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Uren A, Dawson S, Cotterill N, Williams A, McLeod H, Chandler D, Watson M. The role of community pharmacy in the promotion of continence care: A systematic review. Res Social Adm Pharm 2024; 20:689-696. [PMID: 38772839 DOI: 10.1016/j.sapharm.2024.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Community pharmacies are convenient healthcare settings which provide a wide range of services in addition to medicine supply. Continence care is an area where there is an opportunity for the implementation of new innovations to improve clinical and service outcomes. The objective was to systematically evaluate evidence for the effectiveness, safety, acceptability and key determinants of interventions for the promotion and implementation of continence care in the community pharmacy setting. METHODS The protocol was registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews database (PROSPERO: CRD42022322558). The databases Medline, Embase, PsycINFO and CINAHL were searched and supplemented by grey literature searches, according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses checklist. In total, 338 titles and abstracts were screened, 20 studies underwent full-text screening and four studies met the inclusion criteria and underwent quality assessment. The results are reported narratively due to the heterogeneity of study designs. RESULTS There was some evidence for the effectiveness of interventions, resulting in increased provision of consumer self-help advice and materials, referrals to other care providers, and an increase in staff knowledge and confidence in continence care. Evidence was inconclusive for clinical outcomes due to small sample sizes and poor follow-up rates. Acceptability of interventions to both pharmacy staff and consumers was generally positive with some frustrations with reimbursement procedures and time constraints. Facilitators of a successful pharmacy-based continence service are likely to include staff training, high-quality self-care resources, increased public awareness, and the establishment of effective referral pathways and appropriate reimbursement (of service providers). CONCLUSIONS There is a paucity of evidence regarding the contribution of the community pharmacy sector to continence care. The development of a new pharmacy bladder and bowel service should involve patients, healthcare professionals and policy stakeholders to address the potential barriers and build upon the facilitators identified by this review. PATIENT SUMMARY We identified research that had explored how community pharmacy (chemist) personnel might support people with continence problems (e.g. bladder and bowel leakage). Only four studies were identified, however, they reported that training for pharmacy personnel and providing self-help advice about continence can be successful and was well-received by patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan Uren
- School of Health and Social Wellbeing, College of Health, Science and Society, University of the West of England, Blackberry Hill, Bristol, UK; Bristol Urological Institute, Southmead Hospital, Bristol, UK.
| | - Shoba Dawson
- Centre for Academic Primary Care, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Nikki Cotterill
- School of Health and Social Wellbeing, College of Health, Science and Society, University of the West of England, Blackberry Hill, Bristol, UK
| | | | - Hugh McLeod
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK; National Institute for Health and Care Research Applied Research Collaboration West (NIHR ARC West) at University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK
| | | | - Margaret Watson
- Watson Research and Training Limited, Aberdeen, AB15 8FL, UK; Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, 160 Cathedral Street, Glasgow, G4 0RE, UK
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Al-Salman J, Amir A, Moore LS, Poulakou G, Soriano A, Abdallah J, Abutidze A, Amin W, El Assal G, Nombulelo M, Tarawneh F, Hassanien A. The Management of Patients at High Risk of Serious COVID-19 Disease: Optimising the Patient Pathway in the Middle East, Africa, and Eastern Europe. Cureus 2024; 16:e60727. [PMID: 38779436 PMCID: PMC11110092 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.60727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction For patients at high risk of severe COVID-19 disease, antiviral therapeutic options are available to reduce the risk of hospitalization or death. Although many countries have developed national guidelines for COVID-19 management that include use of antiviral agents, it is unclear how these guidelines are used in daily clinical practice. This study aims to assess the management of high-risk COVID-19 patients in the Middle East, Africa, and Eastern Europe, with a focus on understanding current practices, challenges, and potential strategies for improvement. Methods Healthcare professionals (HCPs) from the Middle East, Africa, and Eastern Europe came together at a regional summit in February 2023 to share perspectives on the therapeutic management of patients at high risk of serious COVID-19 disease in the community. Summit participants represented diverse medical specialties, geographical regions, and healthcare settings. Key insights gathered during the summit were supplemented with evidence from the published literature via a non-systematic literature search of MEDLINE and online sources such as government reports since the start of 2020 to identify articles on disease burden, unmet needs, treatment access, antiviral therapy, guidelines related to individuals with COVID-19 at high-risk for poor outcomes in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Together, these sources were used by the authors to generate their recommendations for future priorities and optimal care pathways globally. Results Specific insights gathered from the summit were that participants reported that primary care is the first point of contact for high-risk patients, but the role of primary care physicians (PCPs) in treatment is uncertain. Additionally, participants highlighted that between-country differences in the care pathway for high-risk patients are due to variations in local treatment practices, healthcare system structures, and resourcing. In line with the published literature, participants agreed that HCP education is needed to support the identification, counseling, and appropriate management of high-risk patients and that pharmacists have a critical role to play in identifying clinically important potential interactions with antiviral treatment and recommending appropriate adjustments. Furthermore, patient hesitancy can result in late presentation, delayed treatment, and potential progression of symptoms. HCPs should proactively counsel high-risk patients, so they are aware of their risk and its implications and understand what to do if they experience symptoms of COVID-19. Targeted educational initiatives for patients are needed to mitigate reluctance to undergo COVID-19 testing and counter COVID-19 misinformation. Conclusion Collaboration among stakeholders is essential to optimize COVID-19 management for high-risk patients globally, ensuring effective implementation of guidelines and improving outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ashraf Amir
- Executive Medical Services, International Medical Center Hospital, Jeddah, SAU
| | - Luke Sp Moore
- Infectious Diseases, Chelsea and Westminster NHS Foundation Trust, London, GBR
| | - Garyphallia Poulakou
