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Meadors C, McPheeters C, Maier C, O'Reilly E. Health-system specialty pharmacy: Overview of a hybrid clinical model. Am J Health Syst Pharm 2024; 81:e256-e260. [PMID: 38146967 DOI: 10.1093/ajhp/zxad333] [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: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The prevalence of specialty pharmacies has grown, especially within the hospital setting. These pharmacies have shown benefits in the areas of patient education and adherence, financial support, and patient and provider satisfaction. Currently, there are gaps in literature describing use of a hybrid clinical model in health-system specialty pharmacies. SUMMARY The UofL Health - UofL Hospital Specialty Pharmacy (UofL Health SP) is attached to a retail pharmacy in a larger health system. Pharmacists in the UofL Health SP utilize a hybrid clinical model in which they split their time between working in a specialty clinic and staffing in the specialty pharmacy. The specialty pharmacy and its oncology satellite pharmacy each have a primary staffing pharmacist, and 5 other pharmacists participate in this hybrid clinical model. In addition to the specialty pharmacists, pharmacy technicians and patient care advocates support the operations of the specialty pharmacy and ensure financial access to medications for patients. CONCLUSION With the hybrid clinical model at UofL Health SP, there is increased workflow efficiency and better communication between specialty clinics and the specialty pharmacy, which results in a streamlined patient experience. Additionally, there has been an increase in specialty pharmacy prescriptions dispensed in the specialty pharmacy since the implementation of this hybrid clinical model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Crystal Meadors
- UofL Health - UofL Hospital Specialty Pharmacy, Louisville, KY, USA
| | | | - Chelsea Maier
- UofL Health - UofL Hospital Specialty Pharmacy, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Emily O'Reilly
- UofL Health - UofL Hospital Specialty Pharmacy, Louisville, KY, USA
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Arrona KL. Implementation of a technician success and onboarding coordinator to reduce technician turnover. Am J Health Syst Pharm 2024; 81:e249-e255. [PMID: 38141655 DOI: 10.1093/ajhp/zxad323] [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: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/25/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This article provides an overview of changes implemented at an academic medical center to reduce pharmacy technician turnover. SUMMARY Pharmacy technician turnover has been a problem for years. Technicians come and go; they move on to other positions, and continuous turnover is an avoidable expense. With greater focus on creating a successful onboarding experience for newly hired technicians, turnover should decrease and satisfaction and engagement should increase. When a newly hired technician leaves a department within the first year, it can have a negative impact on the engagement of the remaining technicians who spent time training new hires in how to complete tasks, mentoring them, and incorporating them into the team. Creating a positive onboarding experience will decrease expenses accrued and minimize wasted resources and staff time dedicated to a technician who will not be around in 6 months to 1 year. At M Health Fairview, a Minneapolis, MN-based health system, technician retention has been improved through a standardized approach to onboarding and orientation, including creation of the new staff role of technician success and onboarding coordinator (TSOC). CONCLUSION A standard approach to onboarding pharmacy technicians and integrating them into the pharmacy department has proven to be essential to technician retention at M Health Fairview. To get started, it is important to find the right person for the TSOC role to coordinate successful onboarding of newly hired pharmacy technicians. That person should be an individual with passion to engage and inspire newly hired technicians, with several years of experience, and with the ability to cascade knowledge.
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Thames L, Johnston C, Cash J, Holder M, Voils A. Implementation of a pharmacy technician career ladder and pharmacy technician training program. Am J Health Syst Pharm 2024:zxae063. [PMID: 38530790 DOI: 10.1093/ajhp/zxae063] [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: 03/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
DISCLAIMER In an effort to expedite the publication of articles, AJHP is posting manuscripts online as soon as possible after acceptance. Accepted manuscripts have been peer-reviewed and copyedited, but are posted online before technical formatting and author proofing. These manuscripts are not the final version of record and will be replaced with the final article (formatted per AJHP style and proofed by the authors) at a later time. PURPOSE To describe the implementation of a pharmacy technician career ladder and internal technician training program at UF Health Shands Hospital in Gainesville, Florida. SUMMARY As the systems for providing care and receiving reimbursement become more complex, the ability to deliver comprehensive care in the most efficient and effective manner is critical. In order to maximize impact, pharmacists must practice at the top of their license. Recruitment and retention practices that support an optimized pharmacy technician workforce and continued expansion of technician roles are vital to advancement of pharmacy practice. This report describes the efforts to improve technician recruitment, professional development, and retention through the implementation of a technician career ladder and internal training program. The programs contributed to a reduction in technician rolling 12-month turnover rates from 26.72% in July 2015 to 13.1% in March 2023 (a reduction of 51%). Overtime hours as a percentage of total hours worked were reduced from 11.02% in July 2015 to 4.54% in March 2023 (a reduction of 59%). Improvements were noted in pharmacy technician job satisfaction, as evidenced by key employee engagement indicators including responses to the posed statement "Overall, I am a satisfied employee," with a mean score of 3.32 (on a scale of 0-5) in 2015 as compared to 4.2 in 2019 (a 21% increase). CONCLUSION Implementation of a pharmacy technician career ladder and technician training program creates a sustainable and effective recruitment and retention pathway that may favorably impact technician job satisfaction, turnover, and career development opportunities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Thames
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Florida Health Shands Hospital, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Corry Johnston
- Department of Pharmacy, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - Julie Cash
- Presbyterian College School of Pharmacy, Clinton, SC, USA
| | | | - Alissa Voils
- Department of Pharmacy, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
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Fuschetto KS, Amin KA, Gothard MD, Merico EM. Evaluating the Role of Pharmacy Technician-Administered Vaccines. J Pharm Pract 2023; 36:1383-1391. [PMID: 35938480 DOI: 10.1177/08971900221117893] [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] [Indexed: 11/08/2023]
Abstract
Background: Before the COVID-19 pandemic, most states limited administration of vaccines to trained pharmacists and pharmacy interns. In October 2020 due to the public health emergency, the Federal Public Readiness and Emergency Preparedness Act (PREP Act) authorized qualified pharmacy technicians to administer vaccines nationally. Currently available research on the perception of pharmacy technician-administered vaccines is limited. Objectives: The primary objective was to evaluate the perceptions of licensed pharmacists and pharmacy technicians regarding pharmacy technician-administered vaccines. The secondary objective was to analyze correlations between demographic data and the perceptions of respondents. Methods: An anonymous, 24-question survey including 5-point Likert-scale and ranking type questions was distributed using Qualtrics® survey software to licensed pharmacists and pharmacy technicians in the state of Ohio. Results: Total of 52,240 pharmacists and pharmacy technicians were invited to participate in the survey, 26,226 viewed the e-mail and 2179 responses were collected, yielding a response rate of 8.3%. Results showed 65.9% (n = 365) of pharmacists and 76.2% (n = 675) of pharmacy technicians agreed that trained pharmacy technicians should be able to administer vaccines post-COVID-19 pandemic. Conclusion: Licensed pharmacists and pharmacy technicians in the state of Ohio support the continued administration of vaccines by trained pharmacy technicians fostering the need for legislative change.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kunal A Amin
- Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, OH, USA
| | | | - Erin M Merico
- Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, OH, USA
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Skoy E, Frenzel O, Pajunen H, Eukel H. Implementation of a Pharmacy Follow-Up Program for Dispensed Opioid Medications. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2023; 20:6628. [PMID: 37681768 PMCID: PMC10487139 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20176628] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There have been multiple reported pharmacy initiatives to reduce opioid misuse and accidental overdose to address our nation's public health crisis. To date, there has not been a description in the literature of a community pharmacy follow-up initiative for dispensed opioids. METHODS A follow-up program was designed and implemented in community pharmacies as part of a previously developed opioid overdose and misuse prevention program (ONE Program). Five to twelve days after the dispensing of an opioid, pharmacy technicians called the patient to follow up on opioid safety topics. Pharmacy technicians used a questionnaire to inquire about medication disposal plans, if the patient was taking the medication more than prescribed, medication side effects, and if the patient needed a pharmacist consultation. The results from that questionnaire were documented. RESULTS During the first 18 months of the follow-up program, 1789 phone calls were completed. Of those contacted, 40% were still using their opioid medication, and over 10% were experiencing side effects which triggered a pharmacist consult. Patients were reminded of proper medication disposal methods, and most patients (78%) desired to dispose of unused medication at the pharmacy medication disposal box. CONCLUSIONS Follow-up phone calls post-opioid medication dispensing were shown to add value to a previously established opioid misuse and accidental overdose prevention program and allowed for the fulfillment of the Pharmacist Patient Care Process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Skoy
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, School of Pharmacy, North Dakota State University, Dept 2660, Fargo, ND 58108, USA; (O.F.); (H.P.); (H.E.)
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Mizranita V, Hughes JD, Sunderland B, Sim TF. Pharmacists and Pharmacy Technicians' Perceptions of Scopes of Practice Employing Agency Theory in the Management of Minor Ailments in Central Indonesian Community Pharmacies: A Qualitative Study. Pharmacy (Basel) 2023; 11:132. [PMID: 37736905 PMCID: PMC10514829 DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy11050132] [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: 04/02/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Community pharmacy staff assist in the management of minor ailments. Agency Theory underpins relationships between health professionals and patients. This study explores pharmacists' and pharmacy technicians' perceived scopes of practice of minor ailment services in community pharmacies. Twelve one-on-one semi-structured interviews used an open-ended interview guide for each cohort of community pharmacists and pharmacy technicians, between June and July 2021. Purposive sampling selected a diversity of pharmacists and pharmacy technicians. Interviews were transcribed verbatim, thematically analysed assisted by NVivo version 20. Agency Theory aided the interpretation. Three main themes emerged: (1) inconsistencies in practice, (2) the lack of understanding of the scopes of practice of pharmacists and pharmacy technicians, and (3) provision of prescription-only medicines for some minor ailments or to fulfil patient requests. Several sub-themes included pharmacy staff involvement, education and training, provision of prescription-only medicines, and weak regulatory enforcement. Agency Theory indicated pharmacy patients (principals) delegated authority to pharmacists and pharmacy technicians (agents), which was confused by partial pharmacist absence. The lack of defined scopes of practice for pharmacists and pharmacy technicians disrupted established professional relationships. The scopes of practice and roles of the pharmacist and pharmacy technicians should be clearly defined, assisted by practice guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinci Mizranita
- Department of Pharmacy, Universitas Sebelas Maret, JL. Ir. Sutami No. 36A Kentingan, Surakarta 57126, Indonesia
- Pharmacy, Curtin Medical School, Curtin University, Bentley, Perth, WA 6102, Australia; (J.D.H.); (B.S.); (T.F.S.)
| | - Jeffery David Hughes
- Pharmacy, Curtin Medical School, Curtin University, Bentley, Perth, WA 6102, Australia; (J.D.H.); (B.S.); (T.F.S.)
| | - Bruce Sunderland
- Pharmacy, Curtin Medical School, Curtin University, Bentley, Perth, WA 6102, Australia; (J.D.H.); (B.S.); (T.F.S.)
| | - Tin Fei Sim
- Pharmacy, Curtin Medical School, Curtin University, Bentley, Perth, WA 6102, Australia; (J.D.H.); (B.S.); (T.F.S.)
