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Marley G, Annis IE, Ostrach B, Egan K, Delamater PL, Bell R, Dasgupta N, Carpenter DM. Naloxone Accessibility by Standing Order in North Carolina Community Pharmacies. J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) 2024; 64:102021. [PMID: 38307248 PMCID: PMC11081860 DOI: 10.1016/j.japh.2024.01.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND According to a standing order in North Carolina (NC), naloxone can be purchased without a provider prescription. OBJECTIVE The objective of this study is to examine whether same-day naloxone accessibility and cost vary by pharmacy type and rurality in NC. METHODS A cross-sectional telephone audit of 202 NC community pharmacies stratified by pharmacy type and county of origin was conducted in March and April 2023. Trained "secret shoppers" enacted a standardized script and recorded whether naloxone was available and its cost. We examined the relationship between out-of-pocket naloxone cost, pharmacy type, and rurality. RESULTS Naloxone could be purchased in 53% of the pharmacies contacted; 26% incorrectly noting that naloxone could be filled only with a provider prescription and 21% did not sell naloxone. Naloxone availability by standing order was statistically different by pharmacy type (chain/independent) (χ2 = 20.58, df = 4, P value < 0.001), with a higher frequency of willingness to dispense according to the standing order by chain pharmacies in comparison to independent pharmacies. The average quoted cost for naloxone nasal spray at chain pharmacies was $84.69; the cost was significantly more ($113.54; P < 0.001) at independent pharmacies. Naloxone cost did not significantly differ by pharmacy rurality (F2,136 = 2.38, P = 0.10). CONCLUSION Approximately half of NC community pharmacies audited dispense naloxone according to the statewide standing order, limiting same-day access to this life-saving medication. Costs were higher at independent pharmacies, which could be due to store-level policies. Future studies should further investigate these cost differences, especially as intranasal naloxone transitions from a prescription only to over-the-counter product.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace Marley
- Grace T. Marley, PharmD, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy 201 Pharmacy Lane, CB 7355, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7355, USA
| | - Izabela E Annis
- Izabela E Annis, MS, Division of Pharmaceutical Outcomes and Policy, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, NC 27599
| | - Bayla Ostrach
- Bayla Ostrach PhD, MA CIP, Medical Anthropology & Family Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine; Fruit of Labor Action Research & Technical Assistance, LLC, 608 Emmas Grove Rd., Fletcher, NC 28732
| | - Kathleen Egan
- Kathleen L Egan PhD, MS, Department of Implementation Science, Division of Public Health Sciences, Wake Forest University School of Medicine
| | - Paul L. Delamater
- Paul Delamater PhD, Department of Geography and Environment, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
| | - Ronny Bell
- Ronny Bell, PhD, Division of Pharmaceutical Outcomes and Policy, Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 27599
| | - Nabarun Dasgupta
- Nabarun Dasgupta, MPH, PhD, Injury Prevention Research Center, 725 MLK Jr. Blvd, CB 7505, Chapel Hill, NC 27599
| | - Delesha M. Carpenter
- Delesha M. Carpenter MSPH, PhD, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy 220 Campus Drive CPO 2125 Asheville, NC 28804
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Jankowski K, Evon DM, Stover AN, Mashburn T, Davis SA, Carpenter D. Exploring the impact of brief training on student pharmacists' naloxone communication skills. PEC INNOVATION 2023; 3:100196. [PMID: 37593102 PMCID: PMC10428026 DOI: 10.1016/j.pecinn.2023.100196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023]
Abstract
Objective To explore: a) whether videos that model naloxone communication skills improve student pharmacists' naloxone knowledge, self-efficacy and communication skills and b) whether outcomes differ between video versus written materials. Methods Student pharmacists (N = 31) were randomized to either video or written materials training. Changes in naloxone dispensing barriers, self-efficacy, and naloxone knowledge were assessed via survey, while changes in naloxone communication were measured with a standardized patient assessment. Results For the entire sample, knowledge and self-efficacy significantly increased and barriers to dispensing decreased. Communication improved significantly in both groups. In unadjusted analyses, students with video resources reported higher self-efficacy post-training. However, analyses that controlled for demographic characteristics and baseline measures found that training type did not significantly predict any outcome. Conclusion Brief written or video-based naloxone training improved students' knowledge, self-efficacy, and communication. Given the small sample, results are inconclusive regarding impact of training material type on outcomes. Innovation Teaching student pharmacists how to communicate about naloxone is important given increasing opioid overdose death rates. This study was innovative because it examined the impact of two training material types that can be delivered asynchronously and that pharmacy programs could incorporate into their curricula to improve students' naloxone communication skills.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Donna M. Evon