- Internal Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Sotiria General Hospital, Athens, GRC
| | - Alex Soriano
- Infectious Diseases, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Barcelona, ESP
| | | | - Akaki Abutidze
- Infectious Diseases, AIDS and Clinical Immunology Research Center, Tbilisi, GEO
| | - Wagdy Amin
- Chest Diseases, Ministry of Health and Population, Cairo, EGY
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Thomas D, Abdalla A, Hussein S, Joury J, Elshamy A, Khalifa S, Saleh Z. Pharmacists' readiness and willingness to vaccinate the public in United Arab Emirates community pharmacies: A cross-sectional study. F1000Res 2024; 12:292. [PMID: 38774308 PMCID: PMC11106594 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.131153.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Pharmacist-administered vaccination is currently implemented in many countries worldwide. It has contributed to increased vaccine access and vaccine uptake. This observational cross-sectional study assessed community pharmacists' willingness, and readiness to administer vaccines to the public in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and relate it to national and international policies on vaccination. Methods This research was an online survey of 24-questions that was made available to community pharmacists via social media and WhatsApp. The survey was open for six weeks (from April to June 2022). Descriptive and inferential analysis was performed. Results The questionnaire was completed by 374 of 575 (65%) respondents. More than half (64.2%) of the respondents agreed or strongly agreed that pharmacists should be able to vaccinate and 68.4% responded that they were willing to administer vaccines if local regulations allowed them to vaccinate. Most (81.8%) expressed willingness to complete training required to be able to administer vaccines in their pharmacies. Logistic regression showed that pharmacists defined as having high readiness were significantly more willing to undergo all essential training to start a vaccination service in their pharmacies than were pharmacists with poor readiness (OR 2.647; 95% CI: 1.518-4.615; p=0.001). High readiness was also significantly associated with agreement on safety of pharmacy-based vaccination (p=0.027). Conclusions The majority of community pharmacists surveyed showed readiness to commence pharmacy-based vaccination services. Those with high readiness characteristics are amenable to receiving essential training and consider that vaccination in the community pharmacy setting would be safe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dixon Thomas
- College of Pharmacy, Gulf Medical University, Ajman, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Saeed Hussein
- Global Medical Solutions, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Jean Joury
- Pfizer Gulf FZ LLC, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Amin Elshamy
- Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP), Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Sherief Khalifa
- College of Pharmacy, Gulf Medical University, Ajman, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ziad Saleh
- Al Ain Pharmacy Group, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
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Montero-Gómez A. [Diagnosis by isothermal amplification of nucleic acids. Opportunity for community pharmacies]. FARMACEUTICOS COMUNITARIOS 2024; 16:46-53. [PMID: 39156031 PMCID: PMC11328073 DOI: 10.33620/fc.2173-9218.(2024).14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/16/2024] [Indexed: 08/20/2024]
Abstract
This review focuses on describing new commercially available POC-type molecular diagnostic systems that can be easily implemented in community pharmacies and have the potential to expand the portfolio of pharmaceutical services and make a significant contribution to the improvement of public health.Knowledge of new molecular diagnostic techniques other than PCR is relatively unexplored. However, the available options are diverse and have reached sufficient technological maturity for large-scale use. The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has brought diagnostic tests to market that, in some cases, have been used exclusively in research for decades.Isothermal nucleic acid amplification technology continues to evolve and it is likely that in the coming years we will witness an exponential increase in its use, as well as the development of new improvements that further simplify and reduce the cost of each assay.Furthermore, we cannot ignore the fact that during the COVID-19 pandemic, the public has become accustomed to self-diagnosing through mass distribution channels such as community pharmacies. Which can open the sector to other diseases - such as sexually transmitted diseases or animal health -, food control, water and air contamination (fungi) or the presence of allergens.Knowledge of them is an essential technological surveillance strategy for the pharmaceutical sector.
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O'Donnell S, Hayden J, Quigley E, Adamis D, Gavin B, McNicholas F. "We're seen as part of the supply chain of medicines rather than as the professionals that we are": The wellbeing of community pharmacists during the COVID response. Res Social Adm Pharm 2024; 20:389-400. [PMID: 38350789 DOI: 10.1016/j.sapharm.2023.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 12/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Challenges facing community pharmacists in delivering and adapting services during the COVID-19 response have been reported. However, few qualitative studies have examined the impact of these experiences on their wellbeing, and what supports the profession requires in the future. AIM(S) To examine the work-related experiences and psychosocial needs of community pharmacists situated in the Republic of Ireland arising from the COVID-19 response. METHOD 11 pharmacists and 1 representative were interviewed and data analysed through inductive thematic analysis. RESULTS Work experiences were characterised by increased workload linked to multiple roles pharmacists played during the pandemic. Remaining open, meeting the social and medical needs of patients unable to easily access other primary services exerted its toll on pharmacists while at the same time providing a sense of professional fulfilment. Participants felt contributions made to the community during COVID-19 went largely unrecognised by the wider healthcare structure. This added to a prior sense of professional disenchantment arising from long-standing under-resourcing, lack of clinical autonomy and high administrative burden eroding their sense of purpose and meaning. Informal, peer-support networks were preferred over formal psychological support initiatives. CONCLUSIONS The post-pandemic environment is an opportune time for policy makers to reconsider the role of community pharmacists. Greater clinical autonomy beyond dispensing of medicines, for example, for example, would also serve to enhance the sense of purpose and meaning of pharmacists as healthcare professionals. The longer-term well-being of community pharmacists is contingent on recognition of the value that community pharmacy bring both to the healthcare system and wider society as a whole.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shane O'Donnell
- Department of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, School of Medicine and Medical Science, University College Dublin (UCD), Ireland.