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Adams AJ. Extending COVID-19 Pharmacy Technician Duties: Impact on Safety and Pharmacist Jobs. J Pharm Technol 2023; 39:134-138. [PMID: 37323767 PMCID: PMC10209718 DOI: 10.1177/87551225231172343] [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] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: The 2019 coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19) led to an expanded scope of practice for pharmacy technicians. As the pandemic wanes, state governments are faced with the decision of whether or not to make permanent the authority of pharmacy technicians to perform extended duties. Objective: Determine the impacts on patient safety and job market demands preadoption and postadoption of Idaho's expanded technician duties in 2017 as a natural experiment for expanded technician duties. Methods: Data from the National Practitioner Data Bank (NPDB) is used to explore patient safety outcomes in Idaho preadoption and postadoption and as compared with its border states. Data from Pharmacy Demand Reports is used to compare job postings in Idaho and its border state, and National Association of Boards of Pharmacy census data are used to compare growth in the number of pharmacists and technicians in Idaho and its border states over time. Results: For Idaho pharmacists, the average number of disciplinary actions reported against both pharmacists and technicians dropped after implementation of expanded technician duties. Idaho also had a lower rate of discipline for pharmacists and technicians than its border states. Idaho had the third highest job postings for pharmacists and the second highest for technicians among its border states. Idaho also had the largest growth in the number of licensed pharmacists and technicians of the observed states in the study period. Conclusion: Available statewide data from Idaho as compared with its border states suggests that expanded technician duties did not adversely impact patient safety outcomes or the pharmacist job market. Additional states may wish to expand pharmacy technician duties in the years ahead.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex J. Adams
- Idaho Division of Financial Management, Eagle, ID, USA
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Kjeldsen LJ, Schlünsen M, Meijers A, Hansen S, Christensen C, Bender T, Ratajczyk B. Medication Dispensing by Pharmacy Technicians Improves Efficiency and Patient Safety at a Geriatric Ward at a Danish Hospital: A Pilot Study. Pharmacy (Basel) 2023; 11:pharmacy11030082. [PMID: 37218964 DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy11030082] [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: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aims to evaluate medication dispensing by pharmacy technicians at a geriatric inpatient ward at a Danish hospital. METHODS Four pharmacy technicians were trained in delivering a dispensing service at a geriatric ward. At baseline, the ward nurses recorded the time spent dispensing the medication and the number of interruptions. Similar recordings were completed twice during the period in which the pharmacy technicians delivered the dispensing service. Satisfaction among the ward staff with the dispensing service was assessed by a questionnaire. Reported medication errors were collected during the dispensing service period and compared to a similar time period during the previous two years. RESULTS The time spent on dispensing medications was on average reduced with 1.4 h per day ranging from 4.7 to 3.3 h per day when the pharmacy technicians performed the service. Interruptions during the dispensing process decreased from a daily average of more than 19 times to an average of 2-3 per day. The nursing staff reported positive feedback on the medication dispensing service provided, especially about easing their workload. There was a tendency toward decreased reporting of medication errors. CONCLUSION The medication dispensing service performed by the pharmacy technicians reduced time spent on dispensing medication and increased patient safety by reducing interruptions during the process and decreasing the number of medication errors reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lene Juel Kjeldsen
- The Hospital Pharmacy, University Hospital Sønderjylland, 6200 Aabenraa, Denmark
- Institute for Regional Health Research, The University of Southern Denmark, 5000 Odense, Denmark
| | - Maja Schlünsen
- The Hospital Pharmacy, University Hospital Sønderjylland, 6200 Aabenraa, Denmark
- Institute for Regional Health Research, The University of Southern Denmark, 5000 Odense, Denmark
| | - Annette Meijers
- The Hospital Pharmacy, University Hospital Sønderjylland, 6200 Aabenraa, Denmark
| | - Steffan Hansen
- The Hospital Pharmacy, University Hospital Sønderjylland, 6200 Aabenraa, Denmark
| | | | - Tanja Bender
- Brain and Nerve Diseases, University Hospital Sønderjylland, 6200 Aabenraa, Denmark
| | - Barbara Ratajczyk
- Medical Diseases, University Hospital Sønderjylland, 6200 Aabenraa, Denmark
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Street KA, Taylor ADJ. A consensus building study to define the role of a 'clinical' pharmacy technician in a Primary Care Network environment in England. Int J Pharm Pract 2023; 31:62-69. [PMID: 36350980 DOI: 10.1093/ijpp/riac077] [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: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To define criteria of the role of a clinical pharmacy technician that can be applied to the Primary Care Network environment in England. METHOD Consensus building study using Delphi methodology conducted in three stages: Stage 1: topic generation from a literature review; Stage 2: Delphi process via Jisc Online Surveys; Stage 3: analysis and presentation of identified topics. KEY FINDINGS A consensus-defined list of 61 criteria appropriate for the role description of a clinical pharmacy technician across all healthcare sectors was derived. This was refined to 35 criteria considered most important to the role of a clinical pharmacy technician working in a Primary Care Network environment. A qualitative analysis of expert panel comments identified the importance of defining the level at which a pharmacy technician conducts each element of the role, suggesting they would be working at an 'advanced' level. Due to the advanced nature of this role, day-to-day supervision would be less than that of a pharmacy technician, and usually conducted by a pharmacist. This research supports existing international literature that a clinical pharmacy technician role releases capacity for other healthcare professionals to focus on more complex patient cases. CONCLUSION This research has provided a defined list of criteria considered appropriate for the role description of a clinical pharmacy technician. The need to evidence levels of pharmacy technician practice against recognised competency frameworks alongside clear role descriptors was noted. This study adds to the limited international research about pharmacy technician roles and supports the International Pharmaceutical Federation Pharmaceutical workforce development goals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerry A Street
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Bath, Bath, UK
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10
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O'Neil DP, Henderson JM, Gifford HR, Karpinski TA, Kaminsky L. Building a pharmacy technician structure for the future: A lesson from a multihospital academic health system. Am J Health Syst Pharm 2023; 80:304-311. [PMID: 36370423 DOI: 10.1093/ajhp/zxac338] [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: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Over the past decade there has been increased attention on the need for highly skilled and trained pharmacy technicians; however, few best practices to assist health-system pharmacies in meeting technician workforce challenges have been identified. These challenges have been further revealed since 2019 through rising inflation, increased cost of living, and competing opportunities for skilled technical workers. This article describes an 18-hospital academic health system's experience implementing an innovative pharmacy technician career structure focused on increasing pharmacy technician engagement as well as improving recruitment and retention. METHODS Prior to creating a new career structure, the department of pharmacy had one development track for pharmacy technicians, which included only 2 nonsupervisory job titles. Due to recruitment, retention, and employee engagement challenges, the department of pharmacy, in collaboration with the human resources department, developed a new pharmacy technician structure that included 3 pharmacy technician tracks and 4 nonsupervisory levels. Outcomes collected to determine the success of the program included pharmacy technician engagement survey scores, annual voluntary turnover rate, rolling 12-month voluntary turnover rate, monthly vacancy rate, and average years of service at termination. The monthly discharge prescription capture rate was also measured to support efforts to keep the cost of the new structure budget neutral. CONCLUSION The change in career structure assisted in the improvement of each outcome identified. The close collaboration of the departments of pharmacy and human resources can lead to positive solutions of national problems and have a sustained impact on department operations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel P O'Neil
- West Virginia University Hospitals, Morgantown, WV.,West Virginia University School of Pharmacy, Morgantown, WV, USA
| | | | | | - Todd A Karpinski
- West Virginia University Health System, Morgantown, WV.,West Virginia University School of Pharmacy, Morgantown, WV, USA
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Aldhaeefi M, Badreldin HA, Alsuwayyid F, Alqahtani T, Alshaya O, Al Yami MS, Bin Saleh K, Al Harbi SA, Alshaya AI. Practical Guide for Anticoagulant and Antiplatelet Reversal in Clinical Practice. Pharmacy (Basel) 2023; 11:pharmacy11010034. [PMID: 36827672 PMCID: PMC9963371 DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy11010034] [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: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, anticoagulant and antiplatelet use have increased over the past years for the prevention and treatment of several cardiovascular conditions. Due to the rising use of antithrombotic medications and the complexity of specific clinical cases requiring such therapies, bleeding remains the primary concern among patients using antithrombotics. Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) include rivaroxaban, apixaban, edoxaban, and betrixaban. Direct thrombin inhibitors (DTIs) include argatroban, bivalirudin, and dabigatran. DOACs are associated with lower rates of fatal, life-threatening, and significant bleeding risks compared to those of warfarin. The immediate reversal of these agents can be indicated in an emergency setting. Antithrombotic reversal recommendations are still in development. Vitamin K and prothrombin complex concentrate (PCCs) can be used for warfarin reversal. Andexanet alfa and idarucizumab are specific reversal agents for DOACs and DTIs, respectively. Protamine sulfate is the solely approved reversal agent for unfractionated heparin (UFH) and low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH). However, there are no specific reversal agents for antiplatelets. This article aims to provide a practical guide for clinicians regarding the reversal of anticoagulants and antiplatelets in clinical practice based on the most recent studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Aldhaeefi
- Department of Clinical and Administrative Pharmacy Sciences, Howard University College of Pharmacy, Washington, DC 20059, USA
- Correspondence:
| | - Hisham A. Badreldin
- Pharmaceutical Care Services, King Abdulaziz Medical Center, Riyadh 11426, Saudi Arabia
- College of Pharmacy, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh 11426, Saudi Arabia
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Riyadh 11426, Saudi Arabia
| | - Faisal Alsuwayyid
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh 11426, Saudi Arabia
| | - Tariq Alqahtani
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh 11426, Saudi Arabia
| | - Omar Alshaya
- Pharmaceutical Care Services, King Abdulaziz Medical Center, Riyadh 11426, Saudi Arabia
- College of Pharmacy, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh 11426, Saudi Arabia
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Riyadh 11426, Saudi Arabia
| | - Majed S. Al Yami
- Pharmaceutical Care Services, King Abdulaziz Medical Center, Riyadh 11426, Saudi Arabia
- College of Pharmacy, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh 11426, Saudi Arabia
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Riyadh 11426, Saudi Arabia
| | - Khalid Bin Saleh
- Pharmaceutical Care Services, King Abdulaziz Medical Center, Riyadh 11426, Saudi Arabia
- College of Pharmacy, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh 11426, Saudi Arabia
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Riyadh 11426, Saudi Arabia
| | - Shmeylan A. Al Harbi
- Pharmaceutical Care Services, King Abdulaziz Medical Center, Riyadh 11426, Saudi Arabia
- College of Pharmacy, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh 11426, Saudi Arabia
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Riyadh 11426, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulrahman I. Alshaya
- Pharmaceutical Care Services, King Abdulaziz Medical Center, Riyadh 11426, Saudi Arabia
- College of Pharmacy, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh 11426, Saudi Arabia
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Riyadh 11426, Saudi Arabia
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12