- Department of Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Amanda N. Stover
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, USA
| | - Trish Mashburn
- Department of Pharmaceutical Outcomes and Policy, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Scott A. Davis
- Department of Pharmaceutical Outcomes and Policy, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Delesha Carpenter
- Department of Pharmaceutical Outcomes and Policy, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
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3
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Rawal S, Osae SP, Tackett RL, MacKinnon NJ, Soiro FD, Young HN. Community pharmacists' naloxone counseling: A theory-informed qualitative study. J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) 2023; 63:1743-1752.e2. [PMID: 37633453 DOI: 10.1016/j.japh.2023.08.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Opioid-related overdose (ORO) deaths have reached a record high in the United States. Naloxone is an opioid antagonist that can rapidly reverse an opioid overdose. Pharmacists are in an ideal position to provide naloxone and related counseling, given their accessibility and expertise. However, minimal research is available on community pharmacists' naloxone counseling. OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to investigate Georgia community pharmacists' naloxone counseling as well as explore their attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control toward counseling. METHODS Semi-structured telephone interviews were conducted to elicit pharmacists' beliefs and practices regarding naloxone counseling. The interviews were guided by open-ended questions based on the theory of planned behavior (TPB). Thematic analysis was performed to identify the modal salient beliefs expressed by the pharmacists. The Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research was used to report the study findings. RESULTS A total of 12 community pharmacists participated. Pharmacists held mixed attitudes toward naloxone counseling. While they recognized it as a vital part of their profession to prevent ORO deaths, they also expressed concerns about offending patients. Regarding normative beliefs, pharmacists identified several groups, including regulatory agencies (e.g., Board of Pharmacy, CDC), managers, news/media, patients, and doctors, influencing their provision of naloxone counseling. Facilitators to counseling included receiving naloxone training and having access to counseling guidelines and resources. Reimbursement issues, high costs of naloxone, and lack of patient awareness were the most commonly cited barriers. Pharmacists reported participating in counseling and providing information on identifying signs of opioid overdose and administering naloxone. CONCLUSIONS The TPB is a useful framework for understanding community pharmacists' beliefs and practices regarding naloxone counseling. Capitalizing on facilitators and targeting barriers related to pharmacists' reimbursement issues, high costs of naloxone, and increasing patients' awareness of naloxone use and benefits may enhance pharmacists' naloxone counseling.
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Cloutier RM, Talbert A, Weidman J, Pringle JL. Project lifeline: implementing SBIRT in rural pharmacies to address opioid overdoses and substance use disorder. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF DRUG AND ALCOHOL ABUSE 2023; 49:406-417. [PMID: 36972536 DOI: 10.1080/00952990.2023.2185891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
Background: There is emerging recognition of the unique benefits of implementing screening, brief intervention, and referral to treatment (SBIRT) in pharmacy settings to identify patients who can benefit from services and connecting them to those services.Objectives: This study describes Project Lifeline - a multipronged public health initiative to provide educational and technical support to rural community pharmacies implementing SBIRT for substance use disorder (SUD) and providing harm reduction support.Methods: Eight community pharmacies were recruited. Patients receiving a Schedule II prescription were invited to engage in SBIRT and offered naloxone. Patient screening data and key informant interviews with pharmacy staff on implementation strategy were analyzed.Results: Between 2018-2020, 4,601 adult patients were offered screens and 3,407 screens were completed on 2,881 unique adult patients (51.3% female; <0.01% nonbinary; 95.7% White). Of these unique screens, 107 patients were indicated for brief intervention, 31 accepted the brief intervention; and 12 were given a referral to SUD treatment. Patients who declined SBIRT or who did not want to reduce their use were offered access to naloxone (n = 372). Key informant interviews highlighted the importance of person-centered staff education, role-playing, anti-stigma training, and integrating activities into existing patient-care processes.Conclusion: While ongoing research is needed to characterize the full impact of Project Lifeline on patient outcomes, the reported findings help reinforce the benefits of multipronged public health initiatives that include community pharmacists to address the SUD crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renee M Cloutier
