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Walters JK, Sharma A, Malica E, Harrison R. Supporting efficiency improvement in public health systems: a rapid evidence synthesis. BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:293. [PMID: 35241066 PMCID: PMC8892107 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-022-07694-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Public health systems internationally are under pressure to meet increasing demand for healthcare in the context of increasing financial resource constraint. There is therefore a need to maximise health outcomes achieved with public healthcare expenditure. This paper aims to establish and synthesize the contemporary evidence base for approaches taken at a system management level to improve efficiency. Methods Rapid Evidence Assessment (REA) methodology was employed. A search strategy was developed and applied (PUBMED, MEDLINE) returning 5,377 unique titles. 172 full-text articles were screened to determine relevance with 82 publications included in the final review. Data regarding country, study design, key findings and approaches to efficiency improvement were extracted and a narrative synthesis produced. Publications covering health systems from developed countries were included. Results Identified study designs included policy reviews, qualitative reviews, mixed methods reviews, systematic reviews, literature reviews, retrospective analyses, scoping reviews, narrative papers, regression analyses and opinion papers. While findings revealed no comprehensive frameworks for system-wide efficiency improvement, a range of specific centrally led improvement approaches were identified. Elements associated with success in current approaches included dedicated central functions to drive system-wide efficiency improvement, managing efficiency in tandem with quality and value, and inclusive stakeholder engagement. Conclusions The requirement for public health systems to improve efficiency is likely to continue to increase. Reactive cost-cutting measures and short-term initiatives aimed only at reducing expenditure are unlikely to deliver sustainable efficiency improvement. By providing dedicated central system-wide efficiency improvement support, public health system management entities can deliver improved financial, health service and stakeholder outcomes. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12913-022-07694-z.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Emma Malica
- New South Wales Ministry of Health, St Leonards, Australia
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Almansour HA, Aloudah NM, Alhawassi TM, Chaar B, Krass I, Saini B. Physicians' views on cardiovascular disease risk prevention services by pharmacists and potential for collaboration. EXPLORATORY RESEARCH IN CLINICAL AND SOCIAL PHARMACY 2021; 4:100077. [PMID: 35479842 PMCID: PMC9029915 DOI: 10.1016/j.rcsop.2021.100077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Revised: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/26/2021] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
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Chen SC, Lee KH, Horng DJ, Huang PJ. Integrating the Public Health Services Model into Age-Friendly Pharmacies: A Case Study on the Pharmacies in Taiwan. Healthcare (Basel) 2021; 9:1589. [PMID: 34828634 PMCID: PMC8621832 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare9111589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 11/14/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Taiwan is expected to become a superaged society by 2026. Community pharmacies have recently joined Taiwan's primary care system; they have great potential to provide professional healthcare services. This study examined whether the services provided by community pharmacists enhance medication adherence, enable the identification and solution of drug therapy problems, and are accepted by community residents. The Department of Public Health, Taoyuan City, collaborated with the Taoyuan Pharmacist Association over 11 months in 2018 in enabling pharmacists to dispense prescriptions and provide medication adherence consultations, cognitive services, and home and institutional medical care services. This study designed four satisfaction questionnaires to assess the feasibility and performance of these services. Regarding the services related to medication knowledge and adherence, 92.10% of the patients reported overall satisfaction, and all understanding and ability scores were improved in more than 95% of patients. The number of patients highly cooperative regarding their medication had risen from 14 to 234 after the intervention, and the number with low medication adherence had dropped from 533 to 33. More than 90% of respondents indicated that the institutional medical care services had significantly improved their medication knowledge and behaviors. The feasibility of the incorporation of integrated the public health services model into age-friendly pharmacies was confirmed by this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shih-Chang Chen
- Department of Business Administration, National Central University, Taoyuan 32001, Taiwan;
| | - Kuan-Han Lee
- Department of Pharmacy, Chia Nan University of Pharmacy and Science, Tainan 71710, Taiwan;
| | - Der-Juinn Horng
- Department of Business Administration, National Central University, Taoyuan 32001, Taiwan;
| | - Po-Jui Huang
- Department of Medicinal and Applied Chemistry, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 80708, Taiwan
