how this might be minimised. AIM To evaluate the cause and frequency of prescription rework in community pharmacies. METHOD A list of reworks was designed for community pharmacists to self-record prescription rework instances and causes in their workplace across a two-week period. Community pharmacists in Ireland were recruited via convenience sampling and snowballing. Descriptive statistics were used to assess rework frequency according to the various causes, as well as the pharmacist and pharmacy characteristics. RESULTS Eight pharmacists participated, recording 325 reworks across 92.9% of the 65 study days (mean 5 reworks/day). The pharmacists' mean ranged from 1.82 to 15 reworks/day. Pharmacists and pharmacy technicians alone or together were involved in 72.3% of reworks. The three most common rework categories were involving labelling errors (22.8%), prepared prescriptions which necessitated opening and repackaging (15.1%), and medication owings to patients (13.9%). CONCLUSION This study reveals that prescription rework occurs frequently in community pharmacies and has provided an indication of some of the main causes. These findings demonstrate areas where pharmacy staff can address rework and should aid the development of approaches to minimise rework in future - thus decreasing workload and facilitating more time for community pharmacy staff to focus on providing patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank Olden
- School of Pharmacy, University College Cork, College Road, Cork, Ireland
| | - Kieran Dalton
- School of Pharmacy, University College Cork, College Road, Cork, Ireland.
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Onwunduba A, Ekwunife O, Onyilogwu E. Impact of point-of-care C-reactive protein testing intervention on non-prescription dispensing of antibiotics for respiratory tract infections in private community pharmacies in Nigeria: a cluster randomized controlled trial. Int J Infect Dis 2023; 127:137-143. [PMID: 36509332 PMCID: PMC9876806 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2022.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To ascertain if access to C-reactive protein (CRP) test kits-and staff training on how to use them in respiratory tract infection (RTI) management-in private community pharmacies (PCPs) can reduce non-prescription antibiotic dispensing for RTI. METHODS A parallel cluster randomized controlled trial was conducted in Nigeria. The clusters-which were equally the participating units-were PCPs with blood testing experience. Stratified block randomization was done. PCPs were stratified by the baseline value of the primary outcome. PCPs were not blinded. The intervention PCPs were provided with CRP kits and trained to use them to make decisions regarding non-prescription antibiotic dispensing for RTI. The control PCPs received no intervention. The primary outcome was the non-prescription antibiotic dispensing rate for RTI. Data were collected by blinded simulated clients who visited each PCP 30 times before and after the intervention without prescriptions. Analyses were by intention-to-treat. RESULTS Twenty PCPs were randomized, 1:1. Ten PCPs were analyzed in each arm. Each PCP contributed 30 data points to the multiple imputation analysis where antibiotic dispensing decreased by 15.66% (209/300 [intervention] vs 256/300 [control]) in the adjusted analysis (odds ratio = 0·279, 95% confidence interval = 0.107-0.726; P-value = 0.0090) and 16% (208/300 [intervention] vs 256/300 [control]) in the crude analysis (odds ratio = 0.299, 95% confidence interval = 0.098-0.911; P-value = 0.034). CONCLUSION Access to CRP kits-and staff training on how to use them in RTI management-in PCPs reduced non-prescription antibiotic dispensing for RTI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Augustine Onwunduba
- Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Biotechnology, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria,Corresponding author: Tel: +2347061175220
| | - Obinna Ekwunife
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Management, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria
| | - Ebuka Onyilogwu
- Department of Pure and Industrial Chemistry, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria
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Kwaghe VG, Abubakar I, Kumtong N, Rapnap L, Jamda M. Outcome of Community-Based Antiretroviral Drug Refill among Stable Human Immunodeficiency Virus Patients Accessing Care at a Tertiary Center in Abuja, Nigeria: A 3-Year Review. West Afr J Med 2023; 40:67-71. [PMID: 36716456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Community-based delivery of antiretroviral therapy (ART) is an innovative approach that delivers HIV treatment services closer to the people, removing logistical barriers to clinic access, thereby improving ART uptake and retention in care. The United States Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) program in Nigeria involved community-based private sector pharmacies to expand uptake of ART. We aimed at evaluating the effectiveness of this innovation by comparing the CD4 cell count, weight and viral load of stable HIV patients before and after they were devolved to community pharmacies. METHODOLOGY This study was a facility-based retrospective study that analysed the data of HIV patients accessing care at the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital (UATH) Gwagwalada, Abuja, who were devolved to community pharmacies from June 2018 to May 2021. We compared their mean CD4 cell count, weight and viral load before they were devolved and 1 year after devolvement. RESULTS A total of 171 patients who met the eligibility criteria were devolved to community pharmacies during the study period. Majority (67.3%) of the patients were females. The age range was 24 years to 72 years with a median age of 42.8 years [inter-quartile range (IQR) 32, 62]. Their mean CD4 cell count (p=0.001) and weight (p=0.006) were higher after devolvement to community pharmacies compared to when they were at the clinic. They all maintained viral suppression after devolvement. CONCLUSION ART refill through community pharmacies is effective in maintaining viral suppression in stable HIV patients and may lead to increase in CD4 cell count and weight.
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Affiliation(s)
- V G Kwaghe
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, Gwagwalada, Abuja
| | - I Abubakar
- Department of Community Medicine, University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, Gwagwalada, Abuja
| | - N Kumtong
- Special Treatment Clinic, University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, Gwagwalada, Abuja
| | - L Rapnap
- Special Treatment Clinic, University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, Gwagwalada, Abuja
| | - M Jamda
- Department of Community Medicine, University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, Gwagwalada, Abuja
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19
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de Souza EV, Vieira LJSC, dos Santos SNP, Cerqueira-Santos S, Rocha KSS, de Oliveira Santos Silva R, de Lyra Jr DP. Evaluation of pharmacist's practices regarding the antimicrobials dispensing: a simulated patient study. BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:1576. [PMID: 36564839 PMCID: PMC9788868 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-022-08853-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The indiscriminate use of antimicrobials is considered a major contributing factor to the increase in antimicrobial resistance. Community pharmacies are the main source of access to antimicrobials, and pharmacists are in a strategic position to promote rational use of these medicines. Therefore, it is important to know dispensing service quality. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the behavior of pharmacists in dispensing antimicrobials in community pharmacies in northeast Brazil. METHODS This cross-sectional pilot study was conducted from August to October 2021 in a private community pharmacy chain in Sergipe. Dispensing was evaluated using the simulated patient (SP) technique. Two SP asked the pharmacists for the antimicrobials (case clinic 1: upper respiratory infection; case clinic 2: urinary tract infection) and recorded the service through audio. Dispensing practices were independently analyzed by two researchers based on the tools available in the literature. Data were presented using descriptive statistics. RESULTS A total of 54 simulated patient visits were conducted. Based on the 12 steps recommended by the research team for good dispensing, pharmacists asked an average of 1 (±1.17) question for upper respiratory infections and 0.3 (±0.54) for urinary tract infections, as well as provided counseling (mean number of recommendations, 2.6 (±1.44) and 4.5 (±2.35), respectively). As for communication skills, pharmacists had a regular score (3.07 ± 0.34). Furthermore, there was no significant difference in the number of steps and counseling recommendations by pharmacists in dispensing clinical cases 1 and 2 (p = 0.0674). CONCLUSION The quality of antimicrobial dispensing was evaluated as suboptimal, requiring improvements in practice and multifaceted strategies to promote continuing education of these professionals. In addition, awareness actions for the population must be implemented to promote the rational use of antimicrobials and reduce microbial resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elindayane Vieira de Souza
- grid.411252.10000 0001 2285 6801Laboratory of Teaching and Research in Social Pharmacy (LEPFS), Department of Pharmacy, Federal University of Sergipe, Avenue Marechal Rondon, Jd. Rosa Elze, São Cristóvão, Sergipe State 49100-000 Brazil
| | - Lara Joana Santos Caxico Vieira
- grid.411252.10000 0001 2285 6801Laboratory of Teaching and Research in Social Pharmacy (LEPFS), Department of Pharmacy, Federal University of Sergipe, Avenue Marechal Rondon, Jd. Rosa Elze, São Cristóvão, Sergipe State 49100-000 Brazil
| | - Sylmara Nayara Pereira dos Santos
- grid.411252.10000 0001 2285 6801Laboratory of Teaching and Research in Social Pharmacy (LEPFS), Department of Pharmacy, Federal University of Sergipe, Avenue Marechal Rondon, Jd. Rosa Elze, São Cristóvão, Sergipe State 49100-000 Brazil
| | - Sabrina Cerqueira-Santos
- grid.411252.10000 0001 2285 6801Laboratory of Teaching and Research in Social Pharmacy (LEPFS), Department of Pharmacy, Federal University of Sergipe, Avenue Marechal Rondon, Jd. Rosa Elze, São Cristóvão, Sergipe State 49100-000 Brazil
| | - Kérilin Stancine Santos Rocha
- grid.411252.10000 0001 2285 6801Laboratory of Teaching and Research in Social Pharmacy (LEPFS), Department of Pharmacy, Federal University of Sergipe, Avenue Marechal Rondon, Jd. Rosa Elze, São Cristóvão, Sergipe State 49100-000 Brazil
| | - Rafaella de Oliveira Santos Silva
- grid.411252.10000 0001 2285 6801Laboratory of Teaching and Research in Social Pharmacy (LEPFS), Department of Pharmacy, Federal University of Sergipe, Avenue Marechal Rondon, Jd. Rosa Elze, São Cristóvão, Sergipe State 49100-000 Brazil
| | - Divaldo Pereira de Lyra Jr
- grid.411252.10000 0001 2285 6801Laboratory of Teaching and Research in Social Pharmacy (LEPFS), Department of Pharmacy, Federal University of Sergipe, Avenue Marechal Rondon, Jd. Rosa Elze, São Cristóvão, Sergipe State 49100-000 Brazil
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20
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Bou-Saba AW, Kassak KM, Salameh PR. Public views of community pharmacy services during the COVID-19 pandemic: a national survey. J Pharm Policy Pract 2022; 15:76. [PMID: 36309706 DOI: 10.1186/s40545-022-00474-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess public opinion about community pharmacy services in Lebanon during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHOD A cross-sectional study using an online questionnaire was conducted between April and August of 2021. A link was shared randomly among the Lebanese population using WhatsApp and Facebook. Public perceptions were explored within 3 different indicators: general services (B) dispensing (C), and storage (D). Chi-square, Student's test and ANOVA tests were used. p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS Out of 491 responses, only 9.6% scored above the 75th percentile (19.3% for the general services, 2.4% for dispensing indicator and 12.6% for storage indicator). The main concerns focused on lack of medication and reduced opening hours; however, 67.1% of respondents preferred consulting the community pharmacist instead of visiting primary health care centers, doctor's private clinic and hospitals. Higher mean values of indicators B, C and in the overall indicator were significantly found in the presence of a pharmacist compared to the support pharmacy workforce. CONCLUSION The overall public perception was inadequate. Significant difference in terms of quality of services was detected in the presence and absence of a community pharmacist during the crisis. It is recommended that the Order of Pharmacist of Lebanon (OPL) and the Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) undergo further steps mainly to enforce the laws concerning dispensing and storage indicators, improve the services in terms of extending the opening hours, ensure the availability of medicines and increase public awareness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alein W Bou-Saba
- Doctoral School of Science and Technology, Lebanese University, Hadat, Lebanon. .,Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon.