- Program Evaluation and Research Unit (PERU), University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Abigail Talbert
- Program Evaluation and Research Unit (PERU), University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Joseph Weidman
- Janssen Pharmaceuticals, A Johnson and Johnson Company, West Chester, PA, USA
| | - Janice L Pringle
- Program Evaluation and Research Unit (PERU), University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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Impact of a statewide community pharmacy approach to opioid harm reduction. J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) 2023; 63:389-395.e1. [PMID: 36369073 DOI: 10.1016/j.japh.2022.10.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The past several years have seen sharp increases in opioid overdose mortality. Harm reduction resources, such as nonprescription syringes and naloxone, are used to save lives. OBJECTIVES To develop a statewide approach to increase the use of opioid harm reduction services through community pharmacies. PRACTICE DESCRIPTION The North Carolina Association of Pharmacists was awarded a grant to address opioid mortality across the state, using community pharmacies to address opioid use disorder. PRACTICE INNOVATION A statewide, standardized approach was implemented to increase knowledge and use of opioid harm reduction resources in the community pharmacy setting. EVALUATION METHODS Pharmacies were offered training related to harm reduction. Participating pharmacies provided monthly updates related to staff training, syringe access status, naloxone kits distributed, and comments about how the training was changing their practice. At the project conclusion, pharmacies provided retrospective naloxone dispensing data along with naloxone dispensing during the intervention period. Pharmacies shared the greatest benefit of the program, a potential change to make implementation simpler, and the biggest change in the pharmacist(s) as a result of the project. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze data. RESULTS A total of 58 pharmacies across 33 counties participated in the harm reduction project. Of the 100 North Carolina counties, 15 counties were identified as high-need, and 14 of the 15 high-need counties (93%) participated in this project. Of the 58 participating pharmacies, 40 pharmacies (69%) had or implemented a nondiscriminatory nonprescription syringe policy within their pharmacy. During the baseline period (January 1, 2018, to June 15, 2018), 177 prescriptions for naloxone were dispensed by participating pharmacies. During the intervention period (January 1, 2019, to June 15, 2019), 639 prescriptions for naloxone were dispensed, representing a 361% increase in naloxone dispensing. CONCLUSION The successful implementation of a standardized, statewide approach increased access to harm reduction services.
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Sokol M, Do A, Hui D, St Jacques S, Sureshbabu S, Weerakoon-Wijeratne A, Bhakta K, Humpert S, Witry M, Evoy KE. Community pharmacists' counseling regarding nicotine replacement therapy: A secret shopper study. J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) 2022; 63:574-581.e3. [PMID: 36549932 DOI: 10.1016/j.japh.2022.11.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Revised: 11/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) is a safe and effective non-prescription tobacco cessation treatment. While most community-based pharmacists periodically provide patient education regarding NRT, there is a gap in real-world evidence assessing the counseling provided. OBJECTIVES To assess community pharmacist counseling regarding NRT in a real-world setting. METHODS A cross-sectional secret shopper audit was conducted to collect data regarding NRT counseling from 120 community pharmacist encounters. Seventeen trained college of pharmacy students presented to community pharmacies using a standardized script asking about 1 of 3 common NRT products (patch, gum, and lozenge). Pharmacies were randomly selected from a list of all community pharmacies open to the public in Bexar County, Texas. A standardized assessment form was used to document product availability, counseling length, whether or not the 7 counseling points and 6 assessment questions that could help guide the pharmacist's counseling regarding NRT products were provided without prompting, and potential inaccuracy of any recommendations and counseling points. Descriptive statistics were calculated, and analysis of variance and Fisher's exact test were used to test for variation across site type and time of day. RESULTS NRT was available for purchase without speaking to pharmacy staff in 99 of 120 (83%) pharmacies. The mean length of counseling was 136 (standard deviation = 91) seconds. The most common points discussed were recommended strength (72%), tapering schedule (58%), and assessment of the daily number of cigarettes smoked (56%). Forty-one (34%) pharmacists provided one or more potentially inaccurate counseling points, the most common being inaccurate tapering schedule (provided during 31 (26%) encounters). Only 15% of pharmacists referred auditors for additional help or recommended a follow-up. CONCLUSION NRT was commonly accessible in community pharmacies outside of the pharmacy area. Opportunities for pharmacists to provide more complete and accurate information to better assist patients with safe and effective smoking cessation were identified.