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Exploring the quality of smoking cessation in community pharmacies: A simulated patient study. Res Social Adm Pharm 2021; 18:2997-3003. [PMID: 34284972 DOI: 10.1016/j.sapharm.2021.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2021] [Revised: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The prevalence of cigarette smoking continues to be a major public health problem In the United Arab Emirates (UAE); the government has recently implemented policies to reduce smoking prevalence. Innovative strategies to support cessation are needed. Community pharmacies are vital venues to extend the reach and effectiveness of smoking cessation support. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the quality of community pharmacist smoking cessation counseling in the UAE. METHODS A cross-sectional, simulated patient (SP) study was conducted among N = 111 urban community pharmacies selected at random in Sharjah city. Two scenarios were developed to cover different types of cessation needs of treatment-seeking smokers and where pharmacists could have a major role in assisting with smoking cessation pharmacotherapy. The quality of pharmacist counseling was defined in terms of comprehensiveness and communication skills. Two formal assessment tools were used; an analytical checklist to assess the comprehensiveness of pharmacists smoking cessation counseling, and a global assessment form to evaluate communication skills. A descriptive analysis of the data was undertaken. RESULTS A total of 101 pharmacists participated in the study. Pharmacist assessment of smoking cessation-specific information and provision of counseling were minimal. Pharmacists most frequently assessed nicotine dependence and provided generic guidance on the use of nicotine replacement products (NRTs) to manage withdrawal, but they largely did not obtain relevant histories (e.g., medical/medication histories, previous quit attempts, smoking triggers), explain individualized management strategies (e.g., setting quit date, changing environment, reassurance and encouragement), or provide advice about ongoing support. Pharmacists attained low scores in verbal and nonverbal communication and were frequently unempathetic and judgmental towards female SPs. CONCLUSIONS Pharmacist-led smoking cessation programs can expand primary care-based cessation opportunities in the UAE and address the demand for cessation services. Pharmacists will benefit from additional training on the provision of smoking cessation interventions, with an emphasis on patient-centered communication skills.
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Owens CT, Baergen R. Pharmacy Practice in High-Volume Community Settings: Barriers and Ethical Responsibilities. PHARMACY 2021; 9:pharmacy9020074. [PMID: 33916737 PMCID: PMC8167746 DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy9020074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Revised: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Pharmaceutical care describes a philosophy and practice paradigm that calls upon pharmacists to work with other healthcare professionals and patients to achieve optimal health outcomes. Among the most accessible health professionals, pharmacists have responsibilities to individual patients and to public health, and this has been especially evident during the COVID-19 pandemic. Pharmacists in high-volume community settings provide a growing number of clinical services (i.e., immunizations and point-of-care testing), but according to job satisfaction and workplace survey data, demands related to filling prescriptions, insufficient staffing, and working conditions are often not optimal for these enhanced responsibilities and lead to job dissatisfaction. Professional codes of ethics require a high level of practice that is currently difficult to maintain due to a number of related barriers. In this paper, we summarize recent changes to the scope of practice of pharmacists, cite ethical responsibilities from the American Pharmacists Association Code of Ethics, review data and comments from workplace surveys, and make a call for change. Corporate managers, state boards of pharmacy, and professional organizations have a shared responsibility to work with community pharmacists in all settings to find solutions that ensure optimal and ethical patient care. Attention to these areas will enhance patient care and increase job satisfaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher T. Owens
- Kasiska Division of Health Sciences, Idaho State University, Pocatello, ID 83209, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-208-406-4161
| | - Ralph Baergen
- Department of Philosophy, Idaho State University, Pocatello, ID 83209, USA;
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Roszak SE, Ferreri SP. Community Pharmacy Engagement in Diabetes Prevention: Key Informant Interviews with Pharmacy Executives. Prev Chronic Dis 2020; 17:E90. [PMID: 32816661 PMCID: PMC7458117 DOI: 10.5888/pcd17.200050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Even though evidence-based diabetes prevention interventions exist, more than 1 in 3 Americans have prediabetes; the use of pharmacies has been explored as a way to reach and care for this population. The objective of this study was to analyze factors that influence adoption of type 2 diabetes prevention programs by community pharmacies. Methods We conducted 21 semistructured interviews in 2018 with decision makers from 11 independent pharmacies in 6 US states and the District of Columbia and from 10 chain pharmacies operating in 1 state, multiple states, and nationwide. We identified participants by using