| | - Kassem M Kassak
- Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Pascale R Salameh
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Lebanese University, Hadat, Lebanon.,Epidémiologie Clinique et Toxicologie, Liban (INSPECT-LB), Institut National de Santé Publique, Beirut, Lebanon.,Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University of Nicosia Medical School, Nicosia, Cyprus.,School of Medicine, Lebanese American University, Byblos, Lebanon
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21
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de Souza MFR, de Sena MPM, Oliveira CM, Sales CA, de Melo RBC, de Sena LWP. Analysis of the clinical practice of the pharmacist in a community pharmacy: A Cross-sectional Study from Brazil. Pharm Pract (Granada) 2022; 20:2658. [PMID: 35919800 PMCID: PMC9296079 DOI: 10.18549/pharmpract.2022.2.2658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The pharmaceutical profession has experienced renewals over time. In community pharmacies, pharmaceutical services contribute to the public health system in Brazil. The development of these tasks, in collaboration with professionals from the multidisciplinary team, demonstrates the involvement with the well-being, health and improvement of the patient’s life. Objectives: This study aimed to identify the professional practice of pharmacists, their understandings and attitudes towards clinical practice in community pharmacies in northern Brazil. Methods: This is a cross-sectional descriptive study, based on a questionnaire carried out with pharmacists for seven months in the municipality of Belém, in the state of Pará. Data were expressed using descriptive statistics and the results were shown as a percentage. Results: 182 pharmacists participated. Females were predominant (80.2%) and the average age of participants was 34.2 years. 77.4% graduated from private institutions and 59.3% already have a specialization. 38.4% hold the position of technical director. 50.5% of respondents say that community pharmacies have a reserved place for service. The most used clinical services were pharmacotherapy review (89.5%), health education (60.9%), dispensing (34%), therapeutic monitoring (25.8%) and pharmacotherapeutic follow-up (4.9%). In the study, it was realized that community pharmacies should not be seen as a commercial place but rather as a health care facility. Conclusions: Therefore, these establishments must adapt at a structural and professional level, to meet an increasingly growing demand of a population in need of services offered with quality health care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Camila Martins Oliveira
- MSc. Research Assistant, Federal University of Para. Faculty of Pharmacy. Belem, Para, Brazil.
| | - Clarisse Andrade Sales
- MSc. Research Assistant, Federal University of Para. Faculty of Pharmacy. Belem, Para, Brazil.
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22
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Alnahar SA, Gkountouras G, Darwish RM, Bates I. Community pharmacists workforce readiness to deliver vaccination services: A cross-sectional study from Jordan. Pharmacol Res Perspect 2022; 10:e00943. [PMID: 35239230 PMCID: PMC8893009 DOI: 10.1002/prp2.943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2021] [Revised: 01/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
This study assesses Jordanian community pharmacists’ readiness and willingness to deliver vaccination services in their practice sites. Between February and April 2021, a self‐administered online questionnaire was distributed via social media, WhatsApp messages, and personal communication. The questionnaire targeted practicing community pharmacies. Descriptive and inferential data analysis was carried out. A total of 403 community pharmacists participated in the study. Almost 146 (36%) community pharmacists reported vaccinating patients in their practice sites. However, readiness assessment revealed that only 54 (13.4%) pharmacists received the required training and qualifications. Moreover, 33 (8.2%) study participants worked in adequately equipped and designed community pharmacies. Overall, surveyed participants held positive attitudes toward their involvement in vaccination services: 260 (64.5%) pharmacists were willing to vaccinate patients, and 227 (65.0%) out of unready, unqualified, participants were willing to get needed training and qualifications. According to study participants, regulatory and professional bodies (Ministry of Health, Jordan Pharmacists Association) are influential in supporting pharmacist‐vaccinators. Among the investigated factors, organizational structure and employment status were significantly associated with pharmacists’ readiness to deliver vaccination. This study revealed that further work is needed to increase pharmacists’ and pharmacies’ readiness to deliver vaccination services and that regulators should follow a more active approach in highlighting the importance of training and the impact of training in patients’ safety and satisfaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saja A Alnahar
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, Yarmouk University, Irbid, Jordan.,Department of Primary Care and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Georgios Gkountouras
- Division of Population Health, Health Services Research and Primary Care, School of Health Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Rula M Darwish
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, School of Pharmacy, University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Ian Bates
- School of Pharmacy, University College London, London, UK
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23
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Chew-Graham CA, Kitchen CEW, Gascoyne S, Littlewood E, Coleman E, Bailey D, Crosland S, Pearson C, Ali S, Badenhorst J, Bambra C, Hewitt C, Jones C, Keding A, McMillan D, Sloan C, Todd A, Toner P, Whittlesea C, Watson M, Gilbody S, Ekers D. The feasibility and acceptability of a brief psychological intervention for adults with long-term health conditions and subthreshold depression delivered via community pharmacies: a mixed methods evaluation-the Community Pharmacies Mood Intervention Study (CHEMIST). Pilot Feasibility Stud 2022; 8:27. [PMID: 35115052 PMCID: PMC8812235 DOI: 10.1186/s40814-022-00992-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adults with long-term health conditions (LTCs) are more likely to experience depressive symptoms which can worsen health outcomes and quality of life, and increase healthcare costs. Subthreshold depression may go undetected and/or untreated. The Community Pharmacies Mood Intervention Study (CHEMIST) explored whether community pharmacies represent a suitable setting to offer brief psychological support to people with LTCs and comorbid subthreshold depression. METHODS A feasibility intervention study with a nested mixed methods evaluation was employed. Adults with subthreshold depression and a minimum of one LTC were recruited from community pharmacies/local general practices and offered a brief psychological support intervention ('Enhanced Support Intervention' (ESI)), based on behavioural activation within a Collaborative Care framework. The intervention included up to six sessions supported by pharmacy staff ('ESI facilitators') trained to deliver the ESI within the community pharmacy setting. Recruitment, retention rates and engagement with the ESI were assessed. Semi-structured, one-to-one interviews with pharmacy staff and study participants, and a focus group with pharmacy staff, explored experiences and acceptability of the study and the ESI. Themes were mapped onto constructs of the Theoretical Framework of Acceptability. RESULTS Recruitment of ESI participants was challenging and slower than anticipated despite the varied methods of recruitment employed; although, this was useful in identifying barriers and enabling factors for participation. Engagament with the ESI was good with n=17 (71%) recruited participants commencing the ESI. The ESI was found to be acceptable to participants and ESI facilitators. Retention rate at 4 months was good n=20 (87.0%). The main barriers to identifying potential participants for pharmacy staff were lack of time, resources and limited experience in research. The ESI training and support manual were acceptable to ESI facilitators. The ESI and supporting patient workbook were acceptable to people with LTCs and subthreshold depression. CONCLUSIONS Community pharmacies were viewed as an acceptable setting in which to deliver preventative brief psychological support to people with LTCs at risk of depression. This feasibility study provided important data to inform the design of a pilot randomised controlled trial in this setting and highlighted important considerations for future pharmacy-based research. TRIAL REGISTRATION ISRCTN11290592.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Della Bailey
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
| | | | | | - Shehzad Ali
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK.,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Western University, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jay Badenhorst
- Whitworth Chemists Ltd, Foxhills Industrial Estate, Scunthorpe, UK
| | - Clare Bambra
- Institute of Population Health Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK
| | | | - Claire Jones
- Public Health Team, Adult & Health Services, Durham County Council, Durham, UK
| | - Ada Keding
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
| | - Dean McMillan
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK.,Hull York Medical School, University of York, York, UK
| | - Claire Sloan
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK
| | - Adam Todd
- Institute of Population Health Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK.,School of Pharmacy, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Paul Toner
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK.,Centre for Improving Health-Related Quality of Life, School of Psychology, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Cate Whittlesea
- UCL School of Pharmacy, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - Simon Gilbody
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK.,Hull York Medical School, University of York, York, UK
| | - David Ekers
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, UK.,Research and Development, Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust, Middlesbrough, UK
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24
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Wada YH, Musa MK, Ekpenyong A, Adebisi YA, Musa MB, Khalid GM. Increasing coverage of vaccination by pharmacists in Nigeria; an urgent need. Public Health Pract (Oxf) 2021; 2:100148. [PMID: 36101639 PMCID: PMC9461555 DOI: 10.1016/j.puhip.2021.100148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Pharmacists have a key role to play to advance public health through immunization. Pharmacists are well trained and play a huge role in vaccine production, research and development, safety, pharmacovigilance, storage, logistics and distribution. There is a need for a revised national policy and strategy in Nigeria on vaccination and immunization programs with the involvement of community pharmacies and/or pharmacists. This will help accelerate getting a wider vaccination access coverage, establishing a greater healthcare delivery workforce for societal benefits and demonstrate the full potential of the community pharmacies and the pharmacists’ role in immunization programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusuf Hassan Wada
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, Nigeria.,West African Academy of Public Health, Abuja, Nigeria
| | | | - Aniekan Ekpenyong
- Global Health Policy Unit, University of Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Garba Mohammed Khalid
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria
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25
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Afifi S, Alizadeh Bahmani AH, Zarei L, Mahi-Birjand M, Hoorang M, Zare M, Karimzadeh I, Peiravian F, Mirjalili M, Peymani P. Assessing the Performance of Community Pharmacies in Iran by Measuring Responsiveness to Non-Medical Needs: An Application of WHO Responsiveness Framework. J Res Pharm Pract 2021; 10:59-64. [PMID: 34527609 PMCID: PMC8420932 DOI: 10.4103/jrpp.jrpp_21_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: Despite growing debates about the health systems' nonmedical performance, there has not been any empirical research on nonmedical performance and patients' rights consideration as a driver of human rights in the pharmaceutical sector. This study's main objective was to assess the nonmedical performance of community pharmacies of Shiraz, Iran. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using two self-administrated Likert-based questionnaires based on the World Health Organization (WHO) responsiveness framework and the legal charter communicated by the Ministry of Health and Medical Education of Iran. The population was patients older than 18 years who took a prescription from community pharmacies located in Shiraz and willing to answer the questions voluntarily, from 2018 to 2019. Considering the weights of subdimensions of responsiveness provided by the WHO framework, the total score of responsiveness was calculated ranging from 0 to 100. Findings: The response rate was 80.5%. The mean (standard deviation) overall score of responsiveness was 57.18 (21.61), with a median of 56.71. The mean score of client orientation was lower in respondents with a high education level than those with a diploma and under diploma (P = 0.028). Conclusion: Nonmedical pharmacy performance was considered either medium or high in more than half of the cases based on the participants' views. Regarding client, orientation was seen less often in patients with high education level compared to those with a lower education level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saba Afifi
- Health Policy Research Center, Institute of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | | | - Leila Zarei
- Health Policy Research Center, Institute of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Motahareh Mahi-Birjand
- Infectious Disease Research Center, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Mehdi Hoorang
- Health Policy Research Center, Institute of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Marziyeh Zare
- Health Policy Research Center, Institute of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Iman Karimzadeh
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Farzad Peiravian
- Department of Pharmacoeconomics and Pharma Management, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Payam Peymani
- Health Policy Research Center, Institute of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.,Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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26
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Kazerouni NJ, Irwin AN, Levander XA, Geddes J, Johnston K, Gostanian CJ, Mayfield BS, Montgomery BT, Graalum DC, Hartung DM. Pharmacy-related buprenorphine access barriers: An audit of pharmacies in counties with a high opioid overdose burden. Drug Alcohol Depend 2021; 224:108729. [PMID: 33932744 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2021.108729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Revised: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pharmacies sometimes restrict access to buprenorphine-naloxone (buprenorphine) for individuals with opioid use disorder. The objective of this study was to quantify the frequency of barriers encountered by patients seeking to fill buprenorphine prescriptions from pharmacies in United States (US) counties with high opioid-related mortality. METHODS To characterize buprenorphine availability, we conducted a telephone audit ("secret shopper") study using a standardized script in two randomly selected pharmacies (one chain, one independent) in US counties reporting higher than average opioid overdose rates. Availability across pharmacy type (chain versus independent), county characteristics (rurality, region, overdose rate), and day of week were analyzed using univariate tests of categorical data. Independent predictors of buprenorphine availability were then identified using a multivariable binomial regression model. RESULTS Among 921 pharmacies contacted (467 chain, 454 independent), 73 % were in urban counties and 42 % were in Southern states. Of these pharmacies, 675 (73 %) reported being able to dispense buprenorphine. There were 183 (20 %) pharmacies that indicated they would not dispense buprenorphine. Independent pharmacies (adjusted prevalence ratio [aPR], 1.59; 95 % CI 1.21-2.08) and pharmacies in Southern states (aPR 2.06; 95 % CI 1.43-2.97) were significantly more likely to restrict buprenorphine. CONCLUSIONS In US counties with high overdose mortality rates, one in five pharmacies indicated they would not dispense buprenorphine. Buprenorphine access limitations were more common among independent pharmacies and those in Southern states. Pharmacy-directed interventions may be necessary to ensure timely buprenorphine access for patients with opioid use disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neda J Kazerouni
- College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University/Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Adriane N Irwin
- College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University/Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Ximena A Levander
- Oregon Health & Science University, Department of Medicine Division of General Internal Medicine Section of Addiction Medicine, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Rd., Portland, OR, 97239, United States.