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Rankin KA, Mosier-Mills A, Hsiang W, Wiznia DH. Secret shopper studies: an unorthodox design that measures inequities in healthcare access. Arch Public Health 2022; 80:226. [PMID: 36329541 PMCID: PMC9635177 DOI: 10.1186/s13690-022-00979-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Revised: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Secret shopper studies are particularly potent study designs that allow for the gathering of objective data for a variety of research hypotheses, including but not limited to, healthcare delivery, equity of healthcare, and potential barriers to care. Of particular interest during the COVID-19 pandemic, secret shopper study designs allow for the gathering of data over the phone. However, there is a dearth of literature available on appropriate methodological practices for these types of studies. To make these study designs more widely accessible, here we outline the case for using the secret shopper methodology and detail best practices for designing and implementing them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelsey A Rankin
- Yale School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, 06510, New Haven, CT, USA.
| | | | - Walter Hsiang
- Yale School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, 06510, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Daniel H Wiznia
- Yale School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, 06510, New Haven, CT, USA
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8
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Nguyen T, Applewhite D, Cheung F, Jacob S, Mitchell E. Implementation of a multidisciplinary inpatient opioid overdose education and naloxone distribution program at a large academic medical center. Am J Health Syst Pharm 2022; 79:2253-2260. [PMID: 36075057 DOI: 10.1093/ajhp/zxac252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] 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 Opioid overdose-related deaths continue to rise. Despite public health efforts, there is still variability in obtainment of naloxone, a lifesaving antidote. We share our experience in the implementation of a novel opioid overdose education and naloxone distribution (OEND) program at a large academic medical center. METHODS Collaborative efforts by pharmacists, pharmacy students, physicians, nurses, and recovery coaches were employed in the design of the program. The service was available Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 6 PM, and primarily carried out by pharmacy students on a rotating basis. Services offered included bedside delivery of naloxone and education prior to the day of discharge. In preparation for their role, the pharmacy students were required to complete a series of trainings and competency assessments. RESULTS A total of 40 patients were included in the program evaluation. Of the completed consults 96.7% (n = 30) of patients received both counseling and naloxone delivery. Eighty percent of patients had a history of nonfatal opioid overdose, but only 37.5% had naloxone listed as a home medication. Fifteen percent of patients had patient-directed discharges but still received OEND services. CONCLUSION Implementation of an inpatient OEND program by mobilizing trained student pharmacists is feasible and expands naloxone access to patients during transitions of care. A similar model could be considered in the future for the delivery of harm reduction supplies to this patient population.
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Affiliation(s)
- TuTran Nguyen
- Department of Pharmacy, The Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA.,Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Dinah Applewhite
- Division of General Internal Medicine, The Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA.,Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Fiona Cheung
- Department of Pharmacy, The Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA.,Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Susan Jacob
- Department of Pharmacy, The Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA.,Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Elisabeth Mitchell
- Department of Pharmacy, The Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA.,Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA
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Lai RK, Friedson KE, Reveles KR, Bhakta K, Gonzales G, Hill LG, Evoy KE. Naloxone Accessibility Without an Outside Prescription from U.S. Community Pharmacies: A Systematic Review. J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) 2022; 62:1725-1740. [DOI: 10.1016/j.japh.2022.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