purposive sampling. We used qualitative methods to analyze data and conducted interviews until we reached saturation. Results Multiple themes emerged: 1) initiation of services is more likely if initial financial support is received; 2) patient demand for services, actual or perceived, is paramount; 3) diabetes prevention services often fit within the existing operations of a pharmacy and allow maximum use of resources; 4) customer loyalty is a clearly articulated advantage against competition; and 5) engagement in diabetes prevention affirms an expanded role and the value of pharmacies to serve communities. Conclusion Pharmacies are well situated to deliver diabetes prevention programs to communities. Although considerable opportunity exists for pharmacies to address diabetes prevention, more could be done to reduce barriers to their use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara E Roszak
- Division of Practice Advancement and Clinical Education, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, Chapel Hill, North Carolina.,UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, Division of Practice Advancement and Clinical Education, 301 Pharmacy Lane, CB#7355, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7355.
| | - Stefanie P Ferreri
- Division of Practice Advancement and Clinical Education, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
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Medicinal cannabis in Latin America: History, current state of regulation, and the role of the pharmacist in a new clinical experience with cannabidiol oil. J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) 2019; 60:212-215. [PMID: 31706799 DOI: 10.1016/j.japh.2019.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2019] [Revised: 09/06/2019] [Accepted: 09/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Cannabis sativa was introduced in Latin America in the 16th century. Nevertheless, many years have elapsed, and scientific progress and the medicinal use of C sativa have been restricted by the national laws of the countries in the region. SUMMARY In Argentina, the first law on medical cannabis, approved in 2017 (#17,350), establishes a regulatory framework for the medical use and scientific research of this plant and its derivatives. In 2018, the first clinical research protocol in Latin America was approved at Hospital de Pediatria Garrahan (Buenos Aires, Argentina) to evaluate the efficacy and safety of cannabidiol (CBD) oil for the treatment of pediatric patients with refractory epilepsy. In this context, the role of pharmacists in the health care system related to the study protocol and the medicinal use of CBD has evolved from dispensing to active participation in clinical follow-up and research protocols. CONCLUSION Considering this experience, here we discuss the active role of the clinical pharmacist in the use of medicinal cannabis. Medicinal cannabis should be controlled in a legal framework based on clinical evidence, and the participation of the pharmacist in research and clinical protocols, as well as the dispensing and provision of information on the medicinal products should be emphasized in the clinical setting.
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Pharmacists’ Utilization of Information Sources Related to Community and Population Needs in the Upper Midwest and Associations with Continuing Professional Education. PHARMACY 2019; 7:pharmacy7030125. [PMID: 31470542 PMCID: PMC6789527 DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy7030125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2019] [Revised: 08/25/2019] [Accepted: 08/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: To investigate information sources utilized in pharmacists’ assessment of population-based health needs and/or community changes; and the association between information sources utilized and reported completion of continuing professional education topics. Methods: In 2017; licensed pharmacists (n = 1124) in North Dakota; South Dakota; Minnesota; Iowa; and Nebraska completed a questionnaire on continuing professional education and information sources on population-based health needs and community changes. Data were entered; cleaned and imported into Stata 11.1. Census Bureau county-level population density data were used to classify local area characteristics. Descriptive statistics and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed. Results: Most sources of primary; county-level data on population-based health needs or community changes were minimally utilized. Pharmacists in more rural areas were statistically more likely to use local health professionals; local non-health professionals; and/or the state health department compared to pharmacists in less rural areas. Pharmacists reporting higher use of population-based information sources were more likely to have completed continuing education in the past 12 months for all 21 surveyed topics; 13 significantly so. Conclusions: There is a reliance of pharmacists on information from local health and non-health professionals for information on population-based health needs and/or community changes. Utilization of health departments and other primary information sources was associated with increased rates of completion of an array of continuing professional education topics. Expanding utilization of evidence-driven information sources would improve pharmacists’ ability to better identify and respond to population-based health needs and/or community changes through programs and services offered; and tailor continuing professional education to population-based health needs.