| | - Jonah Geddes
- College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University/Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Kirbee Johnston
- College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University/Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Carly J Gostanian
- College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University/Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Baylee S Mayfield
- College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University/Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Brandon T Montgomery
- College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University/Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Diana C Graalum
- MedSavvy/Cambia Health Solutions, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Daniel M Hartung
- College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University/Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States.
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27
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Imlach F, McKinlay E, Kennedy J, Morris C, Pledger M, Cumming J, McBride-Henry K. E-prescribing and access to prescription medicines during lockdown: experience of patients in Aotearoa/New Zealand. BMC Fam Pract 2021; 22:140. [PMID: 34210271 PMCID: PMC8247618 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-021-01490-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Background Health services internationally have been compelled to change their methods of service delivery in response to the global COVID-19 pandemic, to mitigate the spread of infection amongst health professionals and patients. In Aotearoa/New Zealand, widespread electronic delivery of prescriptions (e-prescribing) was enabled. The aim of the research was to explore patients’ experiences of how lockdown, changes to prescribing and the interface between general practices and community pharmacy affected access to prescription medications. Method The research employed a mixed-method approach. This included an online survey (n = 1,010) and in-depth interviews with a subset of survey respondents (n = 38) during the first COVID-19 lockdown (March–May 2020). Respondents were recruited through a snowballing approach, starting with social media and email list contacts of the research team. In keeping with the approach, descriptive statistics of survey data and thematic analysis of qualitative interview and open-ended questions in survey data were combined. Results For most respondents who received a prescription during lockdown, this was sent directly to the pharmacy. Most people picked up their medication from the pharmacy; home delivery of medication was rare (4%). Survey and interview respondents wanted e-prescribing to continue post-lockdown and described where things worked well and where they encountered delays in the process of acquiring prescription medication. Conclusions E-prescribing has the potential to improve access to prescription medication and is convenient for patients. The increase in e-prescribing during lockdown highlighted how the system could be improved, through better feedback about errors, more consistency across practices and pharmacies, more proactive communication with patients, and equitable prescribing costs. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12875-021-01490-0.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona Imlach
- Health Services Research Centre, Victoria University of Wellington, P.O. Box 600, Wellington, 6011, New Zealand
| | - Eileen McKinlay
- Department of Primary Health Care and General Practice, University of Otago Wellington, PO Box 7343, Newtown, 6021, New Zealand
| | - Jonathan Kennedy
- Department of Primary Health Care and General Practice, University of Otago Wellington, PO Box 7343, Newtown, 6021, New Zealand
| | - Caroline Morris
- Department of Primary Health Care and General Practice, University of Otago Wellington, PO Box 7343, Newtown, 6021, New Zealand
| | - Megan Pledger
- Health Services Research Centre, Victoria University of Wellington, P.O. Box 600, Wellington, 6011, New Zealand
| | - Jacqueline Cumming
- Health Services Research Centre, Victoria University of Wellington, P.O. Box 600, Wellington, 6011, New Zealand
| | - Karen McBride-Henry
- School of Nursing, Midwifery, and Health Practice, Victoria University of Wellington, P.O. Box 600, Wellington, 6011, New Zealand.
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Fanelli E, Ravetto Enri L, Pappaccogli M, Fasano C, Di Monaco S, Pignata I, Baratta F, Eula E, Masera G, Mana M, Rabbia F, Brusa P, Veglio F. Knowledge on arterial hypertension in general population: Results from a community pharmacy screening program. Nutr Metab Cardiovasc Dis 2021; 31:1081-1086. [PMID: 33618921 DOI: 10.1016/j.numecd.2021.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Revised: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUNDS AND AIMS Hypertension is a risk factor for renal, cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. It is responsible for a large proportion of overall morbidity and mortality every year. Hypertension-mediated organ damage is largely not reversible. For these reasons, prevention has primary importance: sensibilization of population on hypertension-related consequences is essential for therapeutic adherence and reduction of unhealthy lifestyle behaviour. This study aimed to evaluate awareness about hypertension among community pharmacies customers. METHODS AND RESULTS A questionnaire about hypertension was collected by 2731 customers from 94 community pharmacies in North West Italy, during a hypertension screening program. Hypertension awareness was unsatisfactory in a large proportion of the sample, with only 15% of subjects having an overall good level of knowledge. Furthermore, lower awareness was associated to higher blood pressure values (132/79 ± 19/11 mmHg vs 128/78 ± 18/10 mmHg, p < 0.001) and subjects resulted hypertensive or uncontrolled despite antihypertensive therapy, presented worse questionnaire scores (4.7 ± 1.9 vs 4.9 ± 2.0, p = 0.03). CONCLUSION Knowledge about hypertension is largely unsatisfactory among population. Community pharmacies may play as a setting for health education and hypertension screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elvira Fanelli
- Department of Medical Sciences, Internal Medicine and Hypertension Division, AOU Città della Salute e della Scienza, University of Turin, Turin, Italy.
| | | | - Marco Pappaccogli
- Department of Medical Sciences, Internal Medicine and Hypertension Division, AOU Città della Salute e della Scienza, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Chiara Fasano
- Department of Medical Sciences, Internal Medicine and Hypertension Division, AOU Città della Salute e della Scienza, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Silvia Di Monaco
- Department of Medical Sciences, Internal Medicine and Hypertension Division, AOU Città della Salute e della Scienza, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Irene Pignata
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Francesca Baratta
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Eula
- Department of Medical Sciences, Internal Medicine and Hypertension Division, AOU Città della Salute e della Scienza, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Guglielmo Masera
- Department of Medical Sciences, Internal Medicine and Hypertension Division, AOU Città della Salute e della Scienza, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | | | - Franco Rabbia
- Department of Medical Sciences, Internal Medicine and Hypertension Division, AOU Città della Salute e della Scienza, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Paola Brusa
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Franco Veglio
- Department of Medical Sciences, Internal Medicine and Hypertension Division, AOU Città della Salute e della Scienza, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
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Caminati M, Cegolon L, Bacchini M, Segala N, Dama A, Bovo C, Olivieri B, Furci F, Senna G. The potential role of local pharmacies to assess asthma control: an Italian cross-sectional study. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:19. [PMID: 33402150 PMCID: PMC7784353 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-10080-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Asthma control and monitoring still represents a challenge worldwide. Although the international guidelines suggest the interplay between secondary and primary care services as an effective strategy to control the disease, community pharmacies’ are seldom involved in asthma control assessment. The present cross-sectional study aimed at providing a picture of the relationship between asthma severity and control in community pharmacies within the health district of the city of Verona (Veneto Region, North-Eastern Italy). Methods A call for participation was launched through the Pharmacists’ Association of Verona. Patients referring to the participating pharmacies with an anti-asthmatic drug medical prescription and an asthma exemption code were asked to complete the Asthma Control Test (ACT) and a brief questionnaire collecting information on their age, sex, smoking status, aerobic physical exercise and usual asthma therapy, which also defined asthma severity. A multinomial logistic regression model was fitted to investigate the risk of uncontrolled as well as poorly controlled vs. controlled asthma (base). Results were expressed as relative risk ratios (RRR) with 95% confidence interval (95%CI). Results Fifty-seven community pharmacies accepted to participate and 584 asthmatic patients (54% females; mean-age: 51 ± 19 years) were consecutively recruited from 1st January to 30th June 2018 (6 months). Based upon ACT score 50.5% patients had a controlled asthma, 22.3% a poorly controlled and 27.2% uncontrolled. A variable proportion of patients with uncontrolled asthma were observed for every level of severity, although more frequently with mild persistent form of asthma. Most patients (92%) self-reported regular compliance with therapy. At multinomial regression analysis, patients under regular asthma treatment course (RRR = 0.33; 95%CI: 0.15; 0.77) were less likely to have an ACT< 16 compared to those not taking medications regularly. Conclusions Overall, our findings highlighted an unsatisfactory asthma control in the general population, independently of the severity level of the disease. Community pharmacies could be a useful frontline interface between patients and the health care services, supporting an effective asthma management plan, from disease assessment and monitoring treatment compliance to referral of patients to specialist medical consultancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Caminati
- Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - L Cegolon
- Local Health Unit N.2 "Marca Trevigiana", Public Health Department, Treviso, Italy.