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Pollini RA, Ozga JE, Joyce R, Xuan Z, Walley AY. Limited access to pharmacy-based naloxone in West Virginia: Results from a statewide purchase trial. Drug Alcohol Depend 2022; 231:109259. [PMID: 34998246 PMCID: PMC8810724 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2021.109259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Revised: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND West Virginia (WV) has the highest overdose mortality rate in the United States and expanding naloxone access is crucial for reducing opioid overdose deaths. We conducted a purchase trial to establish an objective measure of naloxone access under WV's naloxone standing order (NSO) program. METHODS A stratified random sample of 200 chain and independent retail pharmacies across WV were included. Each pharmacy underwent two purchase attempts-one by a person who used illicit opioids (PWUIO) and one by a potential bystander who did not use illicit opioids but had a relationship with a PWUIO. We used matched-pairs analysis to identify differences in outcomes by purchaser type (PWUIO vs bystander). Chi-square and independent-samples t-tests were used to compare outcomes by pharmacy type (chain vs independent). RESULTS Overall, 29% of purchase attempts were successful, with no significant difference between PWUIO and bystanders (p = 0.798). Fewer than half (44%) of successful purchases included verbal counseling, and bystanders were more likely to receive counseling than PWUIO (33% vs 4%, p = 0.018). Common reasons for failed purchases were naloxone not being in stock (41%), requiring a naloxone prescription (35%), and/or requiring formal identification (23%). Chain pharmacies were more likely to sell naloxone than independents (35% vs 19%, p = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS We documented limited naloxone access under the WV NSO. These findings indicate that simply establishing an NSO program is insufficient to expand access. Implementation efforts should ensure adequate naloxone stocks, pro-active delivery of NSO-related information and pharmacist training, and avoidance of recordkeeping requirements that may impede access.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin A. Pollini
- Department of Behavioral Medicine & Psychiatry, School of Medicine, West Virginia University, 3602 Collins Ferry Road, Morgantown WV, 26505, United States,Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, West Virginia University, 3602 Collins Ferry Road, Morgantown WV, 26505, United States
| | - Jenny E. Ozga
- Department of Behavioral Medicine & Psychiatry, School of Medicine, West Virginia University, 3602 Collins Ferry Road, Morgantown WV, 26505, United States
| | - Rebecca Joyce
- Department of Behavioral Medicine & Psychiatry, School of Medicine, West Virginia University, 3602 Collins Ferry Road, Morgantown WV, 26505, United States
| | - Ziming Xuan
- Department of Community Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Boston University, Crosstown Building - CT 454, 801 Massachusetts Ave, 4th Floor, Boston, MA 02118, United States
| | - Alexander Y. Walley
- Boston Medical Center and Boston University School of Medicine, Grayken Center for Addiction, Clinical Addiction Research and Education Unit, Section of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, 801 Massachusetts Ave, 2nd Floor, Boston, MA 02118, United States
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Pollini RA, Slocum S, Ozga J, Joyce R, Xuan Z, Green TC, Walley AY. Pharmacists' experiences with a statewide naloxone standing order program in Massachusetts: a mixed methods study. J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) 2022; 62:157-166. [PMID: 34511372 PMCID: PMC8742759 DOI: 10.1016/j.japh.2021.08.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Revised: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In a prior statewide naloxone purchase trial conducted in Massachusetts, we documented a high rate of naloxone dispensing under the state's standing order program. The purpose of this study was to understand the factors that facilitate naloxone access under the Massachusetts naloxone standing order (NSO) program and identify any remaining barriers amenable to intervention. DESIGN Mixed methods design involving a pharmacist survey and 3 pharmacist focus groups. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS Focus groups were conducted at 3 separate professional conferences for pharmacists (n = 27). The survey was conducted among Massachusetts pharmacists (n = 339) working at a stratified random sample chain and independent retail pharmacies across Massachusetts. All data were collected between September 2018 and November 2019. OUTCOME MEASURES Facilitators and barriers to NSO implementation and naloxone dispensing and pharmacists' attitudes and beliefs regarding naloxone and opioid use. RESULTS Most pharmacists described NSO implementation as being straightforward, although differences were reported by pharmacy type in both the survey and focus groups. Facilitators included centralized implementation at chain pharmacies, access to Web-based resources, regularly stocking naloxone, and use of naloxone-specific intake forms. Barriers included patient confidentiality concerns and payment/cost issues. Only 31% of surveyed pharmacists reported always providing naloxone counseling; the most commonly cited barriers were perceived patient discomfort (21%) and time limitations (14%). Confidential space was also more of a concern for independent (vs. chain) pharmacists (18% vs. 6%, P = 0.008). A majority of pharmacists held supportive attitudes toward naloxone, although some reported having moral/ethical concerns about naloxone provision. CONCLUSION We documented several facilitators to NSO implementation and naloxone dispensing. Areas for improvement include addressing stigma and misconceptions around opioids and naloxone use. These remain important targets for improving pharmacy-based naloxone dispensing, although our overall positive results suggest Massachusetts' experience with NSO implementation can inform other states' efforts to expand pharmacy-based naloxone access.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin A. Pollini