| | - John Hayden
- RCSI School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences (PBS), Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Ireland
| | - Etain Quigley
- National University of Ireland, Maynooth (Maynooth University) - Department of Law, Ireland
| | | | - Blánaid Gavin
- Department of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, School of Medicine and Medical Science, University College Dublin (UCD), Ireland
| | - Fiona McNicholas
- Department of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, School of Medicine and Medical Science, University College Dublin (UCD), Ireland; Children Health Ireland, Crumlin, Dublin 12, Ireland; Lucena Clinic Rathgar, Dublin 6, Ireland
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Carroll JC, Herbert SMC, Nguyen TQ, Schork CJ, Kampas LN, Rebitch CB. Vaccination equity and the role of community pharmacy in the United States: A qualitative study. Vaccine 2024; 42:564-572. [PMID: 38195264 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2023.12.063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To identify strategies community pharmacists utilized to support equitable vaccination in their communities. STUDY DESIGN Qualitative, descriptive design. METHODS Key informant interviews were conducted virtually via teleconference using a mix of purposeful and snowball sampling of Pennsylvania community pharmacy personnel who participated in COVID-19 vaccination efforts. Interviews were conducted from March until August 2022 when thematic saturation was reached. A qualitative, inductive thematic data analysis was utilized to identify major themes and strategies that emerged from the data. RESULTS Pharmacists utilized three philosophies: (1) prioritizing trust, (2) meeting people where they are at, and (3) building capacity within their teams and communities to create "safe spaces" for people to receive vaccinations. Nine discrete strategies used in practice exemplify how respondents implemented these philosophies: (1) Build Community Partnerships; (2) Establish Trust to Build Credibility; (3) Address Transportation Issues; (4) Provide Patient Education and Address Health Literacy Barriers; (5) Address Language Barriers; (6) Create a Safe and Accessible Space for Those with Individualized Needs; (7) Provide Patient-Centered and Culturally-Sensitive Care; (8) Train Staff on Health Equity and Patient Engagement; and (9) Advocate for Community Pharmacy Policy and Payment Reform. Definitions for these philosophies and key examples that illustrate how each strategy was employed in practice are provided. CONCLUSION The findings highlight unique strategies respondent community-based pharmacy teams use to contribute to equitable vaccination efforts in communities and further emphasizes the importance of their role in public health initiatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joni C Carroll
- University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy, 3501 Terrace Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, United States.
| | - Sophia M C Herbert
- University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy, 3501 Terrace Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, United States.
| | - Thai Q Nguyen
- University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy, 3501 Terrace Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, United States.
| | - Caleb J Schork
- University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy, 3501 Terrace Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, United States.
| | - Lindsey N Kampas
- University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy, 3501 Terrace Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, United States.
| | - Catherine B Rebitch
- University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy, 3501 Terrace Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, United States.
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Gibson H, Sanders C, Blakeman T, Ashcroft DM, Fudge N, Howells K. Providing care to marginalised communities: a qualitative study of community pharmacy teams. Br J Gen Pract 2024; 74:e49-e55. [PMID: 38154937 PMCID: PMC10755997 DOI: 10.3399/bjgp.2023.0267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Health inequalities in the UK are widening, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic. Community pharmacies are the most visited healthcare provider in England and are ideally placed to provide and facilitate access to care for those most disadvantaged. AIM To explore the experiences and needs of community pharmacy teams in providing care for marginalised groups and how this has changed since the COVID-19 pandemic. DESIGN AND SETTING A qualitative study in community pharmacy and across primary care. METHOD Semi-structured interviews were undertaken with members of community pharmacy teams, primary care network (PCN) pharmacists, GPs, and nurses in the North of England. RESULTS In total, 31 individuals participated in an interview (26 pharmacy staff, three GPs, and two nurses). Most participants acknowledged that their pharmacy had become busier since COVID-19 because of increased footfall compounded by patient difficulties in navigating remote digital systems. Few participants had received any formal training on working with marginalised communities; however, organisational barriers (such as lack of access to translation facilities) combined with interorganisational barriers (such as lack of integrated care) made it more difficult to provide care for some marginalised groups. Despite this, the continuity of care provided by many pharmacies was viewed as an important factor in enabling marginalised groups to access and receive care. CONCLUSION There are opportunities to better utilise the skills of community pharmacy teams. Resources, such as access to translation services, and interventions to enable better communication between community pharmacy teams and other primary care services, such as general practice, are essential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen Gibson
- National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) School for Primary Care Research, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester; NIHR Greater Manchester Patient Safety Research Collaboration, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Caroline Sanders
- National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) School for Primary Care Research, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester; NIHR Greater Manchester Patient Safety Research Collaboration, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Thomas Blakeman