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Sparkmon W, Barnard M, Rosenthal M, Desselle S, Ballou JM, Holmes E. Pharmacy Technician Efficacies and Workforce Planning: A Consensus Building Study on Expanded Pharmacy Technician Roles. Pharmacy (Basel) 2023; 11:pharmacy11010028. [PMID: 36827666 PMCID: PMC9961539 DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy11010028] [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: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The expansion of pharmacy technician scope of practice in recent years, though remaining somewhat contentious, has afforded multiple opportunities for pharmacy technicians to provide additional assistance within the pharmacy. However, much of the research examining this growth has focused on specific tasks, which were determined by either the researchers themselves or the respective state boards of pharmacy. This study aimed to gain a better understanding of what expanded tasks pharmacists believe technicians should have an increased role in performing. A consensus-building research methodology was used to survey practicing pharmacists to determine which tasks those pharmacists believed technicians should take an increased role in performing. This study used modified Delphi techniques to build consensus among panels of both hospital and community pharmacists regarding 20 setting-specific technician tasks. Results of our study indicated that both hospital and community pharmacists believed technicians should have an increased involvement in performing tasks which are more related to the operations of the pharmacy rather than tasks which are more clinical in nature. This finding illustrates a belief among a segment of pharmacists that expanded roles for technicians should do more to alleviate the managerial and operational burden placed on pharmacists, potentially allowing pharmacists to take on increased clinical roles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wesley Sparkmon
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Creighton University School of Pharmacy and Health Professions, Omaha, NE 68178, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-(402)-280-1857
| | - Marie Barnard
- Department of Pharmacy Administration, University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy, University, MS 38677, USA
| | - Meagen Rosenthal
- Department of Pharmacy Administration, University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy, University, MS 38677, USA
| | - Shane Desselle
- College of Pharmacy, Touro University California, Vallejo, CA 94592, USA
| | - Jordan Marie Ballou
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy & Outcomes Sciences, University of South Carolina College of Pharmacy, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
| | - Erin Holmes
- Department of Pharmacy Administration, University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy, University, MS 38677, USA
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Gebresillassie BM, Howells K, Ashiru-Oredope D. Public Health Interventions Delivered by Pharmacy Professionals in Low- and Middle-Income Countries in Africa: A Systematic Scoping Review. Pharmacy (Basel) 2023; 11. [PMID: 36827662 DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy11010024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Pharmacists and their teams play an important role in providing public health services, however little is known about their level of contribution and the strength of evidence in Africa's Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs). The purpose of this scoping review was to explore and map the available evidence on pharmacy professional-delivered public health interventions in Africa's LMICs. Six electronic databases (Medline, Embase, International Pharmaceutical Abstract, PsycInfo, Maternity and Infant Care, and Cochrane database), relevant grey literature sources, key journals focused on African health issues, and libraries of relevant organizations were searched between January 2010 and December 2020. Studies were included if they reported public health interventions delivered by pharmacy professionals (pharmacists or pharmacy technicians) or their teams. The quality of the individual studies was assessed using an adapted grading system. Thirty-nine studies were included in this review. Pharmacy professionals delivered a wide range of public health interventions, with the most common themes being noncommunicable diseases, infectious diseases, sexual and reproductive health, antimicrobial resistance, and other health conditions, e.g., dental health, unused drugs or waste, minor ailments. The majority of the studies were classified as low-quality evidence. They were predominantly feasibility and acceptability studies conducted in a narrow study area, in a small number of LMICs in Africa, resulting in little evidence of service effectiveness, issues of broad generalizability of the findings, and sustainability. The major constraints to service provision were identified as a lack of training, public recognition, and supporting policies. Pharmacy professionals and their teams across LMICs in Africa have attempted to expand their practice in public health. However, the pace of the expansion has been slow and lacks strong evidence for its generalizability and sustainability. Future research is needed to improve the quality of evidence, which will subsequently serve as a foundation for policy reform, allowing pharmacy professionals to make significant contributions to the public health initiatives in the region.
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Baldonedo-Mosteiro C, Mosteiro-Díaz MP, Franco-Correia S, Tardón A. Emotional Burden among Pharmacists and Pharmacy Technicians during the COVID-19 Lockdown: A Cross Sectional Study. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2022; 19:10558. [PMID: 36078274 PMCID: PMC9518200 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191710558] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Revised: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
This study aims to investigate the prevalence of depression and anxiety symptoms among Spanish community pharmacists and pharmacy technicians during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) lockdown. A descriptive cross-sectional quantitative study was designed. An online survey was administered to participants from 4 to 21 April 2020 using a questionnaire assessing sociodemographic information and the Spanish version of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Informed consent to participate was requested. Participants comprised 1162 pharmacy staff from Spain with an average age of 39.15 ± 9.718, from 20 to 65 years old, of whom 83% were women, and 50.6% were married. More than half of the participants expressed symptoms of depression (62.7%) and anxiety (70.9%). An important prevalence of anxiety and depression symptoms has been detected among Spanish pharmacists and pharmacy technicians during the COVID-19 lockdown. Being a woman, smoking, feeling fear, feeling stress and believing that pharmacists/pharmacy technicians are very exposed to COVID-19 seem to be associated with higher HADS scores.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - María-Pilar Mosteiro-Díaz
- Grupo de Investigación INEUROPA, Departamento de Medicina, Área de Enfermería, Universidad de Oviedo, 33006 Oviedo, Spain
| | - Sara Franco-Correia
- Departamento de Medicina, Área de Enfermería, Universidad de Oviedo, 33006 Oviedo, Spain
| | - Adonina Tardón
- Departamento de Medicina, Área de Salud Pública, Health Research Institute of Investigation (ISPA) and CIBERESP, Universidad de Oviedo, 33006 Oviedo, Spain
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15
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DiMario A, McCall KL, Couture S, Boynton W. Pharmacist and Pharmacy Technician Attitudes and Experiences with Technician-Administered Immunizations. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:vaccines10081354. [PMID: 36016241 PMCID: PMC9412918 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10081354] [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: 06/25/2022] [Revised: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
In response to the increased demand for healthcare services during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Public Readiness and Emergency Preparedness (PREP) Act amendments and guidance authorized pharmacy technicians, who are not otherwise authorized in their state, to administer the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP)-recommended immunizations and COVID-19 vaccines under pharmacist order. Subsequently, many pharmacies nationwide have expanded technician duties to include immunization administration. The primary objective of this study was to evaluate and compare the attitudes and experiences associated with technician-administered immunizations among community pharmacists and technicians. The cross-sectional study evaluated the primary endpoint through the completion of anonymous surveys containing peer-reviewed questionnaires. Pharmacy technicians and their supervising pharmacists were selected to complete the survey at a grocery chain’s pharmacies located in five states across the Northeast if they completed the immunization program and administered at least one immunization. Surveys were drafted using Microsoft Forms and results were analyzed using Microsoft Excel. Chi-squared tests were utilized for comparing categorical variables between groups. A total of 268 survey responses were obtained; 171 responses came from pharmacists and 97 responses came from immunization-certified technicians. Most pharmacists and pharmacy technicians responded that technicians could safely administer vaccines (87.1% and 96.9%, respectively) and competently process and bill vaccine services (90.6% and 99.0%, respectively). In addition, both participant populations responded that technician-administered vaccines improved the workflow of vaccine services (76.6% and 82.5%, respectively) without increasing the likelihood of vaccine errors (56.1% and 78.3%, respectively). When compared with technicians, fewer pharmacists were confident in a technician’s ability to competently prepare vaccines (63.7% vs. 91.8%; p < 0.001). A statistically significant association was observed between responses regarding an efficient process for immunizing patients and the likelihood of technician vaccination errors (χ2 = 14.36; p < 0.01). Pharmacists and pharmacy technicians responded that technicians competently administer immunizations and should participate in more patient-care duties. Multiple states are enacting legislation to include technician vaccine administration as a permanent component of their scope of practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexis DiMario
- School of Pharmacy, University of New England, Portland, ME 04103, USA
- Hannaford Supermarkets & Pharmacy, Scarborough, ME 04074, USA
| | - Kenneth Lee McCall
- School of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, Binghamton University, Johnson City, NY 13790, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-(607)-777-5853
| | - Sara Couture
- Hannaford Supermarkets & Pharmacy, Scarborough, ME 04074, USA
| | - Wendy Boynton
- Hannaford Supermarkets & Pharmacy, Scarborough, ME 04074, USA
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16
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Shaw B, Boland S, Baker D, Tucker M, Jeter C, Zhou Y. ASHP Statement on the Pharmacy Technician's Role in Pharmacy Informatics. Am J Health Syst Pharm 2022; 79:1449-1452. [PMID: 35640562 DOI: 10.1093/ajhp/zxac136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Mary Tucker
- BD (Becton, Dickinson and Company), San Diego, CA, USA
| | | | - Yuqi Zhou
- University of Minnesota College of Pharmacy, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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Rewald M, Woller TW, Sullivan M. Stabilizing the pharmacy technician workforce as an imperative for the chief pharmacy officer. Am J Health Syst Pharm 2022; 79:1445-1448. [PMID: 35536741 DOI: 10.1093/ajhp/zxac135] [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] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
In an effort to expedite the publication of articles related to the COVID-19 pandemic, AJHP is posting these manuscripts online as soon as possible after acceptance. Accepted manuscripts have been peer-reviewed and copyedited, but are posted online before technical formatting and author proofing. These manuscripts are not the final version of record and will be replaced with the final article (formatted per AJHP style and proofed by the authors) at a later time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Rewald
- Pharmacy Technician Program, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, and Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, USA
| | | | - Mark Sullivan
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
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Barenie RE, Wheeler JS. The Academy Is Well Positioned to Offer Pharmacy Technician Training Programs. Am J Pharm Educ 2022; 86:ajpe8554. [PMID: 35228199 PMCID: PMC8887064 DOI: 10.5688/ajpe8554] [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] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Schools and colleges of pharmacy are optimally positioned to train the entire pharmacy team, including pharmacists and pharmacy support personnel, because they can provide comprehensive workforce development, utilize established faculty expertise, harness existing infrastructure, afford opportunities for intraprofessional education, and support institutional growth and reputability. As the emphasis of training shifts towards team-based approaches and expanded responsibilities, ensuring the existing and future pharmacy workforce is equipped to serve their communities becomes increasingly important. Thus, schools and colleges of pharmacy should consider offering a pharmacy technician training program to meet the needs of their community and the profession.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel E Barenie
- The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, College of Pharmacy, Memphis, Tenneesee
| | - James S Wheeler
- The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, College of Pharmacy, Memphis, Tenneesee
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19
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Wilson DL. Preventing Prescription Drug Abuse: A Pharmacy Technician Tool Kit. J Pharm Technol 2021; 36:218-219. [PMID: 34752545 DOI: 10.1177/8755122520939639] [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] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The misuse of prescription medications in the United States is a worsening public health problem. Pharmacy technicians are often the first pharmacy staff member to receive newly dropped off prescriptions and to interact with patients in the pharmacy. Having a tool kit of the knowledge and skills needed to distinguish prescriptions that may result in misuse from the legitimate ones and to respond appropriately and professionally to each is essential to pharmacy technicians performing their role and function in the dispensing process.