- Associate Professor (Pollini), Research Associate (Slocum), Postdoctoral Fellow (Ozga), and Project Coordinator (Joyce), Department of Behavioral Medicine & Psychiatry, School of Medicine, West Virginia University, Morgantown WV,Associate Professor, Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, West Virginia University
| | - Susannah Slocum
- Associate Professor (Pollini), Research Associate (Slocum), Postdoctoral Fellow (Ozga), and Project Coordinator (Joyce), Department of Behavioral Medicine & Psychiatry, School of Medicine, West Virginia University, Morgantown WV
| | - Jenny Ozga
- Associate Professor (Pollini), Research Associate (Slocum), Postdoctoral Fellow (Ozga), and Project Coordinator (Joyce), Department of Behavioral Medicine & Psychiatry, School of Medicine, West Virginia University, Morgantown WV
| | - Rebecca Joyce
- Associate Professor (Pollini), Research Associate (Slocum), Postdoctoral Fellow (Ozga), and Project Coordinator (Joyce), Department of Behavioral Medicine & Psychiatry, School of Medicine, West Virginia University, Morgantown WV
| | - Ziming Xuan
- Associate Professor, Department of Community Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Boston University, Boston MA
| | - Traci C. Green
- Professor, The Opioid Policy Research Collaborative, Institute of Behavioral Health, Heller School for Policy and Management, Brandeis University, Waltham, MA
| | - Alexander Y. Walley
- Associate Professor, Grayken Center for Addiction, Boston Medical Center, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston MA
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Gilbert L, Elliott J, Beasley L, Oranu E, Roth K, Nguyễn J. Naloxone availability in independent community pharmacies in Georgia, 2019. Subst Abuse Treat Prev Policy 2021; 16:63. [PMID: 34419089 PMCID: PMC8379837 DOI: 10.1186/s13011-021-00402-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Increasing the availability of naloxone among people who use opioids, and friends and family of past and present people who use opioids is a vitally important mission to reduce the occurrence of opioid-related overdose deaths. The purpose of this study was to determine the availability of naloxone in independent community pharmacies in Georgia. Secondary objectives include determining pharmacists' knowledge regarding the standing order and ability to counsel regarding naloxone. METHODS A cross-sectional study using a secret shopper approach with phone contact was conducted over a period of 10 months. The study was population based and was conducted at all independent pharmacies in the state of Georgia. All independent community pharmacies in the state of Georgia were contacted and asked the naloxone questions with a 96% response rate (n = 520). RESULTS Five hundred fifty-eight independent community pharmacies were called, with a 96% response rate (n = 520 pharmacies). Two hundred-twenty pharmacies reported having naloxone in stock. Of the 335 pharmacists asked, 174 (51.9%) incorrectly said that a prescription was required. The mean (SD) cash price was $148.02 (27.40), with a range of $0 to $300. Of 237 pharmacists asked who had naloxone in stock or who stated they could get naloxone in stock, 212 stated that they could demonstrate how to use it, 8 stated they could not, and 17 said that they possibly could or were unsure how to use it. CONCLUSIONS This study provided insight into the limited availability of naloxone at independent community pharmacies in Georgia after the standing order was issued. The majority of pharmacists at independent pharmacies in Georgia were not using the publicly available state naloxone standing order. Additionally, the low availability of naloxone and its high cost for uninsured individuals are significant structural barriers for reducing opioid-related mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Gilbert
- University of Houston College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jennifer Elliott
- Mercer University College of Pharmacy, 3001 Mercer University Drive, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Lauren Beasley
- Mercer University College of Pharmacy, 3001 Mercer University Drive, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Ekene Oranu
- Mercer University College of Pharmacy, 3001 Mercer University Drive, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Kimberly Roth
- Mercer University School of Medicine, Savannah, GA, USA
| | - Jennifer Nguyễn
- Mercer University College of Pharmacy, 3001 Mercer University Drive, Atlanta, GA, USA.
- Mercer University School of Medicine, Savannah, GA, USA.