- National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) School for Primary Care Research, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester; NIHR Greater Manchester Patient Safety Research Collaboration, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Darren M Ashcroft
- NIHR School for Primary Care Research, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester; NIHR Greater Manchester Patient Safety Research Collaboration, The University of Manchester; Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Nina Fudge
- Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Queen Mary University of London, London
| | - Kelly Howells
- National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) School for Primary Care Research, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester; NIHR Greater Manchester Patient Safety Research Collaboration, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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Putignano S, Forgione L, Fusco M, Giacummo A, Magli E, Marino S, Marzano R, Putignano D, Santamaria F, Spatarella M, Santagada V. Early Detection Screening of Cognitive Decline in Patients Over 60 Years: ELDERCARE Study. J Alzheimers Dis 2024; 98:145-150. [PMID: 38339935 PMCID: PMC11191486 DOI: 10.3233/jad-231295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
Background Dementia is the fourth leading cause of death in people > 65 years old in western countries. Objective This cross-sectional assisted survey aimed to evaluate a multidisciplinary team approach of specialists of the Associazione Geriatri Extraospedalieri a favore di Anziani Svantaggiati and pharmacists to facilitate progress in the early identification and management of cognitive decline in patients > 60 years. Methods A multidisciplinary team conducted this cross-sectional assisted survey. Patients (>60 years) with independent and/or assisted walking, subjective memory impairment, mild cognitive impairment or mild Alzheimer's disease (AD) who regularly attended pharmacies underwent the survey. An internal medical examination, a cardiovascular visit, and a short neuropsychological evaluation were conducted for each patient. Demographic, anamnestic, and clinical data were collected anonymously. Results 279 eligible patients underwent the screening phase. 44% were overweight, 23% obese and 29% hypertensive. 62% of cases showed alterations of supra-aortic trunk with different percentages of stenosis. The neuropsychological evaluation highlighted that 67% of cases were normal according to age and education level, while 18% were in a state condition of cognitive frailty. Mild/moderate cognitive decline, or probably AD, was identified in 14% of cases. Conclusions A multidisciplinary collaboration between pharmacists and specialist medical doctors is essential in early identification of prodromal symptoms of cognitive impairment and AD. The Prompt detection of the condition in this group of patients allowed the specialists to recommend in-depth diagnostic tests and follow-up procedures to slow the course of the disease. This would give time to carry out adequate caregiver training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salvatore Putignano
- Associazione Geriatri Extraospedalieri a favore di Anziani Svantaggiati (A.G.E.A.S.), Naples, Italy
| | - Luigi Forgione
- Associazione Geriatri Extraospedalieri a favore di Anziani Svantaggiati (A.G.E.A.S.), Naples, Italy
| | - Mariano Fusco
- Ordine dei Farmacisti della Provincia di Napoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Attilio Giacummo
- Associazione Geriatri Extraospedalieri a favore di Anziani Svantaggiati (A.G.E.A.S.), Naples, Italy
| | - Elisa Magli
- Ordine dei Farmacisti della Provincia di Napoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Saverio Marino
- Associazione Geriatri Extraospedalieri a favore di Anziani Svantaggiati (A.G.E.A.S.), Naples, Italy
| | | | - Daria Putignano
- Associazione Geriatri Extraospedalieri a favore di Anziani Svantaggiati (A.G.E.A.S.), Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Santamaria
- Associazione Geriatri Extraospedalieri a favore di Anziani Svantaggiati (A.G.E.A.S.), Naples, Italy
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Tadele S, Demissie BN, Tamiru MT, Tadesse TA. Knowledge and attitudes of community pharmacists on vaccination, barriers and willingness to implement community pharmacy-based vaccination services in Ethiopia. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2023; 19:2291243. [PMID: 38111325 PMCID: PMC10732657 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2023.2291243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge and attitudes of community pharmacists (CPs) on vaccination and assess the barriers and willingness to implement community pharmacy-based vaccination services (CPBVS) in Ethiopia. An online cross-sectional study was conducted on 423 CPs in Ethiopia, and questionnaires were distributed to CPs through the Ethiopian Pharmaceutical Association telegram group and e-mail invitations. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 27. Most CPs (92%) had good knowledge of vaccination, and 43.5% strongly agreed that the population's immunization rates would rise if CPs were authorized to provide vaccinations. The overall mean attitude score (±SD) toward vaccination was 35.95 (±4.11) out of a total score of 45, with 187 (44.2%) scoring below the mean. The most common barriers were lack of authorization (94.1%), costs and time associated with professional development and training (71.4%), time requirements for professional development (70%), and insufficient staff or resources for implementation (70%). Two hundred thirty CPs (54.4%) expressed a willingness to implement CPBVS. Educational qualifications were significantly associated with knowledge of CPs regarding vaccination. Those with inadequate knowledge had about 2.5 times (AOR = 2.51, 95% CI: 1.19, 5.31, p = .016) a poorer attitude toward vaccination services compared with those with adequate knowledge. Those study participants who had a good attitude toward vaccination services were nearly seven (AOR = 6.80, 95% CI: 4.36-10.59, p = .0001) times more willing to provide CPBVS when compared with their counterparts. Implementing CPBVS in Ethiopia requires overcoming barriers and providing professional development opportunities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Solome Tadele
- School of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Bezawit Negash Demissie
- School of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Melaku Tileku Tamiru
- School of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Tamrat Assefa Tadesse