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Chaker A, Omair I, Mohamed WH, Mahomed SH, Siddiqui MA. Workforce planning and safe workload in sterile compounding hospital pharmacy services. Am J Health Syst Pharm 2021; 79:187-192. [PMID: 34605883 PMCID: PMC8500028 DOI: 10.1093/ajhp/zxab379] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Disclaimer In an effort to expedite the publication of articles related to the COVID-19 pandemic, AJHP is posting these manuscripts online as soon as possible after acceptance. Accepted manuscripts have been peer-reviewed and copyedited, but are posted online before technical formatting and author proofing. These manuscripts are not the final version of record and will be replaced with the final article (formatted per AJHP style and proofed by the authors) at a later time. Purpose A prospective observational study was conducted to assess sterile compounding time and workforce requirements in a hospital pharmacy, resulting in development of staff benchmarking metrics. Methods The study was conducted in the IV room of a quaternary hospital over a total of 7 weeks. Compounding was directly observed and timing data collected for each compounded sterile preparation (CSP). The primary objective was to assess CSP workload, compounding time requirements, and workforce requirements to enable development of a data-driven staffing benchmark. Results A total of 320 sterile product preparations were directly observed during the study. Overall, the average time to compound 1 CSP (including small- and large-volume parenteral solutions, chemotherapy CSPs, batched CSPs, and syringes) was 3.25 minutes. Chemotherapy CSPs had the longest average preparation time (17.74 minutes); batched CSPs had the shortest preparation time, at 1.90 minutes per unit. A safe workload analysis indicated that in an 8-hour shift, 1 pharmacy technician can safely prepare 253 batched CSPs; 148 preparations of SVP solutions, LVP solutions, and syringes combined; 31 parenteral nutrition solutions prepared using an automated device; or 29 chemotherapy preparations. Through extrapolation of these results, it was calculated that a hospital with a capacity of 100 beds would require 1.4 pharmacist full-time equivalents (FTEs) and 2.7 technician FTEs to meet its sterile compounding needs, with proportionate increases in those estimates for a 300-bed hospital. Conclusion Organizations wishing to use external benchmarking information need to understand data characterization, pharmacy services offered, automation, workflows, and workload before utilizing that information for workforce planning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Chaker
- Department of Pharmacy Services - Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Israa Omair
- Department of Pharmacy Services - Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Weam Hazem Mohamed
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Shuaib Haroon Mahomed
- Department of Pharmacy Services - Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mohammad Aslam Siddiqui
- Department of Pharmacy Services - Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
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21
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Cernasev A, Desselle S, Hohmeier KC, Canedo J, Tran B, Wheeler J. Pharmacy Technicians, Stigma, and Compassion Fatigue: Front-Line Perspectives of Pharmacy and the US Opioid Epidemic. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2021; 18:6231. [PMID: 34207590 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18126231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Revised: 06/03/2021] [Accepted: 06/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
The opioid epidemic in the United States has led to a quadrupling of opioid overdoses since the 1990s. Stigmas exist among healthcare professionals, and it is essential to educate the next generation of pharmacy technicians regarding opioid use disorder. The main objective of this study was to characterize the phenomenon of stigma through the pharmacy technician lens when taking care of patients who are using opioid medications. Grounded in Van Manen’s phenomenological approach and the Link and Phelan stigmatization model, a qualitative study was conducted from February to June 2020 to understand pharmacy technicians’ perceptions and attitudes towards patients using opioid medications. Focus groups (n = 46) with pharmacy technicians were conducted in-person and online over five months in 2020. Thematic analysis identified three themes that characterize the stigma and the relationship between pharmacy technicians and patients taking opioid medications: (1) pharmacy technician perspectives on stigma and patients with addictive opioid-use behavior; (2) current approaches of pharmacy technicians towards patients with addictive opioid-use behavior; (3) future approaches of pharmacy technicians towards patients with addictive opioid-use behavior. The findings highlight an “ever-present” negative connotation associated with the stigma that is formed from patient interaction. It is necessary to develop proper resources and educational materials to manage the stigma that exists in pharmacies throughout the nation. These resources will facilitate how to address and prevent the stigma among pharmacy technicians in the U.S.
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Zobell JT, Moss J, Heuser S, Roe L, Young DC. Understanding the expanding role of pharmacy services in outpatient cystic fibrosis care. Pediatr Pulmonol 2021; 56:1378-1385. [PMID: 33470556 DOI: 10.1002/ppul.25283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [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: 12/07/2020] [Revised: 01/02/2021] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF) patients utilize an average of 10 (±5) medications per day. Given the complexity of the medication regimen, the CF Foundation (CFF) recommends pharmacists as members of the CF care team. The areas of pharmacy services have been identified in the literature. "Limited access pharmacists" are consulted to answer questions, assist in evaluating serum drug concentrations, provide medication education, and monitor for drug-drug interactions. Reduction in hospital length of stay has been shown through this collaboration. "Full access pharmacists" provide comprehensive medication therapy management resulting in medication adherence and access improvements, sustainability of treatments, improved provider communication, reduced medication errors and costs, expedited medication refill authorization, increased utilization of respiratory therapists, enhanced discussion of medications with CF team members, and reduction in the number of pharmacies utilized by patients to fill CF medications. An integrated CF pharmacy team are essential members of the multidisciplinary CF care team that have been shown to improve in CF medication access, increases in body weight and body mass index, reduction in prior authorization submission times, reduction in medication delivery times, expedited medication refill authorizations, increased collaboration with respiratory therapists, augmented discussion of medication with CF team members, and reduction in the number of pharmacies utilized by CF patients. There is a need to further evaluate the impact of outpatient CF pharmacy services due to the improvements in the care on patients and families affected by CF, and as the number of CFF-accredited care centers integrates CF pharmacy teams throughout the country increases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffery T Zobell
- Department of Pharmacy, Intermountain Primary Children's Hospital, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA.,Department of Pharmacy, Primary Children's Cystic Fibrosis Center, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Justin Moss
- Department of Pharmacy, Intermountain Primary Children's Hospital, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA.,Department of Pharmacy, Primary Children's Cystic Fibrosis Center, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Stephanie Heuser
- Department of Pharmacy, Primary Children's Cystic Fibrosis Center, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA.,Department of Pharmacy, Intermountain Specialty Pharmacy, Taylorsville, Utah, USA
| | - Lynda Roe
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Utah Adult Cystic Fibrosis Center, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - David C Young
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Utah Adult Cystic Fibrosis Center, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA.,Department of Pharmacotherapy, University of Utah College of Pharmacy, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
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23
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Do T, Garlock J, Williams A, Mullen C, Frazee LA. Pharmacy-facilitated medication history program at a community teaching hospital: A pre-post study in an emergency department. Am J Health Syst Pharm 2021; 78:135-140. [PMID: 33244582 DOI: 10.1093/ajhp/zxaa364] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE A study was conducted to compare the accuracy of medication histories compiled by pharmacy technicians with histories obtained through the usual multidisciplinary process. METHODS A retrospective cohort study was conducted at a community teaching hospital from January 2017 through February 2018. Inclusion criteria included patient age of at least 18 years, use of 1 or more medications at the time of admission, and hospital admission through the emergency department. Each electronically documented medication history was assessed for accuracy. The objective was to compare the accuracy of pharmacy technician-collected medication histories to those obtained through the usual multidisciplinary process. RESULTS Of 215 patients screened, 183 were included in the study: 91 patients whose medication histories were obtained through the usual multidisciplinary process and 92 whose medication histories were collected by pharmacy technicians. Overall, documentation for 1,773 medications listed in medication histories was reviewed. The primary outcome of medication history accuracy occurred 38% of the time with the usual multidisciplinary process and 70% of the time with pharmacy technician collection of medication histories (P < 0.001). CONCLUSION The study showed that the accuracy of medication histories was improved when histories were obtained by pharmacy technicians instead of via the usual multidisciplinary process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tina Do
- Department of Pharmacy, Cleveland Clinic Akron General, Akron, OH.,Department of Pharmacy, Yale New Haven Hospital, New Haven, CT
| | - Jenna Garlock
- Department of Pharmacy, Cleveland Clinic Akron General, Akron, OH
| | - Andrea Williams
- Department of Pharmacy, Cleveland Clinic Akron General, Akron, OH
| | - Chanda Mullen
- Department of Pharmacy, Cleveland Clinic Akron General, Akron, OH
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24
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Zobell JT, Moss J, Heuser SM, Asfour F. Impact of pharmacy technicians as part of an integrated health-system pharmacy team on improvement of medication access in the care of cystic fibrosis patients. Pediatr Pulmonol 2020; 55:3351-3357. [PMID: 32876997 DOI: 10.1002/ppul.25050] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2020] [Revised: 08/13/2020] [Accepted: 08/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disease requiring patients to take multiple medications per day. Multiple barriers exist affecting access and adherence. Studies have demonstrated the positive outcomes of pharmacist involvement in CF care. The purpose of this study is to characterize the impact of pharmacy technicians on medication access in the care of CF patients. METHODS A retrospective review and analysis of patient medication profiles for patients followed by the integrated pharmacy care process model was performed. Two electronic prescription pathways with pharmacy technician involvement were analyzed. One pathway using a specialty pharmacy CF pharmacy technician (SP technician) examined CF specialty medication delivery times. The other pathway examined the impact of the clinic-based CF pharmacy technician (CB technician) on the number of filling pharmacies for patients. RESULTS One-hundred and fifty-three patients met inclusion criteria in the CF specialty medication delivery analysis, and 56 patients met inclusion criteria filling pharmacy analysis. The median delivery time for dornase alfa decreased from 8 days to 3 days, p < .00001. The number of patients utilizing one filling pharmacy increased from 8 (14%) to 21 (38%) (p = .005); and utilizing three filling pharmacies decreased from 14 (25%) to 1 (2%) (p = .003). CONCLUSION The study demonstrated that pharmacy technicians as part of an integrated health-system pharmacy care process model improve medication access in the care of CF patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffery T Zobell
- Pharmacy Department, Intermountain Primary Children, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA.,Intermountain Healthcare, Primary Children's Cystic Fibrosis Center, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Justin Moss
- Pharmacy Department, Intermountain Primary Children, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA.,Intermountain Healthcare, Primary Children's Cystic Fibrosis Center, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Stephanie M Heuser
- Intermountain Healthcare, Primary Children's Cystic Fibrosis Center, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA.,Pharmacy Department, Intermountain Specialty Pharmacy, Taylorsville, Utah, USA
| | - Fadi Asfour
- Intermountain Healthcare, Primary Children's Cystic Fibrosis Center, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA.,Pediatric Pulmonology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
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25
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Baker DE, Hollinger MK, Mieure KD. Assessment of a pharmacy technician medication history program. Am J Health Syst Pharm 2020; 78:S46-S51. [PMID: 34031690 DOI: 10.1093/ajhp/zxaa312] [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] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine the percentage of unintentional prior-to-admission (PTA) medication list discrepancies captured by second-source verification. METHODS A prospective, randomized, controlled intervention was conducted on all patients admitted to a large academic medical center with a PTA medication list completed by a pharmacy technician from December 2018 through January 2019. Excluded patients included those admitted as observation status or discharged prior to the time of second-source verification. The following data was collected: patient's medical record number, age, admission date and time, service admitted to, date and time of completed PTA medication list, date and time of second-source verification, type of second-source verification, medication name, dose, route, frequency, formulation, and confidence level of pharmacy technician completing the initial PTA medication list. Second-source verification was conducted on all medications from a patient's PTA medication list after completion by a pharmacy technician. RESULTS There were a total of 992 medications from the 200 randomly assigned patients with a completed PTA medication list by a pharmacy technician during the study time frame. Of these medications, 116 (11.7%) contained a discrepancy identified by second-source verification. The most common type of discrepancy was omission (67%) followed by dosing, frequency, and formulation. The median time to complete second-source verification was 9 minutes (interquartile range, 5-17 minutes). CONCLUSION Second-source verification at the time of hospital admission helps identify medication discrepancies and may improve medication use safety and prescribing pattern and, accordingly, may contribute to reducing medication errors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle E Baker