| | - M Bacchini
- Pharmacists' Association of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - N Segala
- Pharmacists' Association of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - A Dama
- Asthma Centre & Allergy Unit, Verona University Hospital, Verona, Italy
| | - C Bovo
- Medical Directorate, Verona University Hospital, Verona, Italy
| | - B Olivieri
- Residency Programme in Allergy & Clinical Immunology, Verona University Hospital, Verona, Italy
| | - F Furci
- Department of Clinical & Experimental Medicine, University Hospital G. Martino, Messina, Italy
| | - G Senna
- Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
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30
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Merks P, Jakubowska M, Drelich E, Świeczkowski D, Bogusz J, Bilmin K, Sola KF, May A, Majchrowska A, Koziol M, Pawlikowski J, Jaguszewski M, Vaillancourt R. The legal extension of the role of pharmacists in light of the COVID-19 global pandemic. Res Social Adm Pharm 2021; 17:1807-1812. [PMID: 32546449 PMCID: PMC7289723 DOI: 10.1016/j.sapharm.2020.05.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 05/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 epidemic has affected every area of life. The greatest challenge has been to adapt the functioning of the health service to prevent the spread of the epidemic and to help infected patients. This has required the involvement of not only doctors and nurses, but also pharmacists. In the face of this pandemic, governments in many countries have granted pharmacists greater authority. OBJECTIVES The purpose of this paper is to review the legal extension of the role of pharmacists in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. The review considers recent changes in European countries, Canada, and the United States. METHODS A literature review was performed to summarise knowledge about the extension of the role of pharmacists during the pandemic period. Key articles were retrieved mainly from PubMed and Google Scholar, using the terms "COVID-19", "2019-nCoV", "coronavirus", and "pandemic" in combination with "pharmacist" as keywords for our search. We included scientific publications from February 1, 2019 to May 15, 2020. RESULTS Pharmacists have been given numerous opportunities so that they can actively join in the fight against the virus. Some of the novel legal extensions aimed at aiding overloaded healthcare systems are as follows: authorisation to prepare hand and surface disinfectants, eligibility to renew chronic treatment prescriptions, as well as filling pro auctore and pro familia prescriptions by pharmacists, performing COVID-19, influenza, and Group A Streptococcus screening tests, and vaccine administration. Moreover, many countries have facilitated Internet services, such as virtual medical consultations, e-prescriptions, and home drug delivery - to promote social distancing among patients. To mitigate drug shortages, the following strategies have been implemented: alternative sourcing, strength, generic, or therapeutic substitution, and preparing compounded formulations at the pharmacy. CONCLUSIONS Novel legal extensions have allowed exploitation of the full potential ofpharmacists worldwide, aiding the limited resources of overloaded healthcare systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piotr Merks
- Faculty of Medicine, Collegium Medicum, Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński University, Wóycickiego 1/3, 01-938, Warsaw, Poland; Trade Union of Pharmacy Workers, Meriana C. Coopera 6B/10, 01-315, Warsaw, Poland; Polish Pharmaceutical Group, Zbąszyńska 3, 91-342, Łódź, Poland; Employed Pharmacist in Europe (EPhEU) C/o Verband Angestellter Apotheker Österreichs (VAAÖ) Berufliche Interessenvertretung, Spitalgasse 31/4, 1090, Vienna, Austria; Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, CollegiumMedicum in Bydgoszcz, A. Jurasza 2, 85-089 Bydgoszcz, Poland.
| | - Marta Jakubowska
- Trade Union of Pharmacy Workers, Meriana C. Coopera 6B/10, 01-315, Warsaw, Poland; Polish Pharmaceutical Group, Zbąszyńska 3, 91-342, Łódź, Poland
| | - Ewelina Drelich
- Trade Union of Pharmacy Workers, Meriana C. Coopera 6B/10, 01-315, Warsaw, Poland; Polish Pharmaceutical Group, Zbąszyńska 3, 91-342, Łódź, Poland
| | - Damian Świeczkowski
- First Department of Cardiology, Medical University of Gdańsk, Dębinki 7, 80-952, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Joanna Bogusz
- Department of Epidemiology, National Institute of Public Health, National Institute of Hygiene, Chocimska 24, 00-791, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Krzysztof Bilmin
- Faculty of Medicine, Collegium Medicum, Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński University, Wóycickiego 1/3, 01-938, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Katarina Fehir Sola
- Pharmacy of Bjelovar, Petra Preradovića 4, Bjelovar, Croatia; Employed Pharmacist in Europe (EPhEU) C/o Verband Angestellter Apotheker Österreichs (VAAÖ) Berufliche Interessenvertretung, Spitalgasse 31/4, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Andreas May
- Employed Pharmacist in Europe (EPhEU) C/o Verband Angestellter Apotheker Österreichs (VAAÖ) Berufliche Interessenvertretung, Spitalgasse 31/4, 1090, Vienna, Austria; ADEXA Die Apothekengewerkschaft, ADEXA, Hudtwalckerstraße 10, 22299, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Anita Majchrowska
- Department of Medical Sociology, Medical University of Lublin, Aleje Racławickie 1, 20-059, Lublin, Poland
| | - Mark Koziol
- Employed Pharmacist in Europe (EPhEU) C/o Verband Angestellter Apotheker Österreichs (VAAÖ) Berufliche Interessenvertretung, Spitalgasse 31/4, 1090, Vienna, Austria; Pharmacy Defence Association, 69 Albion St, B1 3EA, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Jakub Pawlikowski
- Faculty of Medicine, Collegium Medicum, Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński University, Wóycickiego 1/3, 01-938, Warsaw, Poland; Department of Medical Sociology, Medical University of Lublin, Aleje Racławickie 1, 20-059, Lublin, Poland
| | - Miłosz Jaguszewski
- Polish Pharmaceutical Group, Zbąszyńska 3, 91-342, Łódź, Poland; First Department of Cardiology, Medical University of Gdańsk, Dębinki 7, 80-952, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Regis Vaillancourt
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, Centre Hospitalier pour Enfants de L'est de L'Ontario, 401 Smyth Road, Ottawa, ON, K1H 8L1, Canada
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Carpenter DM, Hastings T, Westrick S, Rosenthal M, Mashburn P, Kiser S, Shepherd JG, Curran G. Rural community pharmacies' preparedness for and responses to COVID-19. Res Social Adm Pharm 2020; 17:1327-1331. [PMID: 34155979 PMCID: PMC7577225 DOI: 10.1016/j.sapharm.2020.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Background Few studies have documented rural community pharmacy disaster preparedness. Objectives To: (1) describe rural community pharmacies’ preparedness for and responses to COVID-19 and (2) examine whether responses vary by level of pharmacy rurality. Methods A convenience sample of rural community pharmacists completed an online survey (62% response rate) that assessed: (a) demographic characteristics; (b) COVID-19 information source use; (c) interest in COVID-19 testing; (d) infection control procedures; (e) disaster preparedness training, and (f) medication supply impacts. Descriptive statistics were calculated and differences by pharmacy rurality were explored. Results Pharmacists used the CDC (87%), state health departments (77%), and state pharmacy associations (71%) for COVID-19 information, with half receiving conflicting information. Most pharmacists (78%) were interested in offering COVID-19 testing but needed personal protective equipment and training to do so. Only 10% had received disaster preparedness training in the past five years. Although 73% had disaster preparedness plans, 27% were deemed inadequate for the pandemic. Nearly 70% experienced negative impacts in medication supply. There were few differences by rurality level. Conclusion Rural pharmacies may be better positioned to respond to pandemics if they had disaster preparedness training, updated disaster preparedness plans, and received regular policy guidance from professional bodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Delesha M Carpenter
- Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
| | - Tessa Hastings
- College of Pharmacy, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Salisa Westrick
- Harrison School of Pharmacy, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, USA
| | | | - Patricia Mashburn
- Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Stephanie Kiser
- Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - J Greene Shepherd
- Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Geoffrey Curran
- Departments of Pharmacy Practice and Psychiatry, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, AR, USA
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Feng Z, Hayat K, Huang Z, Shi L, Li P, Xiang C, Gong Y, Chang J, Jiang M, Yang C, Zhao M, Ji W, Fang Y. Knowledge, attitude, and practices of community pharmacy staff toward antimicrobial stewardship programs: a cross-sectional study from Northeastern China. Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2020; 19:529-536. [PMID: 32945697 DOI: 10.1080/14787210.2021.1826307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Antimicrobial resistance is one of the most significant challenges of the twenty-first century, and the illegal sale of antimicrobial drugs at community pharmacies is a driver of antimicrobial resistance. This study explores the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of pharmacy staff toward antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASPs). METHODS We conducted a descriptive cross-sectional study among community pharmacy staff in Northeastern China, from April 1 to 31 May 2019, using a self-administered KAP questionnaire comprising 20 items. The data analysis was carried out by employing Mann-Whitney and Kruskal-Wallis tests. RESULTS A response rate of 98.5% (394/400) was obtained. The majority of participants (94.9%) demonstrated a good understanding of antimicrobial use, but they lacked an adequate understanding of ASPs. Nearly half of the participants (40.6%) reported that they sold antimicrobials to patients without a prescription. Education level, age, occupation, and experience were all significantly associated (P < 0.05) with participants' median ASPs scores. Besides, the presence of a licensed pharmacist (OR 46.327, 95% CI 2.443-878.451, P = 0.011) was the main factor associated with the pharmacy staff's understanding of antimicrobial use policies. CONCLUSIONS The participants' knowledge of antimicrobials was good, and their attitudes regarding ASPs were positive, but their practices regarding ASPs were poor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhitong Feng
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Shaanxi Centre for Health Reform and Development Research, Xi'an, China.,Research Institute for Drug Safety and Monitoring, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, China's Western Technological Innovation Harbor, Xi'an, China
| | - Khezar Hayat
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Shaanxi Centre for Health Reform and Development Research, Xi'an, China.,Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Zhe Huang
- School of Business Administration, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Li Shi