- School of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Baek Y, Park SK, Lee YH, Son KH, Na HJ, Choi HG, Kwon YG, Lee EK. Comparison of Perceived Importance and Performance of Community Pharmacists' Role in South Korea During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic. Disaster Med Public Health Prep 2023; 17:e569. [PMID: 38044034 DOI: 10.1017/dmp.2023.221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to identify the roles of community pharmacists (CPs) during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the differences in their role performance compared with their perceived importance, and limiting factors. METHODS A cross-sectional online survey of CPs was conducted. The CPs self-measured the importance and performance of each role during the pandemic using a 5-point Likert scale. A paired t-test was used to compare each role's importance and performance scores. A logistic regression analysis of the roles with low performance scores, despite their level of importance, was conducted to determine the factors affecting performance. The limiting factors were also surveyed. RESULTS The 436 responses to the questionnaire were analyzed. The performance scores were significantly lower than the perceived importance scores for 15 of the 17 roles. The source and update frequency of COVID-19 information and participation in outreach pharmaceutical services were associated with low performance scores. Insufficient economic compensation, the lack of communication channels, and legal limitations were the limiting factors in performing the CPs' roles. CONCLUSIONS The participation in outreach pharmaceutical services, economic compensation, and communication channel should be improved to motivate the CPs in performing their roles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youngsuk Baek
- School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
| | - Sun-Kyeong Park
- College of Pharmacy, The Catholic University of Korea, Bucheon, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
| | - Yong Hwa Lee
- School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
| | - Kyung-Hwa Son
- School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
| | - Hye-Jung Na
- School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
| | - Hyun-Gyu Choi
- School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
| | - Young-Gyu Kwon
- College of Pharmacy, The Catholic University of Korea, Bucheon, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
| | - Eui-Kyung Lee
- School of Pharmacy, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
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11
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Warr H, Gandhi A, Hussain S, Greenwood D. Community pharmacy services during the COVID-19 pandemic: Insights from providers and policy makers. EXPLORATORY RESEARCH IN CLINICAL AND SOCIAL PHARMACY 2023; 12:100344. [PMID: 37860224 PMCID: PMC10582732 DOI: 10.1016/j.rcsop.2023.100344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Revised: 10/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Readily accessible to the public, community pharmacies (CPs) were placed under increased pressure during the COVID-19 pandemic. In England, dispensing volume increased by 25% between February and March 2020. This followed a decade of stagnant government funding, which has been attributed to CP closures. If another pandemic emerged, the reduced number of CPs may face increased pressures. Objective To explore CP service provision in England throughout the COVID-19 pandemic from the perspectives of providers and policy makers, including what can be learned in preparation for any future pandemic. Methods CP providers (n = 10) and policy makers (n = 6) were interviewed via telephone between June and September 2021. Interviews were transcribed and then analysed thematically using NVivo. Results Pandemic specific pressures were identified, as well as long-term issues which preceded the pandemic. Increased workload was recognised by both providers and policy makers due to changes in prescribing habits and was exacerbated by staff shortages. CP staff safety was a major concern, with limited personal protective equipment provided despite being open to the public. General Practitioner (GP) surgeries received more protective equipment than CP and still referred patients to pharmacy e.g., for a blood pressure check. Conclusions The pandemic re-confirmed CPs role of providing accessible healthcare, particularly medicines provision, but also highlighted the demand for in-person clinical services. Improved communication channels between CP and GP surgeries are required, as is pandemic prescribing guidance to ensure appropriate prescribing to safeguard the medicines supply chain. To ensure the health of all providers is fairly protected, activities which require in-person contact or can be undertaken remotely by CP, GP surgeries and other providers should be reviewed. For pandemic preparation, legislative changes are required which empower pharmacy to fully contribute to patient care. A review of pharmacy funding and staffing is also needed to ensure services are sustainable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harriet Warr
- School of Medicine, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, CM1 1SQ, United Kingdom
| | - Ankesh Gandhi
- School of Medicine, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, CM1 1SQ, United Kingdom
| | - Syed Hussain
- School of Medicine, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, CM1 1SQ, United Kingdom
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12
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Aubert BA, Barker JR, Beaton C, Gonzalez PA, Ghalambor-Dezfuli H, O'Donnell D, Sears K, Yu B. Investigating the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the occurrence of medication incidents in Canadian community pharmacies. EXPLORATORY RESEARCH IN CLINICAL AND SOCIAL PHARMACY 2023; 12:100379. [PMID: 38145238 PMCID: PMC10746502 DOI: 10.1016/j.rcsop.2023.100379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 11/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023] Open
Abstract
As the COVID-19 pandemic unfolded, community pharmacies adapted rapidly to broaden and adjust the services they were providing to patients, while coping with severe pressure on supply chains and constrained social interactions. This study investigates whether these events had an impact on the medication incidents reported by pharmacists. Results indicate that Canadian pharmacies were able to sustain such stress while maintaining comparable safety levels. At the same time, it appears that some risk factors that were either ignored or not meaningful in the past started to be reported, suggesting that community pharmacists are now aware of a larger set of contributing factors that can lead to medication incidents, notably for medication incidents that can lead to harm.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Kim Sears