- Wake Forest Baptist Health, Department of Pharmacy, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | | | - Katherine D Mieure
- Wake Forest Baptist Health, Department of Pharmacy, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
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26
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Chamberlain R, Huyton J, James D. Pharmacy Technicians' Roles and Responsibilities in the Community Pharmacy Sector: A Welsh Perspective. Pharmacy (Basel) 2020; 8:pharmacy8020097. [PMID: 32512840 PMCID: PMC7356290 DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy8020097] [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: 03/05/2020] [Revised: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Healthcare delivery models in Wales are changing in response to unprecedented pressure on the National Health Service UK (NHS). Community pharmacies will be prioritised to address public health and clinical needs at a local level. To support the delivery of the new model, pharmacy technicians must be enabled and developed to optimize their roles. The aim of the study was to establish existing roles of pharmacy technicians working in the community pharmacy sector in Wales and to explore barriers and enablers to development. Methods: A combination of quantitative and qualitative methodologies was used, with the main focus on quantitative methods. A total of 83 participants completed an online questionnaire and additional qualitative data were obtained from four semi-structured telephone interviews. Results: The dispensing and final accuracy checking of medicines were reported as core functions of the community pharmacy technician role, with an average of 43% and 57% of time being spent on these roles, respectively. There was some evidence of engagement in leadership and management roles (average of 19%) and limited evidence of delivery of services (average of 6%). Conclusions: There is scope to enable community pharmacy technicians to optimize and further develop their roles. Enablers include the effective use of delegation, workplace support, improved staffing levels and the prioritisation of extended pharmacy technician roles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Chamberlain
- Cardiff School of Education and Social Policy, Cardiff Metropolitan University, Cardiff CF5 2YB, UK;
- Cardiff School of Sport and Health Sciences, Cardiff Metropolitan University, Cardiff CF5 2YB, UK;
- Health Education Improvement Wales, Ty Dysgu, Cefn Coed, Nantgarw CF15 7QQ, UK
- Correspondence:
| | - Jan Huyton
- Cardiff School of Education and Social Policy, Cardiff Metropolitan University, Cardiff CF5 2YB, UK;
| | - Delyth James
- Cardiff School of Sport and Health Sciences, Cardiff Metropolitan University, Cardiff CF5 2YB, UK;
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27
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Jetha M, Walji A, Gregory P, Abdulla D, Austin Z. Pharmacist- Pharmacy Technician Intraprofessional Collaboration and Workplace Integration: Implications for Educators. Pharmacy (Basel) 2020; 8:E95. [PMID: 32492792 PMCID: PMC7355410 DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy8020095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2020] [Revised: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 05/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Globally, concerns have been expressed regarding the impact of regulation of pharmacy technicians. After more than a decade of experience with technician regulation in Ontario, Canada, uptake of the full scope of practice for technicians has been sporadic at best. The objective of this study was to examine barriers and facilitators to intraprofessional collaboration between pharmacists and pharmacy technicians for the purpose of identifying possible curricular or educational interventions to enhance workplace integration. A qualitative, interview-based study of 24 pharmacists, technicians, educators, pharmacy managers, and owners was undertaken using a semi-structured interview guide. Key findings of this research include: i) Confirmation of suboptimal utilization of regulated technicians in practice; ii) identification of crucial knowledge and skills gaps for both pharmacists and technicians; and iii) proposals for undergraduate education and training, and continuing professional development learning opportunities to address these gaps. In order to achieve the promise and potential of regulation of pharmacy technicians, system-wide change management-beginning with education-will be required and will benefit from multiple stakeholder engagement and involvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Jetha
- Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3M2, Canada; (M.J.); (A.W.); (P.G.)
| | - Ali Walji
- Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3M2, Canada; (M.J.); (A.W.); (P.G.)
| | - Paul Gregory
- Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3M2, Canada; (M.J.); (A.W.); (P.G.)
| | - Dalya Abdulla
- Faculty of Applied Health and Community Studies, Sheridan College Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning, Brampton, ON L6Y 5H9, Canada;
| | - Zubin Austin
- Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy and the Institute for Health Policy, Management, and Evaluation—Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3M2, Canada
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Draime JA, Wicker EC, Krauss ZJ, Sweeney JL, Anderson DC. Description of Position Ads for Pharmacy Technicians. Pharmacy (Basel) 2020; 8:E88. [PMID: 32456092 PMCID: PMC7356823 DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy8020088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [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: 03/03/2020] [Revised: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 05/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Pharmacy technician roles are evolving alongside the changing role of a pharmacist. There is currently no uniform definition of a pharmacy technician's role in the pharmacy workforce. The objective of this study was to look at the United States-based pharmacy technician advertisement database from Pharmacy Week to find patterns and commonalities in the duties and qualifications of pharmacy technicians. A retrospective analysis was performed on fourteen days of pharmacy technician job listings from Pharmacy Week from the year 2018. Information obtained from the listings included job title, location, setting, type of job, job duties, and job requirements. Job duties and requirements were coded by themes. Fourteen days of data resulted in 21,007 individual position listings. A majority of the job listings were for full-time positions (96.4%) and most were in the retail setting (96.78%). The most common requirements were registration with State Board, high school diploma, ability to perform tasks, communication, and physical. The most common job duties were general office etiquette, performing tasks under the direct supervision of the pharmacist, and professionalism. This study provides a description of the evolving role of pharmacy technicians through the broad variety in expectations for requirements of pharmacy technician applicants and the duties they perform when hired.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juanita A. Draime
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Cedarville University School of Pharmacy, Cedarville, OH 45413, USA;
| | - Emily C. Wicker
- Cedarville University School of Pharmacy, Cedarville, OH 45413, USA; (E.C.W.); (Z.J.K.); (J.L.S.)
| | - Zachary J. Krauss
- Cedarville University School of Pharmacy, Cedarville, OH 45413, USA; (E.C.W.); (Z.J.K.); (J.L.S.)
| | - Joel L. Sweeney
- Cedarville University School of Pharmacy, Cedarville, OH 45413, USA; (E.C.W.); (Z.J.K.); (J.L.S.)
| | - Douglas C. Anderson
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Cedarville University School of Pharmacy, Cedarville, OH 45413, USA;
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Boughen M, Fenn T. Practice, Skill Mix, and Education: The Evolving Role of Pharmacy Technicians in Great Britain. Pharmacy (Basel) 2020; 8:pharmacy8020050. [PMID: 32224904 PMCID: PMC7355578 DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy8020050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [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: 03/06/2020] [Revised: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Pharmacy technicians’ roles are rapidly evolving in Great Britain (GB) as they undertake more extended activities with increased autonomy across the different pharmacy sectors. This paper compares the GB pharmacy regulator initial education and training standards recently introduced (2017) with the qualifications currently used in practice and discusses whether future qualifications will be ‘fit for purpose’. In this context, knowledge, skills, and competence are reviewed to assess whether they will meet the expectations and underpin the evolving pharmacy technician role as integral to healthcare provision. Based on drivers, policy change, and the changing GB healthcare landscape, effectiveness of skill mix is analysed to establish whether this is being optimised to support person-centred pharmacy in response to the challenges and pressures faced within the NHS. On this basis and given there is a limited evidence base, this review has highlighted a need for larger scale research to reassure the pharmacy and wider healthcare professions, and the public, that the evolving pharmacy technician role presents no increased risk to patient safety and contributes significantly to releasing pharmacists time for person-centred clinical activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Boughen
- School of Pharmacy, University of East Anglia, Norwich NR4 7TJ, UK
- Correspondence:
| | - Tess Fenn
- European Association of Pharmacy Technicians, 2500 Valby, Denmark;
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Desselle SP, Mckeirnan KC, Hohmeier KC. Pharmacists ascribing value of technician certification using an organizational behavior framework. Am J Health Syst Pharm 2020; 77:457-465. [PMID: 31965172 DOI: 10.1093/ajhp/zxz342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To gather rich details about the value of technician certification from diverse groups of pharmacists of various practice settings and levels of experience. METHODS Focus groups of pharmacists were conducted using a semistructured interview guide in 4 states (California, Idaho, Tennessee, and Washington) varying in pharmacy technician scope of practice, regulation, and education and/or training environment. Participant pharmacists came from health-system, clinic, and community pharmacy environments. The focus groups took the unique approach of an organizational behavior perspective to contextualize technician readiness for practice change and employer fit. The sessions were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Rapid-based qualitative analysis was used to code the data, with summary templates completed by 2 of the researchers for each of the 4 sessions. RESULTS There were a total of 33 focus group participants, including 13 male and 20 female pharmacists ranging in age from 27 to 68 years. The 4 major themes yielded by the data were (1) impact of certification, (2) context of certification, (3) organizational culture considerations, and (4) future credentialing. Certification was deemed to have a greater impact on technician maturation, professional socialization, and career commitment than on actual job skills, even while job knowledge was also deemed to be enhanced. In fact, the certification process was also deemed beneficial in that it meshes with on-the-job training. Participants indicated preferences for technician certification examinations to incorporate more content in "soft skills" and also for development of more specialty and/or differentiated certification products. CONCLUSION Pharmacists from 4 states saw value in certification but agreed that certification is but one component of readying technicians for future practice. Suggestions for furthering the value of certification were shared.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Kenneth C Hohmeier
- University of Tennessee Health Sciences Center College of Pharmacy, Nashville, TN
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Eid D, Osborne J, Borowicz B. Moving the Needle: A 50-State and District of Columbia Landscape Review of Laws Regarding Pharmacy Technician Vaccine Administration. Pharmacy (Basel) 2019; 7:E168. [PMID: 31835561 PMCID: PMC6958442 DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy7040168] [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: 11/25/2019] [Revised: 12/04/2019] [Accepted: 12/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Pharmacy technicians are essential for inner workings of pharmacy teams and their depth of involvement in roles continues to evolve. An innovative role for pharmacy technicians, administration of vaccines, has emerged. With Idaho, Rhode Island, and Utah recently implementing changes that allow pharmacy technicians to safely perform this role, the need arose for a detailed examination of the law climate in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. A nine-question survey was sent out to all 51 state boards of pharmacy inquiring to legislative and regulatory environment of pharmacy technician vaccine administration. Additionally, a protocol driven, peer-reviewed process of state-specific regulations and statutes revealed categorized trends pertaining to this topic. Each state was classified per protocol into four different categories. The categorization resulted in identification of nine states in which pharmacy technician administered vaccination may be considered "Not Expressly Prohibited". A majority of states were categorized as prohibited (either directly or indirectly). Board of pharmacy respondents (43%) reported varying viewpoints on technician administered vaccines. While three states (Idaho, Rhode Island, Utah) have already made changes to allow for pharmacy technician administered vaccinations, opportunities exist for other states to consider changes to statutes or rules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deeb Eid
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Ferris State University, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA; (J.O.); (B.B.)