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Shaanxi Centre for Health Reform and Development Research, Xi'an, China.,Research Institute for Drug Safety and Monitoring, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, China's Western Technological Innovation Harbor, Xi'an, China
| | - Pengchao Li
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Shaanxi Centre for Health Reform and Development Research, Xi'an, China.,Research Institute for Drug Safety and Monitoring, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, China's Western Technological Innovation Harbor, Xi'an, China
| | - Cheng Xiang
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Shaanxi Centre for Health Reform and Development Research, Xi'an, China.,Research Institute for Drug Safety and Monitoring, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, China's Western Technological Innovation Harbor, Xi'an, China
| | - Yilin Gong
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Shaanxi Centre for Health Reform and Development Research, Xi'an, China.,Research Institute for Drug Safety and Monitoring, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, China's Western Technological Innovation Harbor, Xi'an, China
| | - Jie Chang
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Shaanxi Centre for Health Reform and Development Research, Xi'an, China.,Research Institute for Drug Safety and Monitoring, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, China's Western Technological Innovation Harbor, Xi'an, China
| | - Minghuan Jiang
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Shaanxi Centre for Health Reform and Development Research, Xi'an, China.,Research Institute for Drug Safety and Monitoring, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, China's Western Technological Innovation Harbor, Xi'an, China
| | - Caijun Yang
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Shaanxi Centre for Health Reform and Development Research, Xi'an, China.,Research Institute for Drug Safety and Monitoring, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, China's Western Technological Innovation Harbor, Xi'an, China
| | - Mingyue Zhao
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Shaanxi Centre for Health Reform and Development Research, Xi'an, China.,Research Institute for Drug Safety and Monitoring, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, China's Western Technological Innovation Harbor, Xi'an, China
| | - Wenjing Ji
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Shaanxi Centre for Health Reform and Development Research, Xi'an, China.,Research Institute for Drug Safety and Monitoring, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, China's Western Technological Innovation Harbor, Xi'an, China
| | - Yu Fang
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Shaanxi Centre for Health Reform and Development Research, Xi'an, China.,Research Institute for Drug Safety and Monitoring, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, China's Western Technological Innovation Harbor, Xi'an, China
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Lin CH, Lin YW, Wang JY, Lin MH. The pharmaceutical practice of mask distribution by pharmacists in Taiwan's community pharmacies under the Mask Real-Name System, in response to the COVID-19 outbreak. Cost Eff Resour Alloc 2020; 18:45. [PMID: 33088224 PMCID: PMC7570415 DOI: 10.1186/s12962-020-00239-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 10/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Pharmacists hold to their promise to foster, implement and promote the health of the population and to prevent disease, given their knowledge, skills, and proximity to the locals. The objective of this study was to foster equality and cost-effectiveness in the distribution and sale of masks to all Taiwanese citizens, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods All 6336 special community pharmacies participating in the NHI (National Health Insurance) served as mask-selling sites. Access to masks by citizens was determined and controlled, based on the weekly rationing of the number of purchasable masks per citizen and the last digit of their NHI card number. Masks were available on different weekdays for holders of cards ending with odd and even numbers, except on Sundays, when everyone was eligible to buy a mask. Results Implementing the program has provided equal access to masks for all citizens across Taiwan. It has stabilized the pricing of masks and mitigated the public's anxiety of a perceived likely market shortage. Conclusion The community pharmacy-based approach to the distribution of prevention face masks to citizens represents a new and innovative engagement of pharmacists in public health promotion and protection initiatives. Community pharmacies can greatly improve the efficiency, reliability, and cost-saving of the distribution of public health resources to local communities, especially in the face of an epidemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Che-Huei Lin
- Department of Pharmacy and Master Program, Tajen University, Pintung, 90741 Taiwan.,Fulun Chain Drugstore, Nantou, 54062 Taiwan.,Department of College Business Administration, National Chiayi University, Chiayi, 60054 Taiwan
| | - Ya-Wen Lin
- Department of College Public Health, China Medical University, Taichung, 40402 Taiwan.,School of Nursing, China Medical University, Taichung, 40402 Taiwan
| | - Jong-Yi Wang
- Department of Health Services Administration, China Medical University, Taichung, 40402 Taiwan
| | - Ming-Hung Lin
- Department of Pharmacy and Master Program, Tajen University, Pintung, 90741 Taiwan.,Department of College Public Health, China Medical University, Taichung, 40402 Taiwan.,Department of Health Services Administration, China Medical University, Taichung, 40402 Taiwan.,Fulun Chain Drugstore, Nantou, 54062 Taiwan
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Romão M, Figueira D, Galante H, Guerreiro J, Romano S. Who are the ostomy patients and caregivers attending Portuguese community pharmacies? A cross-sectional study. BMC Health Serv Res 2020; 20:914. [PMID: 33008370 PMCID: PMC7532616 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-020-05765-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In 2017, ostomy patients gained access to ostomy products in community pharmacies that are fully reimbursed by the Portuguese National Health Service. This impacted the daily lives of people with ostomy and opened a new market of products and services for pharmacies. However, little is known about the sociodemographic and clinical profile of ostomy patients. This study aims to characterize people with ostomy and their caregivers, evaluate access and satisfaction with the pharmacy and explore participants' expectations regarding services and counselling. METHODS This was an observational, cross-sectional, multicentre study involving pharmacy users who acquired ostomy products in Portuguese community pharmacies. Data were collected through a confidential self-report questionnaire between June and August 2019. RESULTS Approximately 56% of the participants were ostomy patients, of whom 65.9% were men. The average age of participating ostomy patients was 65.5 years old (SD = 12.9), and near 80% were retired/pensioners. Caregivers were mostly women (81.7%). More than half of the caregivers were employed and acquired products for a direct family member. Three in every four surgical interventions were consequences of cancer. Intestinal ostomy was the most common intervention (78.3%). More than 93% were satisfied with the acquisition of ostomy products at the pharmacy. Approximately 48.2% of ostomy patients received care from a specialized nurse. CONCLUSION This study describes the profile of people with ostomy and their caregivers who attend community pharmacies in Portugal. Participants' perceptions of the utility of different proposed services and pharmacist knowledge, as well as the low coverage of ostomy nursing care, highlight the opportunity for an extended role of pharmacists among this group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Romão
- Centre for Health Evaluation & Research/Infosaude - National Association of Pharmacies (CEFAR/IS-ANF), Rua Marechal Saldanha 1, 1249-069, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Débora Figueira
- Centre for Health Evaluation & Research/Infosaude - National Association of Pharmacies (CEFAR/IS-ANF), Rua Marechal Saldanha 1, 1249-069, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Heloísa Galante
- Centre for Health Evaluation & Research/Infosaude - National Association of Pharmacies (CEFAR/IS-ANF), Rua Marechal Saldanha 1, 1249-069, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - José Guerreiro
- Centre for Health Evaluation & Research/Infosaude - National Association of Pharmacies (CEFAR/IS-ANF), Rua Marechal Saldanha 1, 1249-069, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Sónia Romano
- Centre for Health Evaluation & Research/Infosaude - National Association of Pharmacies (CEFAR/IS-ANF), Rua Marechal Saldanha 1, 1249-069, Lisbon, Portugal.
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García-Agua Soler N, Gómez-Bermúdez E, Baixauli-Fernández VJ, Bellver-Beltrán S, Velasco-Martínez J, García Ruiz AJ, Jódar-Sánchez F. Medicines use review service in community pharmacies in Spain: REVISA project. Int J Clin Pharm 2020; 43:524-531. [PMID: 32996076 PMCID: PMC8214585 DOI: 10.1007/s11096-020-01158-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Background Community pharmacy services play an important role in controlling some factors related to medicine use and patients can benefit from these services to improve the adherence and knowledge of their medications, besides to reduce medicine-related problems. Objective The aim of the REVISA project is to carry out a study on preliminary implementation of the medicines use review service in Spanish community pharmacies. Setting Sixty-four community pharmacies from all regions of Spain. Method A preliminary implementation, cross-sectional multicentre study was conducted using a convenience sample of voluntary community pharmacies. A structured interview enabled to pharmacists to obtain a better understanding of patient's medicines use. Main outcome measure Medicines use review-related time and cost, satisfaction and willingness to pay. Results A total of 495 patients were enrolled. The mean age of the patients was 66.1 years, with the majority females (56.4%) and a mean consumption of 5.7 medicines. A total of 2811 medicines were evaluated and 550 referral recommendations were made (29.8% to Primary Care). The mean time employed by the pharmacists in the medicines use review service was 52.8 min (medicines use review-related cost of €17.27). Most patients expressed a high level of satisfaction with this service (98.5%) and a willingness to pay for it (84%). Conclusion Medicines use review service in community pharmacies in Spain can be delivered, that it appears to be acceptable to patients and that most patients said they would be willing to pay for it. This service may offer an opportunity to promote inter-professional collaboration between pharmacists and general practitioners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuria García-Agua Soler
- Chair of Health Economics and Rational Use of Drugs, Department of Pharmacology. University of Málaga, Boulevard Louis Pasteur, 32, 29071, Málaga, Spain.
- Pharmacoeconomics: Clinical and Economic Evaluation of Pharmaceutical Drugs and Palliative Care, Institute of Biomedical Research in Malaga (IBIMA), Málaga, Spain.
- Illustrious in the Official College of Pharmacists of Málaga, Málaga, Spain.
- Subcommittee Medicines Use Review, Spanish Society of Family and Community Pharmacy (SEFAC-Sociedad Española de Farmacia Familiar y Comunitaria), Madrid, Spain.