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Moving opioid misuse prevention upstream: A pilot study of community pharmacists screening for opioid misuse risk. Res Social Adm Pharm 2019; 15:1032-1036. [DOI: 10.1016/j.sapharm.2018.07.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2018] [Revised: 07/16/2018] [Accepted: 07/16/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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Dybsand LL, Hall KJ, Carson PJ. Immunization attitudes, opinions, and knowledge of healthcare professional students at two Midwestern universities in the United States. BMC MEDICAL EDUCATION 2019; 19:242. [PMID: 31266481 PMCID: PMC6604347 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-019-1678-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2018] [Accepted: 06/19/2019] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In addition to administering vaccinations, healthcare professionals (HCPs) also play a crucial role in providing education and advocacy to the public regarding immunizations. Yet, many current and future HCPs are unprepared or reluctant to address the vaccine conversation with hesitant patients. Doctors, pharmacists, and nurses are all recognized as the most trusted sources of vaccine information. By comparing future HCPs in these three distinct programs, we can better understand where potential gaps may lie in their training and education. With insight from students, potential changes to curriculum can improve future HCPs ability to address vaccine hesitancy in their respective careers. The objective of this study was to assess and compare the knowledge, attitudes, and opinions of HCP students on the topic of immunization. METHODS A cross-sectional survey was conducted in 2017 to assess students in nursing, medical, and pharmacy programs at two universities in the state of North Dakota in the United States. The survey assessed six key themes: 1) demographic information; 2) basic vaccine knowledge; 3) vaccine hesitancy; 4) likelihood to recommend vaccines; 5) confidence in addressing vaccine-related topics with patients; 6) an appraisal of the education they have received on vaccinations. RESULTS The survey was completed by 223 participants (overall response rate = 23.7%). Results indicated that vaccine-related knowledge varied greatly by program; high knowledge scores were achieved by 74.3% of medical students, 62.7% of pharmacy students, 57.1% of doctor of nursing practice (DNP) students, and 24.7% of bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) students. Over a third (34.2%) of BSN students believed that the current recommended immunization schedule places undue burden on a child's immune system, versus only 4.3% of medical students. Additionally, 54.2% of participants believed that spreading out recommended vaccines over several visits was an appropriate means of reducing parental stress about vaccinating. CONCLUSIONS Participant responses suggest that negative attitudes, lack of knowledge, and general discomfort exist across all programs, but especially among nursing students, regarding vaccination. Our findings indicate potential areas where targeted interventions could be implemented to better equip future HCPs in their ability to discuss and educate the public regarding vaccination. TRIAL REGISTRATION #PH17173.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren L. Dybsand
- Center for Immunization Research and Education, Department of Public Health, North Dakota State University, Dept 2662, PO Box 6050, Fargo, ND 58108-6050 USA
| | - Kylie J. Hall
- Center for Immunization Research and Education, Department of Public Health, North Dakota State University, Dept 2662, PO Box 6050, Fargo, ND 58108-6050 USA
| | - Paul J. Carson
- Center for Immunization Research and Education, Department of Public Health, North Dakota State University, Dept 2662, PO Box 6050, Fargo, ND 58108-6050 USA
- Sanford Health, Fargo, ND 58104 USA
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