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McKeirnan K, Sarchet G. Implementing Immunizing Pharmacy Technicians in a Federal Healthcare Facility. Pharmacy (Basel) 2019; 7:E152. [PMID: 31717930 DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy7040152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2019] [Revised: 11/06/2019] [Accepted: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Pharmacy technicians are legally allowed to administer immunizations in specific U.S. states, provided they meet certain criteria, including the completion of an accredited immunization training course. Immunizing pharmacy technicians were incorporated into an Indian Health Services federal facility, Whiteriver Service Unit (WRSU), in 2018. The objective of this research was to gather information about implementing immunizing pharmacy technicians in a federal facility serving a large rural and medically underserved population. Methods: WRSU launched a Pharmacy Technician Immunization Program in June 2018 after seven federally employed pharmacy technicians participated in the Washington State University accredited technician immunization training. The types of vaccinations administered, and the ages of patients immunized by pharmacy technicians, were tracked from July 1, 2018 to June 30, 2019. Results: Seven immunization-trained pharmacy technicians administered 4394 injections for a total of 4852 vaccinations in one year. Vaccinations were administered to patients ranging in age from 2 months old to 85 years old and included protection against diphtheria, tetanus, polio, hepatitis A and B, H. influenza, human papillomavirus, seasonal influenza, meningococcal, measles, mumps, rubella, varicella, pneumonia, and rotavirus. Conclusion: In one year, seven pharmacy technicians administered more than 4800 vaccinations to underserved patients. Pharmacy technicians trained and certified to administer immunizations increase access to vaccination care and have the potential to drastically increase the number of immunizations given and reduce the number of deaths from vaccine-preventable diseases.
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Miller RG, Perras CA, Frail CK, Adeoye OA, Snyder ME. Perceived Roles of Independent Community Pharmacists and Pharmacy Technicians in Patient Referrals to Community Resources: A Study from the Medication Safety Research Network of Indiana (Rx-SafeNet). J Am Coll Clin Pharm 2019; 2:383-401. [PMID: 31460498 PMCID: PMC6711193 DOI: 10.1002/jac5.1142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [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: 02/01/2019] [Accepted: 04/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Referrals to community resources represent one element of the Chronic Care Model, however, little is known about the perceived role of community pharmacy staff in referring patients to community resources. OBJECTIVES The objective of this study was to describe community pharmacists', community pharmacy technicians', and patients' perceptions of pharmacist referrals to community resources. METHODS Semi-structured interviews were conducted with community pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, and patients from community pharmacies that are members of the Medication Safety Research Network of Indiana (Rx-SafeNet). Qualitative analysis was conducted to identify emergent themes. RESULTS A total of 37 participants, including six community pharmacists, one pharmacy student completing an advanced pharmacy practice experience, 15 community pharmacy technicians, and 15 patients across four independently-owned community pharmacies were interviewed. Themes included: 1) Need to build on a foundation of strong patient-community pharmacist relationships to clearly define the pharmacist's role in referrals, 2) Need to improve familiarity with community resources, 3) Need to clearly delineate and support the role for pharmacy technicians in making referrals, and 4) Need to follow-up on referrals. CONCLUSION To enhance community pharmacy staff provision of referrals to community resources, interventions are needed to improve patient and pharmacist familiarity with available resources, patients' perception of the pharmacist's role outside of prescription fulfillment, and follow-up on referrals. Moreover, pharmacy technician education and training could be expanded to optimize their role in supporting community pharmacists in making referrals.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Caitlin K Frail
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Purdue University College of Pharmacy, Indianapolis, IN
| | - Omolola A Adeoye
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Purdue University College of Pharmacy, Indianapolis, IN
| | - Margie E Snyder
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Purdue University College of Pharmacy, Indianapolis, IN
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Drame I, Connor S, Hong L, Bimpe I, Augusto J, Yoko-Uzomah J, Weaver S, Assefa F, Portney J, Gardner S, Johnson J, Tofade T. Cultural Sensitivity and Global Pharmacy Engagement in Africa. Am J Pharm Educ 2019; 83:7222. [PMID: 31223167 PMCID: PMC6581344 DOI: 10.5688/ajpe7222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2018] [Accepted: 10/18/2018] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Global engagement between schools and colleges of pharmacy in the United States and Africa is increasing. For a balanced and fruitful engagement, sensitivity towards the cultural and clinical needs of the people and professionals of the African region is critical. In this paper, we have divided the discussion into Southern, East, Central, and West Africa. General information about Africa, with unique aspects for individual subregions and countries, will be introduced. Stereotypes and misconceptions about the region and the people will also be discussed, along with recommendations for culturally sensitive engagement for pharmacy and other health care practitioners when hosting members from, or visiting this region. The paper is a resource for schools and colleges of pharmacy who are currently engaged or considering future outreach opportunities in Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imbi Drame
- Howard University, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Sharon Connor
- University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Lisa Hong
- Loma Linda University School of Pharmacy, Loma Linda, California
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Toyin Tofade
- Howard University, Washington, District of Columbia
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Taylor DA, Nicholls GM, Taylor ADJ. Perceptions of Pharmacy Involvement in Social Prescribing Pathways in England, Scotland and Wales. Pharmacy (Basel) 2019; 7:E24. [PMID: 30836693 DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy7010024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2019] [Revised: 02/26/2019] [Accepted: 02/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Social prescribing is increasingly viewed as a non-pharmacological option to address psychosocial consequences of social isolation, loneliness and bereavement; key contributors to poor mental health and wellbeing. Our study explored experiences and attitudes of pharmacists and pharmacy technicians to social prescribing in England, Scotland, and Wales, using an on-line survey. (Ethical approval, University of Bath, November 2017). The electronic survey was distributed to pharmacists registered with Royal Pharmaceutical Society local practice forum network groups in England, Scotland, and Wales, and pharmacy technicians via social media platforms. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and free text by thematic analysis. One hundred and twenty respondents took part in the survey; (94.6% pharmacists and 5.4% pharmacy technicians). Responses indicated a lack of knowledge and experience with social prescribing; however, there was enthusiasm for pharmacists and the wider pharmacy team to be involved in local social prescribing pathways. Respondents believed they were well positioned within the community and consequently able to be involved in identifying individuals that may benefit. Barriers to involvement, included time, funding and training while enablers were pharmacist skills and the need within the community for social prescribing. There is a willingness in pharmacy, to be involved in social prescribing, however further research is required to enable pharmacy to be full participants in social prescribing pathways.
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Kram BL, Trammel MA, Kram SJ, Wheeley SE, Mancheril BG, Burgess LD, Schultheis JM. Medication Histories in Critically Ill Patients Completed by Pharmacy Personnel. Ann Pharmacother 2019; 53:596-602. [PMID: 30654616 DOI: 10.1177/1060028018825483] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although critically ill adults often have extended hospital lengths of stay and are at high risk of having medication-related adverse events, the value of medication histories in these patients remains underreported. OBJECTIVE To assess the feasibility of performing medication histories in critically ill adults and to establish the frequency of and characterize identified discrepancies. METHODS This prospective study included patients admitted to 4 intensive care units (ICUs) in a large academic medical center and was conducted in 2 phases. In phase 1, medication histories were conducted over a 5-week period by clinical pharmacists to assess feasibility. In phase 2, medication histories were conducted over a 3-week period by a pharmacy technician. Medication discrepancies, defined as any difference between the documented and pharmacy personnel-identified home medication list, were aggregated in both phases and adjudicated for severity. RESULTS In phase 1, 127 medication histories were completed (42.3% of admitted patients). Impaired cognition was the most common barrier encountered; however, 76% of patients were able to have a history completed if an attempt was made. In phase 2, a medication history was completed for 176 patients (58.9% of admitted patients). In aggregate, 1155 discrepancies were identified, with 78.2% of patients having a discrepancy. The median number of discrepancies per patient was 3 (interquartile range = 1-5); 11 life-threatening, 101 serious, and 326 significant discrepancies were identified. Conclusion and Relevance: A pharmacy personnel-based medication history program in the ICU is feasible and assists in the discovery of medication discrepancies with the potential for patient harm.