| | - Eugenia Gómez-Bermúdez
- Subcommittee Medicines Use Review, Spanish Society of Family and Community Pharmacy (SEFAC-Sociedad Española de Farmacia Familiar y Comunitaria), Madrid, Spain
| | - Vicente J Baixauli-Fernández
- Subcommittee Medicines Use Review, Spanish Society of Family and Community Pharmacy (SEFAC-Sociedad Española de Farmacia Familiar y Comunitaria), Madrid, Spain
| | - Sara Bellver-Beltrán
- Subcommittee Medicines Use Review, Spanish Society of Family and Community Pharmacy (SEFAC-Sociedad Española de Farmacia Familiar y Comunitaria), Madrid, Spain
| | - Javier Velasco-Martínez
- Subcommittee Medicines Use Review, Spanish Society of Family and Community Pharmacy (SEFAC-Sociedad Española de Farmacia Familiar y Comunitaria), Madrid, Spain
| | - Antonio J García Ruiz
- Chair of Health Economics and Rational Use of Drugs, Department of Pharmacology. University of Málaga, Boulevard Louis Pasteur, 32, 29071, Málaga, Spain
- Pharmacoeconomics: Clinical and Economic Evaluation of Pharmaceutical Drugs and Palliative Care, Institute of Biomedical Research in Malaga (IBIMA), Málaga, Spain
| | - Francisco Jódar-Sánchez
- Group in Biomedical Informatics, Biomedical Engineering and Health Economy, Institute of Biomedicine of Seville, IBiS/Virgen del Rocío University Hospital/CSIC/University of Seville, Seville, Spain
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Jokinen L, Puumalainen I, Airaksinen M. Factors associated with health service orientation and active product marketing orientation in Finnish community pharmacies: a nationwide study among private pharmacy owners. BMC Health Serv Res 2020; 20:667. [PMID: 32690013 PMCID: PMC7370436 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-020-05469-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2019] [Accepted: 06/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little is known about pharmacy owners' commitment to public health and health policy goals in the strategic planning of their business. The aim of this study was to explore factors associated with health service orientation and active product marketing orientation of Finnish community pharmacy owners. METHODS A national cross-sectional e-mail survey was sent to private community pharmacy owners in Finland (n = 581) in 2013. Based on the structured, Likert-type survey instrument, two sum scales measuring strategic orientation towards health service provision (13 items, score range 0-26) and active product marketing (8 items, score range 0-16) were developed (Cronbach's Alpha 0.836 and 0.699, respectively). Characteristics of the pharmacy owners and their pharmacy business as well as actual service provision were used as background variables. RESULTS Concerning health service orientation, 50% of the respondents received at least 20 points out of the maximum 26 points (score range: 0-26). For active product marketing orientation, 75% of the pharmacy owners had at least 14 points and 44% received full 16 points (score range: 0-16). The score distribution was skewed towards strong health service orientation, but the actual service score was heavily skewed towards few services or no services. Two-thirds of the pharmacy owners reported having available 2 or less services. The health service orientation was not influenced by any of the background variables used, but three of them influenced active product marketing orientation, namely business location, annual prescription volume and belonging to a marketing chain of individual community pharmacies. CONCLUSION Large pharmacies located close to rivals and belonging to marketing chains of individual community pharmacies differentiated as those having a high product marketing orientation. The health service orientation was not influenced by any of the explanatory variables used in this study. The discrepancy between high health service orientation scores and low actual service provision scores needs further investigation. The contradiction that exists between pharmaceutical policy goals and the generation of income of pharmacies should also be examined as a contributing factor in this respect.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Marja Airaksinen
- Clinical Pharmacy Group, Division of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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Langer B, Kunow C. Do north-eastern German pharmacies recommend a necessary medical consultation for acute diarrhoea? Magnitude and determinants using a simulated patient approach. F1000Res 2020; 8:1841. [PMID: 32089826 PMCID: PMC7014574 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.21045.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: In Germany, non-pharmacists (pharmacy technicians and pharmaceutical technical assistants) are permitted to advise on and sell medications in addition to pharmacists. The aim of this study was to determine if pharmacists and non-pharmacists referred patients to a medical consultation for a scenario in which consulting a doctor was mandatory ('appropriate outcome') and what the quality of questioning and - if a medication was dispensed - the quality of information provided were in this context. The study also aimed to determine which factors predicted a necessary referral to a doctor. Methods: A cross-sectional, covert simulated patient study was conducted in a random sample of community pharmacies stratified by location in the German state of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. Each pharmacy was visited once by one of four trained investigators. They simulated a symptom-based request involving a grandmother with acute diarrhoea. A multivariate binary logistic regression analysis using potential variables from bivariate analysis was carried out to determine the predictors for a referral to a doctor. Results: All 199 planned visits were conducted. A necessary referral to a doctor was recommended in 59.8% (n=119) of all visits. The most commonly asked question was 'for whom is the medication?' (75.4%, n=150), while 'clarification by a doctor' was asked the least (17.6%, n=35). In 87.9% (n=175) of all visits a medication was dispensed. Multivariate analysis revealed that, unlike pharmacists, non-pharmacists have a 2.446 times higher likelihood of recommending a referral to a doctor (p = 0.044; 95% CI = 1.025-5.835). Conclusions: In almost half of the visits a necessary referral to a doctor was not recommended. Furthermore, the quality of questioning and the quality of information were below expectations. Moreover, involvement of non‑pharmacists was surprisingly identified as a relevant factor influencing the appropriate outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernhard Langer
- Department of Health, Nursing, Management, University of Applied Sciences Neubrandenburg, Neubrandenburg, Germany
| | - Christian Kunow
- Department of Health, Nursing, Management, University of Applied Sciences Neubrandenburg, Neubrandenburg, Germany
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Koju P, Rousseau SP, Van der Putten M, Shrestha A, Shrestha R. Advertisement of antibiotics for upper respiratory infections and equity in access to treatment: a cross-sectional study in Nepal. J Pharm Policy Pract 2020; 13:4. [PMID: 32110416 PMCID: PMC7033932 DOI: 10.1186/s40545-020-0202-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2019] [Accepted: 02/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Pharmaceutical companies actively advertise their branded antibiotics, which influence their sales at community pharmacies. The major proportion of out of pocket health spending is on medicine; and affordability of antibiotics has always been a crucial issue in most developing countries. This study identified promotional activities adopted by pharmaceutical companies in community pharmacies and medicine shops and the affordability of selected antibiotics to clients with lowest wages in Kavrepalanchok district of Nepal. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among all community pharmacies and medicine shops (n = 34) in Dhulikhel and Banepa. Available pharmacists / personnel were interviewed, using a structured questionnaire, on the characteristics of the pharmacies, promotional activities, and sales and prices of antibiotics used to treat acute upper respiratory tract infections. This study looked at the association of promotional activities (financial bonus, free samples, and books/brochure/gifts) with the type of antibiotics. Further, affordability was assessed of the most popular antibiotics by comparing the total treatment cost against the lowest wage for unskilled workers in Nepal. Results Financial bonus, free samples, and brochures were the most popular promotional activities. It is also noticed that antibiotics which are top selling were those with a high number of promotional activities. Amoxicillin, azithromycin and amoxicillin+clavulanate had 42, 29 and 17 promotional activities respectively. Irrespective of the prices of antibiotics, almost all of the most popular antibiotics for acute upper respiratory infections were unaffordable for unskilled workers costing them more than a day’s wage. Conclusions Upper respiratory tract antibiotics are widely promoted at community pharmacies. The treatment cost of antibiotics is unaffordable for unskilled workers in Nepal irrespective of the type and unit cost of antibiotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pramesh Koju
- 1Dhulikhel Hospital, Kathmandu University Hospital, Dhulikhel, PO Box 11008, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | | | - Marc Van der Putten
- 3Center of Excellence in Global Health, Faculty of Public Health, Thammasat University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Archana Shrestha
- 1Dhulikhel Hospital, Kathmandu University Hospital, Dhulikhel, PO Box 11008, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Rajeev Shrestha
- 1Dhulikhel Hospital, Kathmandu University Hospital, Dhulikhel, PO Box 11008, Kathmandu, Nepal
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Pappaccogli M, Ravetto Enri L, Perlo E, Di Monaco S, Pignata I, Baratta F, Rabbia F, Mana M, Veglio F, Brusa P. Assessment of a non-physician screening program for hypertension and cardiovascular risk in community pharmacies. Nutr Metab Cardiovasc Dis 2019; 29:1316-1322. [PMID: 31383504 DOI: 10.1016/j.numecd.2019.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2018] [Revised: 06/30/2019] [Accepted: 07/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS The strategic role of prevention in hypertension setting is well known but, with the only exception of annually events promoted by international scientific societies, no other screening campaigns are available. Aim of this study was to assess the feasibility of a non-physician pharmacy-based screening program and to describe the cardiovascular risk and the BP status of participating subjects. METHODS AND RESULTS 2731 costumers participated to the screening program, answering to a questionnaire about personal cardiovascular risk and measuring their BP with an Omron HEM 1040-E. Since no threshold for hypertension diagnosis is currently available for community pharmacies BP measurements, we assessed high BP prevalence according to 3 different cut-offs (≥140/90, ≥135/85 and ≥ 130/80 mmHg) and compared normotensives and hypertensives on major cardiovascular risk factors. According to the proposed cut-offs, prevalence of hypertension was respectively of 31%, 45% and 59.5%, and it increased among younger subjects (31-65 y) when the lowest cut-offs were applied. High BP was found in a large percentage of subjects self-declared on-/not on-treatment (uncontrolled hypertensives) or normotensives (presumptive hypertensives) and among those not aware of their own BP values (presumptive hypertensives). Prevalence of CV risk factors was higher in hypertensives than in normotensives. CONCLUSIONS Our findings demonstrated that a community pharmacy-based screening is feasible and attracts the interests of many subjects, improving awareness on their BP status. The screening was also showed to be useful in order to detect potentially uncontrolled and/or suspected new hypertensives, especially among young adults, to refer to general practitioners for confirmatory diagnosis or further evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Pappaccogli
- Division of Internal Medicine and Hypertension, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Italy.
| | | | - Elisa Perlo
- Division of Internal Medicine and Hypertension, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Italy
| | - Silvia Di Monaco
- Division of Internal Medicine and Hypertension, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Italy
| | - Irene Pignata
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Turin, Italy
| | - Francesca Baratta
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Turin, Italy
| | - Franco Rabbia
- Division of Internal Medicine and Hypertension, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Italy
| | | | - Franco Veglio
- Division of Internal Medicine and Hypertension, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Italy
| | - Paola Brusa
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Turin, Italy
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Atif M, Asghar S, Mushtaq I, Malik I. Community pharmacists as antibiotic stewards: A qualitative study exploring the current status of Antibiotic Stewardship Program in Bahawalpur, Pakistan. J Infect Public Health 2020; 13:118-24. [PMID: 31548165 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiph.2019.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2019] [Revised: 06/23/2019] [Accepted: 07/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The World Health Organization released a Global Action Plan to overcome the threatening concerns of antibacterial resistance. One of the cornerstones of this plan is the Antibiotic Stewardship Program (ASP). The study aimed to assess the community pharmacists' knowledge, perceptions and current practices regarding ASP. METHODS A qualitative study was conducted in Bahawalpur, Pakistan, in which data were collected from the community pharmacists through in-depth, semi-structured interviews. The convenience sampling technique was used to recruit the study participants. Interview protocol was pilot tested and the sample size was limited by applying the saturation point criteria. All interviews were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. The thematic analysis approach was used to analyze the data and draw conclusions based on study objectives. RESULTS A total of fifteen community pharmacists were interviewed. Analysis of the data yielded five themes and 16 subthemes. All of the respondents had sound knowledge about the irrational use of antibiotics; however, they were oblivious about the ASP. After explaining the term, the respondents were of the opinion that these strategies could not be implemented in the current healthcare system of the country. According to the findings of the study, prescribing and dispensing practices were not followed. Only a few patients were educated about the antibiotics they were purchasing. CONCLUSION Most of the study participants were unaware of any ASP being offered in the community pharmacy settings. The study participants agreed to be the antibiotic stewards, but a number of obstacles were reported. The training of pharmacists, medication reconciliation, the implementation of the good pharmacy practice guidelines and assurance of pharmacist availability at drug retail outlets were few suggestions given by the study participants to incorporate the ASP in the community settings.