- School of Nursing, Queen's University, Canada
| | - Bo Yu
- Rowe School of Business, Dalhousie University, Canada
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13
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Phanudulkitti C, Puengrung S, Farris KB. Patient care and customer services during the COVID-19 pandemic at accredited pharmacies: Pharmacists and patients' perspectives. EXPLORATORY RESEARCH IN CLINICAL AND SOCIAL PHARMACY 2023; 12:100336. [PMID: 37810746 PMCID: PMC10556828 DOI: 10.1016/j.rcsop.2023.100336] [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: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Community pharmacists are now the most accessible healthcare professionals, providing advice, information, drugs, and devices across the globe during the COVID-19 pandemic. In Thailand, accredited community pharmacies meet higher standards than qualified community pharmacies, but little is known about the perspectives of accredited community pharmacists and patients in this emergency situation. This study aimed to assess pharmacists' and patients' perspectives on the challenges and opportunities they faced in providing or receiving patient care and services during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted in March-August 2022 in a province located in the eastern part of Thailand. Participants of the study were full-time pharmacists and patients at accredited community pharmacies. A convergent mixed methods design was used and involved quantitative data about the perspectives of participants measured by online self-administered surveys and qualitative open-ended questions. Results Twenty pharmacists and 416 patients provided complete responses. The meta-inferences were expansive in three standards including physical evidence, quality management, and good pharmacy practices/services for both groups of participants. For the social/community involvement standard, pharmacists' and patients' opinions (free-text responses) confirmed their perspective scores. Conclusions This study highlights community pharmacy's crucial role in maintaining essential healthcare services during the pandemic, with patients acknowledging and appreciating the dedication of community pharmacists. The mixed methods findings provide valuable insights into pharmacists' and patients' perspectives, facilitating a deeper understanding and exploration of the potential roles community pharmacists can play in a post-pandemic world, embracing new technologies for improved systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chamipa Phanudulkitti
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Burapha University, 169 Long Had Bangsaen Rd, Saen Suk, Chon Buri District, Chon Buri 20131, Thailand
| | - Surangkana Puengrung
- Independent Researcher, 502 Charunsanitwong 79, Bangphlat District, Bangkok 10700, Thailand
| | - Karen Bell Farris
- University of Michigan College of Pharmacy, 428 Church Street, 3569 NUB, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1065, United States of America
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Walliar T, Khan B, Newstead S, Al-Assadi G, Salter SM, Seubert L, Carlson SJ, Attwell K. "Fighting the pandemic!" Western Australian pharmacists' perspectives on COVID-19 vaccines: A qualitative study. Vaccine 2023; 41:7234-7243. [PMID: 37891049 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2023.10.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2021] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Western Australia, community pharmacists are authorized to administer a range of vaccines without a prescription. Since mid-July 2021, pharmacists can also administer Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines. Little is known about how pharmacists think and feel about giving and receiving COVID-19 vaccines and how they discuss it with patients. AIM This study aimed to explore Western Australian pharmacists' perceptions on being vaccinated with, administering, and communicating about COVID-19 vaccines. METHODS Semi structured interviews were conducted with 20 pharmacists from metropolitan and regional areas of Western Australia across a two-week period in July and early August 2021. Interview transcripts were coded using NVivo 20 and data was thematically analyzed using the framework method. RESULTS Most pharmacists (n = 16, 80 %) had received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine. Some expressed difficulty accessing the vaccine while two unvaccinated pharmacists were hesitant to receive it due to concerns about vaccine development. The majority of pharmacists spoke positively about administering the vaccines, discussing perceived facilitators such as designated vaccination days but also perceived barriers such as inadequate financial reimbursement compared to other healthcare providers. Many pharmacists obtained their information from Australian government sources and training modules. Pharmacists were only passively promoting COVID-19 vaccines, with conversations mostly initiated by patients. Most pharmacists specified they would highlight the common side effects when administering the vaccine and would provide patients with written information. CONCLUSION The majority of pharmacists were willing to administer and be vaccinated with COVID-19 vaccines. Since pharmacists play an important role in increasing vaccine uptake, governments should provide equitable reimbursement to pharmacists in line with other vaccinators such as General Practitioners. We welcome the recent resources produced by governments and pharmacy professional organizations to help pharmacists actively promote the vaccines since this work was undertaken.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taaiba Walliar
- Pharmacy Discipline, School of Allied Health, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Basil Khan
- Pharmacy Discipline, School of Allied Health, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Sophie Newstead
- Pharmacy Discipline, School of Allied Health, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Ghoufran Al-Assadi
- Pharmacy Discipline, School of Allied Health, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Sandra M Salter
- Pharmacy Discipline, School of Allied Health, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Liza Seubert
- Pharmacy Discipline, School of Allied Health, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Samantha J Carlson
- Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia; School of Social Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Katie Attwell
- Wesfarmers Centre of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases, Telethon Kids Institute, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia; School of Social Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.