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Doucette WR, Schommer JC. Pharmacy Technicians' Willingness to Perform Emerging Tasks in Community Practice. Pharmacy (Basel) 2018; 6:pharmacy6040113. [PMID: 30322033 PMCID: PMC6306904 DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy6040113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [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: 09/03/2018] [Revised: 09/23/2018] [Accepted: 10/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
New tasks are being developed for pharmacy technicians in community practice. The objectives of this study were to (1) assess the willingness of community pharmacy technicians to perform new tasks, and (2) to identify factors affecting technicians in assuming new tasks in community pharmacy practice. An online survey asked about the respondent characteristics, involvement in pharmacy technician tasks, willingness to perform emerging pharmacy technician tasks, and influences on pharmacy technicians’ performance of emerging tasks. Descriptive statistics were calculated for all items. A total of 639 usable surveys from community pharmacy technicians were used in the analyses. The respondents reported a mean of 11.5 years working as a pharmacy technician, with 79.2% working full time. Technicians reported high willingness to perform four emerging tasks, moderate willingness for six tasks, and low willingness to perform two tasks. The low willingness tasks were administering a vaccination and drawing a blood sample with a finger stick. Four workplace influences on willingness to perform emerging tasks were insufficient staffing, insufficient time to complete additional tasks, employers not classifying technicians based on specialized skills, and usually feeling stress at work. It appears likely that pharmacy technicians will be willing to perform the new tasks needed to support the emerging patient care services in community pharmacies.
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Affiliation(s)
- William R Doucette
- College of Pharmacy, University of Iowa, 115 S. Grand Avenue, S518 PHAR, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA.
| | - Jon C Schommer
- College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, 308 Harvard Street, S.E., Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.
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Fera T, Kanel KT, Bolinger ML, Fink AE, Iheasirim S. Clinical support role for a pharmacy technician within a primary care resource center. Am J Health Syst Pharm 2018; 75:139-144. [PMID: 29371195 DOI: 10.2146/ajhp160646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The creation of a clinical support role for a pharmacy technician within a primary care resource center is described. SUMMARY In the Primary Care Resource Center (PCRC) Project, hospital-based care transition coordination hubs staffed by nurses and pharmacist teams were created in 6 independent community hospitals. At the largest site, patient volume for targeted diseases challenged the ability of the PCRC pharmacist to provide expected elements of care to targeted patients. Creation of a new pharmacy technician clinical support role was implemented as a cost-effective option to increase the pharmacist's efficiency. The pharmacist's work processes were reviewed and technical functions identified that could be assigned to a specially trained pharmacy technician under the direction of the PCRC pharmacist. Daily tasks performed by the pharmacy technician included maintenance of the patient roster and pending discharges, retrieval and documentation of pertinent laboratory and diagnostic test information from the patient's medical record, assembly of patient medication education materials, and identification of discrepancies between disparate systems' medication records. In the 6 months after establishing the PCRC pharmacy technician role, the pharmacist's completion of comprehensive medication reviews (CMRs) for target patients increased by 40.5% (p = 0.0223), driven largely by a 42.4% (p < 0.0001) decrease in the time to complete each chart review. CONCLUSION The addition of a pharmacy technician to augment pharmacist care in a PCRC team extended the reach of the pharmacist and allowed more time for the pharmacist to engage patients. Technician support enabled the pharmacist to complete more CMRs and reduced the time required for chart reviews.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toni Fera
- PCI Pharmacy Consulting, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Keith T Kanel
- Pittsburgh Regional Health Initiative, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Meghan L Bolinger
- Primary Care Resource Center, Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center, Johnstown, PA
| | - Amber E Fink
- Primary Care Resource Center, Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center, Johnstown, PA
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Desselle SP, Hoh R, Rossing C, Holmes ER, Gill A, Zamora L. The caring behaviours of Danish pharmaconomists: insight for pharmacy technician practice around the world. Int J Pharm Pract 2018; 27:157-165. [PMID: 30019811 DOI: 10.1111/ijpp.12478] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2017] [Accepted: 06/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Pharmacy workforce support personnel are being accorded greater scopes of practice, especially Danish pharmaconomists [pharmacy technician, experts in pharmaceuticals with a 3-year degree]. The aims of this study were to assess pharmaconomists' caring behaviours and identify factors related to those behaviours. METHODS A self-administered survey was distributed to a random sample of pharmaconomists in Denmark. The survey assessed caring behaviours using the Caring Behaviours Assessment and acquired data to ascertain their employers' culture, respondent's need for achievement, personality traits, commitment and work-related characteristics. Descriptive statistics provided insight into pharmacomomists' predispositions, and bivariate analyses were used to identify associations of pharmaconomists' caring with other variables under study. KEY FINDINGS Over 300 pharmaconomists responded (52.2% response rate). Pharmaconomists reported generally high levels (well above the median on the 5-point scale) of caring behaviours. They reported higher levels (upper range of 5-point scale) of empathic behaviours, such as treating patients with respect and seeing things from the patient's point of view but somewhat lower levels of encouraging the patient to talk about how they feel and praising the patient's efforts, which could otherwise help patients cope with and improve their self-efficacy for disease management. Pharmaconomist caring was associated with practice setting, organisational culture and commitment to their employer. CONCLUSIONS Pharmaconomists reported performing behaviours that were empathic, but less frequently those associated with facilitating greater patient autonomy. Caring behaviours were associated with a number of variables related to practice setting. The findings can help to inform educational pedagogy and pharmacy personnel management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shane P Desselle
- College of Pharmacy, Touro University California, Vallejo, CA, USA
| | - Ryan Hoh
- Touro University California, Vallejo, CA, USA
| | | | - Erin R Holmes
- School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, University, MS, USA
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Patel S, Mathis AS, Costello J, Ghin HL, Fahim G. Satisfaction With Medication Reconciliation Completed by Pharmacy Technicians in an Emergency Department. P T 2018; 43:423-428. [PMID: 30013300 PMCID: PMC6027853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To survey advanced nurse practitioners, physician assistants, nurses, physicians, and resident physicians involved with collecting and reconciling medication histories in the emergency department (ED) to measure their satisfaction with the current process involving pharmacy technicians. METHODS Two sites within a large health system with pharmacy technician-driven medication reconciliation processes asked health care professionals to complete a survey of 20 multiple-choice questions. The data collected determined resources used and barriers faced when collecting medication histories, satisfaction before and after the involvement of pharmacy technicians in the ED, and the impact technology may have on this process in the future. RESULTS Of 144 health care providers surveyed, 69.4% reported collecting medication histories through patient interviews. The most common barrier reported was the lack of time (44%) to spend on this step. After implementing the pharmacy technician-driven program, satisfaction with health care providers' required time improved from 18.8% to 68.9%. Similarly, satisfaction with the accuracy of medication histories improved from 40.3% to 75.4%. When asked about the use of technology if available, 65.2% of respondents reported they would almost always use technology. However, 61.6% of respondents preferred investing health care resources in adding more pharmacy technicians in the ED rather than adding technology. CONCLUSION Pharmacy technicians have positively impacted the medication reconciliation process at the sites surveyed. Health care professionals report greater satisfaction with their time demands and perceived accuracy of medication histories, giving them more time to focus on other patient care tasks. Those surveyed reported interest in using technology to collect medication histories if it was available, but they would prefer more pharmacy technicians to assist with the process.
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Niederhauser A, Zimmermann C, Fishman L, Schwappach DLB. Implications of involving pharmacy technicians in obtaining a best possible medication history from the perspectives of pharmaceutical, medical and nursing staff: a qualitative study. BMJ Open 2018; 8:e020566. [PMID: 29773700 PMCID: PMC5961573 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2017-020566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In recent years, the involvement of pharmacy technicians in medication reconciliation has increasingly been investigated. The aim of this study was to assess the implications on professional roles and collaboration when a best possible medication history (BPMH) at admission is obtained by pharmacy technicians. DESIGN Qualitative study with semistructured interviews. Data were analysed using a qualitative content analysis approach. SETTING Internal medicine units in two mid-sized Swiss hospitals. PARTICIPANTS 21 staff members working at the two sites (6 pharmacy technicians, 2 pharmacists, 6 nurses, 5 physician residents and 2 senior physicians). RESULTS Pharmacy technicians generally appreciated their new tasks in obtaining a BPMH. However, they also experienced challenges associated with their new role. Interviewees reported unease with direct patient interaction and challenges with integrating the new BPMH tasks into their regular daily duties. We found that pharmacists played a key role in the BPMH process, since they act as coaches for pharmacy technicians, transmit information to the physicians and reconcile preadmission medication lists with admission orders. Physicians stated that they benefitted from the delegation of administrative tasks to pharmacy technicians. Regarding the interprofessional collaboration, we found that pharmacy technicians in the study acted on a preliminary administrative level and did not become part of the larger treatment team. There was no direct interaction between pharmacy technicians and physicians, but rather, the supervising pharmacists acted as intermediaries. CONCLUSION The tasks assumed by pharmacy technicians need to be clearly defined and fully integrated into existing processes. Engaging pharmacy technicians may generate new patient safety risks and inefficiencies due to process fragmentation. Communication and information flow at the interfaces between professional groups therefore need to be well organised. More research is needed to understand if and under which circumstances such a model can be efficient and contribute to improving medication safety.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Liat Fishman
- Swiss Patient Safety Foundation, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - David L B Schwappach
- Swiss Patient Safety Foundation, Zürich, Switzerland
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine (ISPM), University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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Boughen M, Sutton J, Fenn T, Wright D. Defining the Role of the Pharmacy Technician and Identifying Their Future Role in Medicines Optimisation. Pharmacy (Basel) 2017; 5:pharmacy5030040. [PMID: 28970452 PMCID: PMC5622352 DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy5030040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [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: 06/21/2017] [Revised: 07/11/2017] [Accepted: 07/12/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Traditionally, pharmacy technicians have worked alongside pharmacists in community and hospital pharmacy. Changes within pharmacy provide opportunity for role expansion and with no apparent career pathway, there is a need to define the current pharmacy technician role and role in medicines optimisation. Aim: To capture the current roles of pharmacy technicians and identify how their future role will contribute to medicines optimisation. Methods: Following ethical approval and piloting, an online survey to ascertain pharmacy technicians’ views about their roles was undertaken. Recruitment took place in collaboration with the Association of Pharmacy Technicians UK. Data were exported to SPSS, data screened and descriptive statistics produced. Free text responses were analysed and tasks collated into categories reflecting the type of work involved in each task. Results: Responses received were 393 (28%, n = 1380). Results were organised into five groups: i.e., hospital, community, primary care, General Practitioner (GP) practice and other (which included HM Prison Service). Thirty tasks were reported as commonly undertaken in three or more settings and 206 (84.7%, n = 243) pharmacy technicians reported they would like to expand their role. Conclusions: Tasks core to hospital and community pharmacy should be considered for inclusion to initial education standards to reflect current practice. Post qualification, pharmacy technicians indicate a significant desire to expand clinically and managerially allowing pharmacists more time in patient-facing/clinical roles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Boughen
- School of Pharmacy, University of East Anglia, Norwich NR4 7TJ, UK.
| | - Jane Sutton
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University of Bath, Bath BA2 7AY, UK.
| | - Tess Fenn
- Association of Pharmacy Technicians, Birmingham B1 1BD, UK.
| | - David Wright
- School of Pharmacy, University of East Anglia, Norwich NR4 7TJ, UK.