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van der Laan DM, Langendoen-Gort M, Nijpels G, Boons CCLM, Elders PJM, Hugtenburg JG. Implementation fidelity of an intervention programme to enhance adherence to antihypertensive medication in Dutch community pharmacies. Int J Clin Pharm 2019; 41:1031-1046. [PMID: 31093942 PMCID: PMC6677874 DOI: 10.1007/s11096-019-00845-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2018] [Accepted: 05/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Background Insight into the delivery of interventions is necessary to gain a better understanding of what caused an intervention to succeed or fail. The Cardiovascular medication non-Adherence Tailored Intervention (CATI) study failed to show effectiveness of a patient-tailored, pharmacist-led intervention programme on self-reported adherence to antihypertensive medication. Objective To evaluate the implementation fidelity of the CATI intervention programme. Setting Twenty Dutch community pharmacies. Method The process of a randomised controlled trial was evaluated. Both quantitative and qualitative data were collected and analysed according to Carrolls' Conceptual Framework for Implementation Fidelity. Implementation fidelity is defined as the degree to which the intervention was implemented as intended. Main outcome measure Four key intervention components of the intervention programme (i.e., first consultation: barrier identification, information and advice, written summary, and follow-up consultation). Results For most participants the key intervention components were implemented as intended. The training of pharmacists, intensive monitoring during the study and structured and easy-to-use intervention materials facilitated the implementation of the intervention. The method to select participants for the intervention programme was considered insufficient and pharmacists questioned the eligibility of some participants because of a low degree of intake non-adherence. Conclusion Implementation fidelity was moderate to high for all key intervention components. Therefore, the absence of effectiveness of the CATI intervention programme on self-reported medication adherence cannot be explained by poor implementation of the intervention. However, the limited genuine eligibility of some participants resulted in a limited potential for improvement in medication adherence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle M van der Laan
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Marlous Langendoen-Gort
- Department of General Practice and Elderly Care Medicine, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Giel Nijpels
- Department of General Practice and Elderly Care Medicine, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Christel C L M Boons
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Petra J M Elders
- Department of General Practice and Elderly Care Medicine, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jacqueline G Hugtenburg
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Amankwa CE, Bonful HA, Agyabeng K, Nortey PA. Dispensing practices for anti-malarials in the La Nkwantanang-Madina municipality, Greater Accra, Ghana: a cross-sectional study. Malar J 2019; 18:260. [PMID: 31362736 PMCID: PMC6668140 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-019-2897-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2019] [Accepted: 07/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Despite recent strides made towards reducing the emergence of artemisinin resistance, inappropriate dispensing practices for anti-malarials in both private and public sectors affect treatment outcomes negatively. In Ghana, private retail pharmacies are the most accessible health facilities for managing diseases of common occurrence. However, there is growing concern about the number of patients harmed by dispensing errors in the management of malaria in retail pharmacies. Although considerable work has been done in this area, several questions regarding dispensing practices remain unanswered. This study, therefore, sought to investigate the predictors of appropriate dispensing practices for anti-malarials in community pharmacies in the La Nkwantanang-Madina municipality of Greater Accra, Ghana. Methods A cross-sectional analytic study was conducted in sixty-one randomly selected community pharmacies in the La Nkwantanang-Madina. Data from 230 clients and 106 dispensers were analysed. It was checked for internal consistency and completeness then entered and analysed using STATA I/C version 14.0. Frequencies, Chi square tests, and logistic regression analyses were conducted, accounting for clustering. Results and discussion Of the 106 dispensers interviewed, 71.4% were medicine counter assistants. The mean age of dispensers was 30.4 years (SD 8.8). Over 88.0% of clients were advised to complete the full course of their anti-malarials. However, the 8-h loading dose principle for artemether-lumefantrine was not explained to 88.3% of the clients. More than half of the clients (52.2%) were given appropriate dispensing information on anti-malarial use. Most clients (66.1%), were dispensed anti-malarials without malaria tests. Dispensers with more than a 10-years experience were less likely to dispense artemisinin-based combinations appropriately relative to dispensers with less than 2 years experience (AOR = 0.04, 95% CI 0.002–0.802 p-value = 0.036) while pharmacy interns were about 19 times more likely (AOR = 18.5, 95% CI 1.40–245.6 p-value = 0.03) to dispense artemisinin-based combinations appropriately compared to pharmacists. Conclusion Dispensing practices for anti-malarials is unsatisfactory. There is a need to enforce existing legislation with educational programmes directed towards dispensers especially those with more than 10 years experience. Specific adherence to the World Health Organization Test, Treat and Track initiative should be encouraged to ensure effective use of anti-malarials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles Enyaah Amankwa
- Department of Epidemiology and Disease Control, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Legon, P.O Box LG 13, Accra, Ghana.
| | | | - Kofi Agyabeng
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Legon, P.O Box LG 13, Accra, Ghana
| | - Priscillia A Nortey
- Department of Epidemiology and Disease Control, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Legon, P.O Box LG 13, Accra, Ghana
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Yousuf SA, Alshakka M, Badulla WFS, Ali HS, Shankar PR, Mohamed Ibrahim MI. Attitudes and practices of community pharmacists and barriers to their participation in public health activities in Yemen: mind the gap. BMC Health Serv Res 2019; 19:304. [PMID: 31088459 PMCID: PMC6515656 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-019-4133-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2018] [Accepted: 04/29/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients in Yemen commonly visit community pharmacies to obtain consultation or treatment for common ailments. Community pharmacists have an opportunity to optimize medication use and improve patient outcomes. This study aimed to evaluate the attitudes and practices of community pharmacists regarding their participation in public health activities and barriers to their participation in these activities. METHODS This cross-sectional study was carried out among community pharmacists working in pharmacies located in urban areas of the Aden governorate of Yemen from March to June 2017 using a self-administered questionnaire. We selected pharmacies from a line list using proportional sampling according to the number of pharmacies in the urban areas of each district. The questionnaire contained four sections: demographic characteristics, attitudes, practices, and barriers encountered. Data were analyzed descriptively, and the Chi-square test was used for analyzing the association of variables (alpha = 0.05). RESULTS The questionnaire was distributed to 200 community pharmacists working in community pharmacies. Of the 200 respondents, 62% (n = 124) were male. Overall, the mean age (sd) was 30.0 years (8.6) with the number of years of work experience between 2 and 9.9 years (n = 158, 79%). On average, 62.3% of the pharmacists had a positive attitude toward participation in public health activities. Providing education to stop tobacco chewing, smoking, alcohol drinking and improve oral hygiene was an important activity of the community pharmacists. Blood pressure measurements (86%, n = 172) and glucose tests (45%, n = 90) were commonly conducted for clients. Lack of time (71%, n = 142) and lack of teamwork (70%, n = 140) were mentioned as common barriers to participation in public health activities. CONCLUSIONS Community pharmacists had a positive attitude toward public health activities. Health education and routine health tests were important practices of the community pharmacists. Barriers need to be overcome to enable more active participation by community pharmacists in public health activities by consulting with all stakeholders, assessing the situation, considering alternatives and taking action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seena A Yousuf
- Social Medicine and Public Health Department, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Aden University, Aden, Yemen
| | - Mohammed Alshakka
- Section of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Aden University, Aden, Yemen.
| | - Wafa F S Badulla
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Aden University, Aden, Yemen
| | - Heyam Saad Ali
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Dubai Pharmacy College, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - P Ravi Shankar
- Department of Pharmacology, Health City University, Gros Islet, Saint Lucia
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Gunn J, Higgs P. Directly observed hepatitis C treatment with opioid substitution therapy in community pharmacies: A qualitative study. Res Social Adm Pharm 2019; 16:1298-1301. [PMID: 31003763 DOI: 10.1016/j.sapharm.2019.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2018] [Revised: 03/22/2019] [Accepted: 04/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The hepatitis C virus (HCV) will only be eliminated through successful engagement with people who inject drugs (PWID), however some of this population experience socioeconomic and individual issues that can lead to poor HCV treatment adherence. A key sub-group of (PWID) are those who receive opioid substitution therapy (OST). In Australia, OST is most often delivered under direct supervision by a community pharmacist every day or multiple times a week. This regular interaction could be an ideal opportunity to enhance direct-acting antiviral (DAA) treatment adherence under directly observed therapy (DOT) by the pharmacist. AIM The aim of this study was to explore the perspectives of OST patients with a lived experience of HCV to understand whether or not dispensing DAAs in the same way as, or simultaneously with OST would benefit HCV treatment. METHODS Data collection occurred from June to August 2017. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a sample of PWID living with HCV and on OST programs (n = 12) in Melbourne, Australia. Interviews were voice recorded and transcribed in verbatim. Interpretive phenomenology guided analysis of the data. RESULTS Themes reported by participants that provide insight into the suitability of DOT of DAAs include: Adherence and non-adherence to DAA treatment; Mixed views towards DOT of DAAs; Experiences and perceptions of OST providers; and Perceived stigma in the pharmacy. CONCLUSIONS Community pharmacies offering OST may be an effective place for DOT of HCV treatment, but is likely only to benefit people who face significant challenges to adherence. We suggest that a positive pharmacist-patient relationship, high OST adherence, and commitment to reducing stigma in the pharmacy would be necessary for the intervention to be effective. Further research is needed to evaluate the expanded-role of community pharmacies in improving DAA adherence and eliminating HCV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack Gunn
- Disease Elimination, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
| | - Peter Higgs
- Disease Elimination, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Department of Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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Aziz MM, Yang S, Masood I, Zhu S, Raza MA, Ji W, Anwar N, Saeed A, Fang Y. An assessment of counseling quality provided by community pharmacies to type 2 diabetic adult patients for oral therapy: a simulated patient study from Pakistan. Endocr J 2019; 66:233-239. [PMID: 30726787 DOI: 10.1507/endocrj.ej18-0429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
This study was conducted to assess quality of counseling provided to type 2 diabetic patients. For this cross-sectional study, a simulated patient method was applied in 562 selected community pharmacies of Punjab, Pakistan. A scenario for the metformin oral therapy was developed that illustrates direct counseling for adult diabetic patients. Counseling and communication skills were also assessed. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were used for analysis. Only 29.4% of simulated patients received medication counseling directly; 47.6% received it on request. About 32.8% of clients were referred to a physician without counseling. The most frequently provided information was dietary instruction (94.8%) and dose of therapy (84.5%). Only one quarter (25.3%) of simulated patients were asked about disease duration and similar rate (25.0%) was found for discussions of special warnings. The side effects, drug storage, drug-drug interactions and duration of therapy were ignored. Minimal information was provided about other medication during therapy (0.2%) and effect of medicine withdrawal (2.7%). About 59.5% simulated patients were instructed for compliance to medication. Counseling to type 2 diabetic patients in Pakistani community pharmacies is not very satisfactory. Pharmacies' staff have little focus on counseling. Professional training of staff could improve counseling and communication skills.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Majid Aziz
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, P. R. China
- The Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, P. R. China
- Global Health Institute, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, P. R. China
- Shaanxi Center for Health Reform and Development Research, Xi'an, P. R. China
| | - Shimin Yang
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, P. R. China
- The Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, P. R. China
- Global Health Institute, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, P. R. China
- Shaanxi Center for Health Reform and Development Research, Xi'an, P. R. China
| | - Imran Masood
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy and Alternative Medicine, Railway Road Campus, Islamia University, Bahawalpur, Pakistan
| | - Shan Zhu
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, P. R. China
- The Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, P. R. China
- Global Health Institute, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, P. R. China
- Shaanxi Center for Health Reform and Development Research, Xi'an, P. R. China
| | - Muhammad Ali Raza
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, Pakistan
| | - Wenjing Ji
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, P. R. China
- The Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, P. R. China
- Global Health Institute, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, P. R. China
- Shaanxi Center for Health Reform and Development Research, Xi'an, P. R. China
| | - Naveed Anwar
- Department of Pharmacy, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Amna Saeed
- Punjab University College of Pharmacy, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Yu Fang
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, P. R. China
- The Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, P. R. China
- Global Health Institute, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, P. R. China
- Shaanxi Center for Health Reform and Development Research, Xi'an, P. R. China
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Jokinen L, Puumalainen I, Airaksinen M. Influence of strategic planning on product marketing and health service orientation of community pharmacies-A national survey in Finland. Health Policy 2019; 123:462-467. [PMID: 30808534 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthpol.2019.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2017] [Revised: 01/13/2019] [Accepted: 02/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to explore pharmacy owners' views on the strategic development of community pharmacies, particularly how strategic planning at the pharmacy level influences on product marketing and health service orientation of individual community pharmacies. The study was carried out as a national cross-sectional e-mail survey sent to all privately-owned Finnish community pharmacies (n = 581) in March 2013 (response rate 34%, n = 198). The pharmacy owners were asked about their strategy, product marketing and health services activities at the time of the survey and what they regarded as potential strategic developments by 2020. Of the responding pharmacy owners (n = 198), 63% reported their pharmacy had a strategy. The strategy was more common if the pharmacy owner had >10 years of experience as a pharmacy owner, the pharmacy had a high prescription volume (annually >100,000 prescriptions) and sales volume (annual turnover >5 million euros). Pharmacy owners' strategic vision by 2020 concerning health service orientation was the same regardless of having a strategy. Having a strategy was associated with the following variables indicating active product marketing orientation: the pharmacy had a person responsible for marketing campaigns and monitoring their success, and the pharmacy actively invested in add-on sales. Economic uncertainty of community pharmacies is an unresolved issue driving them towards active product marketing even they strategically prioritized health service orientation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lenita Jokinen
- Runosmäki Pharmacy, Turku, Finland; Clinical Pharmacy Group, Division of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Finland.