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15
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Aarnes RV, Nilsen MK. Norwegian Community Pharmacists' Experiences with COVID-19 Vaccination-A Qualitative Interview Study. PHARMACY 2023; 11:181. [PMID: 37987391 PMCID: PMC10661255 DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy11060181] [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: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immunising the population became important during the COVID-19 pandemic. Community pharmacies in Norway collaborated with municipalities to offer a vaccination services to increase the vaccination rate. Only some pharmacies were allowed to offer this service in the pandemic's early phase. This study learns about pharmacists' experiences during this first period of COVID-19 vaccination services in community pharmacies, which is relevant for informing policy and organisational decision makers about the feasibility and acceptability of pharmacy vaccination. METHODS Individual interviews were conducted with 13 pharmacists in community pharmacies offering a COVID-19 vaccination service. Informants were recruited from the eleven pharmacies that first offered COVID-19 vaccinations. The key themes in the interview were COVID-19 vaccination, what the pharmacists think about the vaccination service, and how it is performed. The data were analysed using systematic text condensation. RESULTS Three main themes and eight subthemes were identified. The main themes were creative solutions, organising and making resources available, and professionally satisfying and an important mission. The interviewed pharmacists experienced the COVID-19 vaccination service as hectic but something important that they would prioritise. They experienced their efforts to be substantial in the pandemic's early phase. CONCLUSIONS Pharmacists in community pharmacies were a resource for increasing the vaccination rate during the COVID-19 pandemic. The pharmacies' easy accessibility and the pharmacists' ability to adjust their daily workflow for a new service should be considered when an expanded healthcare service is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ragnhild Vold Aarnes
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, 7491 Trondheim, Norway;
- Boots Pharmacy Surnadal, 6650 Surnadal, Norway
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James DH, Rapado R, Brown SL, Kember J, Hodson KL, Prior AL. Development of a Questionnaire to Measure Public Perceptions of the Role of Community Pharmacy in Public Health ( PubPharmQ). PHARMACY 2023; 11:141. [PMID: 37736913 PMCID: PMC10514790 DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy11050141] [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: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Community pharmacies are well placed to provide public-health interventions within primary care settings. This study aimed to establish the general public's perceptions of community pharmacy-based public-health services in the UK by designing a structured questionnaire to assess the barriers and facilitators to optimizing this role. METHODS A standardized questionnaire was developed informed by the literature, additional semi-structured interviews, and synthesis of key findings with the authors' previous research based on data generated from eight focus groups. The original 42-item questionnaire was distributed online from May to June 2021 via social media platforms to capture the views of non-regular pharmacy users. Following exploratory factor analysis, and Cronbach's alpha analysis, total Likert scale response scores were calculated. RESULTS Of the 306 responders, 76.8% were female with a mean age of 34.5 years (SD = 15.09). The most prevalent pharmacy use reported was 1-2 times a year (28.1%). Exploratory factor analysis revealed four scales: Expertise, Role in Public Health, Privacy, and Relationship (18 items) with acceptable internal consistency and good face and content validity. Awareness of well-established pharmacy services was high; however, responders demonstrated poor awareness of public-health-related services and low recognition of pharmacy expertise for this role. A lack of an established relationship with community pharmacies and privacy concerns were also perceived barriers. CONCLUSIONS Based on these findings, considerable effort is needed to increase public awareness and address these concerns if strategic plans to utilize community pharmacy in the delivery of public-health policy are to be successful. The PubPharmQ provides a novel, structured questionnaire to measure the public's perceptions of community pharmacy's role in public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Delyth H. James
- Department of Applied Psychology, Cardiff School of Sport & Health Sciences, Cardiff Metropolitan University, Llandaff Campus, Western Avenue, Cardiff CF5 2YB, Wales, UK; (R.R.); (S.L.B.); (A.-L.P.)
| | - Rose Rapado
- Department of Applied Psychology, Cardiff School of Sport & Health Sciences, Cardiff Metropolitan University, Llandaff Campus, Western Avenue, Cardiff CF5 2YB, Wales, UK; (R.R.); (S.L.B.); (A.-L.P.)
| | - Sarah L. Brown
- Department of Applied Psychology, Cardiff School of Sport & Health Sciences, Cardiff Metropolitan University, Llandaff Campus, Western Avenue, Cardiff CF5 2YB, Wales, UK; (R.R.); (S.L.B.); (A.-L.P.)
| | - Joanne Kember
- Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, Bangor LL57 2PW, Wales, UK;
| | - Karen L. Hodson
- School of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cardiff University, Redwood Building, King Edward VIIth Avenue, Cardiff CF103NB, Wales, UK;
| | - Amie-Louise Prior
- Department of Applied Psychology, Cardiff School of Sport & Health Sciences, Cardiff Metropolitan University, Llandaff Campus, Western Avenue, Cardiff CF5 2YB, Wales, UK; (R.R.); (S.L.B.); (A.-L.P.)