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Puzantian T, Gasper JJ, Ramirez CM. Pharmacist furnishing of naloxone in California: A follow-up analysis. J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) 2021; 61:e108-e112. [PMID: 34246575 DOI: 10.1016/j.japh.2021.06.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Revised: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Increasing naloxone access in communities has been a priority to mitigate the increasing rate of opioid-related overdose deaths. OBJECTIVES The aims of this telephone survey were to estimate the availability of naloxone furnishing (provided without a prescription) by community pharmacists in California and examine the changes that occurred between 2018 and 2020. METHODS A telephone audit of a random representative sample of 1271 California licensed community pharmacies was conducted from January 22, 2020, to February 24, 2020. The results were compared with those of a survey of 1147 California licensed community pharmacies that was conducted from January 23, 2018, to February 28, 2018. The primary outcomes measured were naloxone availability without a prescription, information on formulations, cost, insurance billing, and stocking status. RESULTS There was a statistically significant increase in the furnishing of naloxone, as well as stocking and billing, in California from 2018 to 2020. Although fewer than half of the pharmacies were willing to provide naloxone without a prescription in 2020 (n = 487, 42.4%), this was an 80% increase from 2018 (P < 0.001). Of the pharmacies furnishing naloxone, many (n = 399, 81.9%) had nasal naloxone in stock, a large and statistically significant increase from 2018 when only 50.6% reported having it in stock (P < 0.001). In 2020, 90% of the pharmacies reported correctly that pharmacist-furnished naloxone could be billed to insurance compared with 56.9% in 2018 (P < 0.001). The median cash price of nasal naloxone (pack of 2) at chain pharmacies in 2020 was $131 (interquartile range [IQR] $129-$138) compared with $153 (IQR, $141-$163; P = 0.001) at independent pharmacies. CONCLUSION Community pharmacy-based access to naloxone increased in a statistically significant manner in California, although more than half of the pharmacies still do not provide such access. This study demonstrates the need for further efforts to expand community pharmacy-based access to naloxone.
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Evoy KE, Hill LG, Davis CS. Reply to Letter to the Editor Regarding Article: "Considering the Potential Benefits of Over-The-Counter Naloxone" [Response To Letter]. INTEGRATED PHARMACY RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2021; 10:77-78. [PMID: 34268103 PMCID: PMC8277415 DOI: 10.2147/iprp.s327403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Kirk E Evoy
- Division of Pharmacotherapy, The University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy, San Antonio, TX, USA.,Department of Pharmacy, University Health, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Lucas G Hill
- Division of Pharmacy Practice, The University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy, Austin, TX, USA
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Evoy KE, Hill LG, Davis CS. Considering the Potential Benefits of Over-the-Counter Naloxone. INTEGRATED PHARMACY RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2021; 10:13-21. [PMID: 33623754 PMCID: PMC7894851 DOI: 10.2147/iprp.s244709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Since 1999, annual opioid-related overdose (ORO) mortality has increased more than six-fold. In response to this crisis, the US Department of Health and Human Services outlined a 5-point strategy to reduce ORO mortality which included the widespread distribution of naloxone, an opioid antagonist that can rapidly reverse an opioid overdose. Increased distribution has been facilitated by the implementation of naloxone access laws in each US state aimed at increasing community access to naloxone. While these laws differ from state-to-state, most contain mechanisms to enable pharmacists to dispense naloxone without a patient-specific prescription. These laws have enhanced community naloxone distribution, both from pharmacies and overdose education and naloxone distribution programs, and produced positive effects on ORO mortality. However, a growing body of evidence has revealed that significant barriers to naloxone access from pharmacies remain, and annual ORO deaths have continued to climb. Given these concerns, there has been a push among some clinicians and policymakers for the US Food and Drug Administration to re-classify naloxone as an over-the-counter (OTC) medication as a means to further increase its accessibility. If an OTC transition occurs, educational outreach and funding for clinical innovations will continue to be crucial given the important role of health professionals in recommending naloxone to people at risk for experiencing or witnessing an ORO. Recognizing the severity of the ORO public health crisis, we believe transitioning formulations of naloxone approved for layperson use to OTC status would result in a net benefit through increased access. However, such a change should be combined with measures to ensure affordability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirk E Evoy
- University Health, Department of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Lucas G Hill
- Pharmacy Practice, The University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy, Austin, TX, USA
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