| | | | - Marja Airaksinen
- Clinical Pharmacy Group, Division of Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Helsinki, Finland
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Ganle JK, Busia NT, Maya E. Availability and prescription of misoprostol for medical abortion in community pharmacies and associated factors in Accra, Ghana. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2018; 144:167-173. [PMID: 30451283 DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.12717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2018] [Revised: 08/28/2018] [Accepted: 11/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess misoprostol availability at community pharmacies and determine factors affecting misoprostol prescription for medical abortion. METHODS A cross-sectional quantitative survey of randomly sampled community pharmacies and their corresponding pharmacists/pharmacy workers was conducted in the city of Accra, Ghana. Structured questionnaires were administered to collect data between May 1 and July 28, 2016. Descriptive statistics (frequencies and proportions) and bivariate and logistic regression analysis were used to analyze the data. RESULTS Of the 165 community pharmacies surveyed, approximately half (83 [50.3%]) stocked misoprostol. Availability of misoprostol however decreased when moving from first class to third class residential areas. 44 (26.7%) of the respondents had prescribed the drug at some time for medical abortion, but 140 (84.6%) indicated they would not prescribe the drug for medical abortion in future. Factors that significantly predicted misoprostol prescription for medical abortion included sex of the pharmacist/pharmacy worker, demand, and availability of misoprostol. CONCLUSIONS Demand for misoprostol for medical abortion was found to be high but only half of community pharmacies stocked it, and most pharmacy workers did not wish to prescribe the drug. If community pharmacies are to effectively contribute to expanding access to safe abortion services in Ghana, the disparity between misoprostol provision and demand needs to be addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- John K Ganle
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana.,Stellenbosch Institute for Advanced Study, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Nana T Busia
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Ernest Maya
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
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Wehbi NK, Wani RJ, Klepser DG, Murry J, Khan AS. Impact of implementing a technology platform in community pharmacies to increase adult immunizations rates. Vaccine 2019; 37:56-60. [PMID: 30471954 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2018.11.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2018] [Revised: 11/08/2018] [Accepted: 11/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Over the course of this project, we utilized pharmacists at 159 community pharmacies in Nebraska and Iowa to administer vaccinations to adults 19 years of age or older with the objective of improving immunization rates in both states. We implemented a pharmacy-based technology platform and partnered with public health via the state immunization registries of both states to ensure that immunizations provided at the pharmacy were transmitted to the statewide registry, for which reporting is currently voluntary for health care providers. After using the technology platform for one year, an increase of immunization rates for influenza, herpes zoster, and pertussis vaccination rates by 37%, 12%, and 74%, respectively, was recorded in comparison to the prior year numbers. However, there was about 16% decrease in vaccination rates for pneumococcal vaccine. For the first time, the project's participating pharmacies in Nebraska reported immunization counts to their state's immunization registries. This project leveraged community pharmacies as healthcare destinations to achieve further gains in increasing immunization rates, improving the health of adults, and creating a community-wide network for prevention.
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Alhusein N, Killick K, Macaden L, Smith A, Stoddart K, Taylor A, Kroll T, Watson MC. "We're really not ready for this": A qualitative exploration of community pharmacy personnel's perspectives on the pharmaceutical care of older people with sensory impairment. Disabil Health J 2018; 12:242-248. [PMID: 30392961 PMCID: PMC6436755 DOI: 10.1016/j.dhjo.2018.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2018] [Revised: 10/15/2018] [Accepted: 10/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Background In most developed countries there is an increasing ageing population living in the community with long-term conditions and sensory impairment (sight; hearing; dual impairment). Community pharmacy personnel are key providers of pharmaceutical care to this patient population. Objective This study explored community pharmacy personnel's experiences with providing pharmaceutical care for older people with sensory impairment. Methods Semi-structured telephone interviews were conducted with community pharmacy personnel across Scotland between 2015 and 2016. Results Thirty interviews were completed with community pharmacists (n = 17) and other pharmacy personnel (n = 13). Two overarching themes emerged: safety and communication. Interviewees reported patients' reluctance to disclose their impairment “patients are very good at hiding it” and had considerable safety concerns “it's a fear that they're going to take too much … accidentally taking the same medicine twice”. Difficulties in communication were cited “no matter what you do or how you label things, leaflets and telling people, things can go wrong”. Additionally, interviewees identified training needs to increase their disability awareness and to identify strategies to provide safe and reliable pharmaceutical care to this vulnerable group “We don't specifically have anything in place to deal with anyone with impairments of that kind”. Conclusions This is the first in-depth exploration of providing pharmaceutical care to older people with sensory impairment from the perspective of community pharmacy personnel. Strategies are needed to encourage older people to disclose their sensory impairment. Education and training are also needed to optimise the provision of pharmaceutical care to this vulnerable population.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Alhusein
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University of Bath, Bath, BA27AY, England, UK.
| | - K Killick
- NMAHP Research Unit, Unit 13 Scion House, University of Stirling Innovation Park, University of Stirling, Stirling, Scotland, FK9 4NF, UK.
| | - L Macaden
- Department of Nursing, University of the Highlands & Islands, Centre for Health Science, Old Perth Road, Inverness, IV2 3JH, Scotland, UK.
| | - A Smith
- Department of Nursing, University of the Highlands & Islands, Centre for Health Science, Old Perth Road, Inverness, IV2 3JH, Scotland, UK.
| | - K Stoddart
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Sport, University of Stirling, Stirling, FK9 4LA, Scotland, UK.
| | - A Taylor
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University of Bath, Bath, BA27AY, England, UK.
| | - T Kroll
- Midwifery and Health Systems, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland.
| | - M C Watson
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University of Bath, Bath, BA27AY, England, UK.
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50
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Taylor DG, Giuliano F, Hackett G, Hermes-DeSantis E, Kirby MG, Kloner RA, Maguire T, Stecher V, Goggin P. The pharmacist's role in improving the treatment of erectile dysfunction and its underlying causes. Res Social Adm Pharm 2018; 15:591-599. [PMID: 30057329 DOI: 10.1016/j.sapharm.2018.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2018] [Accepted: 07/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Erectile dysfunction (ED), which worldwide is likely to affect in excess of 300 million men by 2025, is often either untreated or insufficiently treated. It can be a prelude to other serious illnesses and may be a cause or consequence of depression in affected individuals. Among men younger than 60 years of age, ED can be a robust early-stage indicator of vascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Untreated or inadequately treated ED can also be a sign of poor communication between health professionals and service users of all ages. Improved treatment of ED could cost-effectively prevent premature deaths and avoidable morbidity. The extension of community pharmacy‒based health care would enable more men living with ED to safely access effective medications, along with appropriate diagnostic services and support for beneficial lifestyle changes such as smoking cessation in conveniently accessible settings. The task of introducing improved methods of affordably addressing problems linked to ED exemplifies the strategic challenges now facing health care systems globally. Promoting professionally supported self-care in pharmacies has the potential to meet the needs of aging populations in progressively more effective ways.
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Affiliation(s)
- David G Taylor
- The UCL School of Pharmacy, 29-39 Brunswick Square, Bloomsbury, London, WC1N 1AX, UK.
| | - Francois Giuliano
- Neurourology R. Poincaré Hal Garches, Versailles Saint-Quentin University, 104 Boulevard Raymond Poincaré, Garches, 92380, France.
| | - Geoff Hackett
- Good Hope Hospital, Rectory Road, Sutton Coldfield, Birmingham, B75 7RR, UK.
| | - Evelyn Hermes-DeSantis
- Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, 160 Frelinghuysen Road, New Brunswick, NJ, 08854, USA.
| | - Michael G Kirby
- The Prostate Centre, 32 Wimpole St, Marylebone, London W1G 8GT, UK; University of Hertfordshire, Centre for Research in Primary and Community Care, College Lane, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, AL10 9AB, UK.
| | - Robert A Kloner
- Huntington Medical Research Institutes, 686 S Fair Oaks Ave, Pasadena, CA 91105, USA; Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Dept. of Medicine, Keck School of Medicine at University of Southern California, 1975 Zonal Avenue, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA.
| | - Terry Maguire
- Queens University Belfast, University Road, Belfast, BT7 1NN, UK, Ireland.
| | - Vera Stecher
- Pfizer Inc, 235 E 42nd St, New York, NY, 10017, USA.
| | - Paul Goggin
- Pfizer Ltd, Discovery Park, Ramsgate Rd, Sandwich, CT13 9ND, UK.
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