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Abstract
Aim To evaluate a medicines reablement initiative involving health and social care, to include consideration of the training package, proportion of patients reabled successfully, and patient and staff perspectives of the service. BACKGROUND Intermediate care services provide short-term intervention to support patients with chronic conditions transition from hospital to community-based services and involves maximising patients' independence through reablement. The term 'medicines reablement' describes the process of rehabilitating patients to be independent with their medication. METHODS Pharmacy technicians led the medicines reablement initiative. They delivered a competency-based training programme for frontline health and social care staff. They assessed and set goals with patients to facilitate independence in self-administration of their medication. The pharmacy technicians provided on-going support to staff helping patients to reable. They reassessed patients after six weeks to determine if medicines reablement had been successful or whether further input was needed. Data were collected by means of a questionnaire and semi-structured interviews with pharmacy technicians, frontline staff, managers, and patients. Findings Twenty per cent of patients discharged from hospital to intermediate care were assessed to be suitable for medicines reablement. Of these patients, 44% were successfully reabled and a further 25% benefited from the input of a pharmacy technician. Patients and staff were positive about medicines reablement, emphasising the importance of patients attaining independence for self-administration of medication. Although following training, health and social care staff felt confident in facilitating medicines reablement they valued on-going access to pharmacy technicians for timely support, help with problem solving, and advice throughout the reablement process. CONCLUSION Medicines reablement can lead to patients becoming independent with taking medication and contribute to staff satisfaction. Pharmacy technicians can play an important part in delivering medicines reablement training to frontline staff and overseeing the reablement process. Further research examining medicines reablement is needed to develop a stronger evidence base.
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Irwin AN, Ham Y, Gerrity TM. Expanded Roles for Pharmacy Technicians in the Medication Reconciliation Process: A Qualitative Review. Hosp Pharm 2017; 52:44-53. [PMID: 28179740 PMCID: PMC5278913 DOI: 10.1310/hpj5201-44] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Background: Collection of a complete and accurate medication history is an essential component of the medication reconciliation process. The role of pharmacy technicians in supporting medication reconciliation has been the subject of recent interest. Purpose: The purpose of this article is to review the existing literature on pharmacy technician involvement in the medication reconciliation process and to summarize outcomes on the quality and accuracy of pharmacy technician-collected medication histories. Method: A literature review was conducted using MEDLINE and Academic Search Premier (1948 - April 2015). Results: Sixteen papers were identified, with 12 containing a formal evaluation of outcomes. Three were purely descriptive, and 9 compared the pharmacy technician's performance to pharmacists, nurses, physicians, and/or interdisciplinary teams. Studies used a variety of endpoints, but they demonstrated similar or improved outcomes by engaging pharmacy technicians. Evidence demonstrates that trained pharmacy technicians are able to gather medication histories with similar completeness and accuracy to other health care professionals. Conclusion: The use of pharmacy technicians may be a viable strategy for developing and expanding medication reconciliation processes with appropriate supervision. Future efforts should focus on evaluating the impact of expanded roles for pharmacy technicians in the health care system; assessing the need for standardization of pharmacy technician education, training, and certification; and obtaining clarification from state pharmacy boards regarding these expanded roles.
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Markovic M, Mathis AS, Ghin HL, Gardiner M, Fahim G. A Comparison of Medication Histories Obtained by a Pharmacy Technician Versus Nurses in the Emergency Department. P T 2017; 42:41-46. [PMID: 28090164 PMCID: PMC5215278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To compare the medication history error rate of the emergency department (ED) pharmacy technician with that of nursing staff and to describe the workflow environment. METHODS Fifty medication histories performed by an ED nurse followed by the pharmacy technician were evaluated for discrepancies (RN-PT group). A separate 50 medication histories performed by the pharmacy technician and observed with necessary intervention by the ED pharmacist were evaluated for discrepancies (PT-RPh group). Discrepancies were totaled and categorized by type of error and therapeutic category of the medication. The workflow description was obtained by observation and staff interview. RESULTS A total of 474 medications in the RN-PT group and 521 in the PT-RPh group were evaluated. Nurses made at least one error in all 50 medication histories (100%), compared to 18 medication histories for the pharmacy technician (36%). In the RN-PT group, 408 medications had at least one error, corresponding to an accuracy rate of 14% for nurses. In the PT-RPh group, 30 medications had an error, corresponding to an accuracy rate of 94.4% for the pharmacy technician (P < 0.0001). The most common error made by nurses was a missing medication (n = 109), while the most common error for the pharmacy technician was a wrong medication frequency (n = 19). The most common drug class with documented errors for ED nurses was cardiovascular medications (n = 100), while the pharmacy technician made the most errors in gastrointestinal medications (n = 11). CONCLUSION Medication histories obtained by the pharmacy technician were significantly more accurate than those obtained by nurses in the emergency department.
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Rubin EC, Pisupati R, Nerenberg SF. Utilization of Pharmacy Technicians to Increase the Accuracy of Patient Medication Histories Obtained in the Emergency Department. Hosp Pharm 2016; 51:396-404. [PMID: 27303094 DOI: 10.1310/hpj5105-396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study is to determine the accuracy of a pharmacy technician-collected medication history pilot program in the emergency department. This was completed by reviewing all elements of the technician activity by direct observation and by verifying the technician-collected medication list through a second phone call by a pharmacist to the outpatient pharmacy. METHODS This was a retrospective, single-center study conducted from March to April 2015. Four certified pharmacy technicians were trained by a postgraduate year 1 (PGY1) pharmacy practice resident on how to collect, verify, and accurately enter medication histories into the electronic medical record. Accuracy of pharmacy technician-collected medication histories was verified by a pharmacist through observation of their patient interviews, review of technician-completed medication history forms, and by contacting the patient's outpatient pharmacy. RESULTS The pharmacy technician-completed medication histories resulted in an absolute risk reduction of errors of 50% and a relative risk reduction of errors of 77% (p < .001) in comparison to medication histories collected by non-pharmacy personnel. CONCLUSION With high accuracy rates, pharmacy technicians proved to be a valuable asset to the medication history process and can enhance patient safety during care transitions. The results of this study further support the Pharmacy Practice Model Initiative vision to advance the pharmacy technician role to improve the process of medication history taking and reconciliation within the health care system.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Pharmacy technicians are expanding their scope of practice, often in partnership with pharmacists. In oncology, such a shift in responsibilities may lead to workflow efficiencies, but may also cause concerns about patient risk and medication errors. OBJECTIVES The primary objective was to compare the time spent on order entry and order-entry checking before and after training of a clinical support pharmacy technician (CSPT) to perform chemotherapy order entry. The secondary objectives were to document workflow interruptions and to assess medication errors. METHODS This before-and-after observational study investigated chemotherapy order entry for ambulatory oncology patients. Order entry was performed by pharmacists before the process change (phase 1) and by 1 CSPT after the change (phase 2); order-entry checking was performed by a pharmacist during both phases. The tasks were timed by an independent observer using a personal digital assistant. A convenience sample of 125 orders was targeted for each phase. Data were exported to Microsoft Excel software, and timing differences for each task were tested with an unpaired t test. RESULTS Totals of 143 and 128 individual orders were timed for order entry during phase 1 (pharmacist) and phase 2 (CSPT), respectively. The mean total time to perform order entry was greater during phase 1 (1:37 min versus 1:20 min; p = 0.044). Totals of 144 and 122 individual orders were timed for order-entry checking (by a pharmacist) in phases 1 and 2, respectively, and there was no difference in mean total time for order-entry checking (1:21 min versus 1:20 min; p = 0.69). There were 33 interruptions not related to order entry (totalling 39:38 min) during phase 1 and 25 interruptions (totalling 30:08 min) during phase 2. Three errors were observed during order entry in phase 1 and one error during order-entry checking in phase 2; the errors were rated as having no effect on patient care. CONCLUSIONS Chemotherapy order entry by a trained CSPT appeared to be just as safe and efficient as order entry by a pharmacist. Changes in pharmacy technicians' scope of practice could increase the amount of time available for pharmacists to provide direct patient care in the oncology setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather Neville
- Heather Neville, BScPharm, MSc, is a Drug Utilization Pharmacist and Pharmacy Research Coordinator with the Central Zone (formerly Capital Health), Nova Scotia Health Authority, Halifax, Nova Scotia
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Abstract
Objective: To provide a background on pharmacy informatics and the current role of the pharmacy technician, as well as to review the different technologies that pharmacy technicians utilize in routine practice and identify opportunities for pharmacy technicians to assist pharmacists in the practice of pharmacy informatics. Data Sources: Articles were identified through searches of MEDLINE/PubMed (1946-March 2015) with the following search terms: pharmacy informatics and technician, medical informatics and technician, and technician informaticists. Additionally, informatics resources from the American Society of Health-Systems Pharmacists were used. Study Selection and Data Extraction: Articles that discussed the pharmacy technician's and/or other pharmacy staff's role in medical or pharmacy informatics were considered for inclusion. Data Synthesis: Several roles for the pharmacy technician were identified and reviewed in the literature and subsequently categorized based on the following identified themes: pharmacy technician informaticists, health-system pharmacy technicians, and community pharmacy technicians. Conclusions: As the field of pharmacy informatics continues to grow, pharmacy technicians will continue to play an integral role at various levels of pharmacy practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carol L White
- University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Nashville, TN, USA
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Abstract
Objective: As the practice of pharmacy continues to advance and involve nondispensing pharmacy services, point-of-care testing (POCT) has continued to demonstrate its usefulness as a tool and service in pharmacy. Of particular significance is the ability of POCT to assist clinical practice related to diabetes, cholesterol management, and anticoagulation. POCT can allow for certain laboratory results to be obtained within seconds to minutes, which can help direct care. Many components of POCT programs can involve pharmacy technicians to help enhance practice efficiency. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of POCT devices commonly used in nondispensing pharmacy services and to describe the roles that pharmacy technicians may have in the POCT process. Data Sources: PubMed (1946-2014) was reviewed for relevant literature using terms such as "pharmacy technician" and "point of care testing." Additionally, manufacturer information/websites of POCT products were reviewed for approval information and instructions for use. Study Selection and Data Extraction: Articles describing POCT completed in a pharmacy setting and/or roles of pharmacy technicians and related support staff in the POCT process were considered for inclusion. Data Synthesis: Several types of POCT devices for different uses common to the practice of pharmacy are reviewed. Additionally, strategies for collaboration between pharmacy technicians and pharmacists in the execution of a POCT program are described. Conclusion: Pharmacy technicians are well suited to participate in portions of the POCT process, and the involvement of pharmacy technicians may improve POCT efficiency.
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