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17
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Advinha AM, Santos MC, Duarte-Ramos F, Perdigão M, Santos P, Oliveira-Martins S. Experience and Learning from the COVID-19 Pandemic in Portugal: Perceptions of Community Pharmacy Professionals. PORTUGUESE JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 41:122-131. [PMID: 38021255 PMCID: PMC10664277 DOI: 10.1159/000531446] [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: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background During the COVID-19 pandemic, community pharmacy (CP) professionals were among those who experienced the greatest risk of contracting SARS-CoV-2, which forced major adaptations. Objectives The objectives of the study were to describe the changes implemented in CP professionals during the pandemic, understand the perception of professionals about their experience, and explore changes to remain. Methods An observational and cross-sectional study was conducted via an online questionnaire (June-September 2020). The target population was CP professionals working in Portugal for >2 years and serving the public during the pandemic. Results Of a total of 353 participants, 84% were female (mean age of 37.6 years), and 81% were pharmacists (mean professional experience of 12.9 years). In the management and organizational dimensions, the most mentioned changes were adaptation to legislative changes (90%), fluctuations in the treasury (82%), and reduction of working hours (46%). Only 2% resorted to simplified layoff. In the back office, there was a need to adapt stock management (93%) and purchase personal protective equipment (99%). In the front office, there was a change in service policies - wicket or conditional opening (92%), routes of the arrival of user requests (91%), and home delivery (82%). Physical changes occurred in 100% of pharmacies. The most frequently implemented procedures were the use of protection systems and PPE, articulation with hospital pharmacies for dispensing in proximity (75%), and training in this area (55%). Regarding interpersonal climate, improvements in the connection between team members are evident: increase in mutual help (57%), solidarity (54%), and group cohesion (50%); in the relationship with clients, the majority indicated the replacement of the usual user by third parties (71%), and changes in communication channels (increase in use of technological means 68%). Conclusions Results illustrate the profound impact of the pandemic on CP professionals, both professionally and personally. It also highlights the importance of their roles in proximity and community support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Margarida Advinha
- CHRC – Comprehensive Health Research Centre, University of Évora, Evora, Portugal
- Department of Health and Medical Sciences, School of Health and Human Development, University of Évora, Evora, Portugal
- Pharmacovigilance Regional Unit of Central and North Alentejo, University of Évora, Evora, Portugal
| | - Margarida C. Santos
- Lisbon School of Health Technology, Polytechnic Institute of Lisbon, Lisboa, Portugal
- Research Center for Psychological Science, University of Lisbon, Alameda da Universidade, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Filipa Duarte-Ramos
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Lisboa, Portugal
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
- EPIUnit – Public Health Institute, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Margarida Perdigão
- Pharmacovigilance Regional Unit of Central and North Alentejo, University of Évora, Evora, Portugal
| | | | - Sofia Oliveira-Martins
- CHRC – Comprehensive Health Research Centre, University of Évora, Evora, Portugal
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
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Koonin LM, Roszak SE, McFeely KM. Building on Success Serving the Nation: Codifying Key Pharmacy Practice Authorities Beyond COVID-19. Health Secur 2023; 21:323-328. [PMID: 37162527 DOI: 10.1089/hs.2023.0085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Lisa M Koonin
- Lisa M. Koonin, DrPH, MN, MPH, is Founder and Principal, Health Preparedness Partners, Atlanta, GA
| | - Sara E Roszak
- Sara E. Roszak, DrPH, MPH, is Senior Vice President, Health and Wellness Strategy and Policy, National Association of Chain Drug Stores, Arlington, VA
| | - Kayla M McFeely
- Kayla M. McFeely, PharmD, is Senior Director, Pharmacy Care, Health and Wellness Programs, National Association of Chain Drug Stores, Arlington, VA
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19
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Katangwe-Chigamba T, Sokhi J, Family H, Al-Jabr H, Kirkdale CL, Twigg MJ. Theory-informed strategies to address factors anticipated to influence implementation and people's participation in community pharmacy-based diabetes prevention services. EXPLORATORY RESEARCH IN CLINICAL AND SOCIAL PHARMACY 2023; 10:100263. [PMID: 37122478 PMCID: PMC10141495 DOI: 10.1016/j.rcsop.2023.100263] [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: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Early identification of non-diabetic hyperglycaemia and implementation of diet and lifestyle changes can prevent type 2 diabetes. However, low participation in diabetes prevention services remains a problem in the UK. The community pharmacy, one of the most accessible healthcare settings in the UK, could provide one solution to improving participation. Aim To prioritize factors that could influence delivery of, and people-participation in, community pharmacy-based diabetes prevention services, and to identify strategies to facilitate successful implementation. Methods A mixed-methods, primary care-based study, comprising of two stages: 1- Prioritizing key influences of participation and delivery using a structured Nominal Group Technique with people with non-diabetic hyperglycemia, and other stakeholders; 2 - Identifying theory informed strategies to facilitate successful implementation using framework analysis. This involved mapping prioritized influences and qualitative data from the Nominal Group Technique onto the Behaviour Change Wheel theoretical framework. The study was conducted in February 2019, in Norfolk, UK and ethical approval obtained prior to research commencing. Results Fifteen participants (five people with non-diabetic hyperglycaemia, nine community pharmacy and general practice staff and one commissioner) participated. Participants prioritized "awareness" and "service integration" as key factors likely to influence participation and "the provision of information about health consequences e.g., leaflets" and "action planning e.g. general practice referral of patients to prevention services" as key strategies to facilitate participation. "Training", "staffing levels" and "workload" were amongst the key factors prioritized as most likely to influence delivery. Strategies identified to facilitate implementation included "instructions of how to perform the behaviour e.g. standard operating procedures" and "reward e.g. funding". Conclusions This research provides theory informed strategies needed to facilitate successful implementation of community pharmacy-based diabetes prevention services. The findings of this study should inform the design of future diabetes prevention services to ensure participation and sustainability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thando Katangwe-Chigamba
- Norwich Clinical Trials Unit, Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich, United Kingdom
- Corresponding author at: Norwich Clinical Trials Unit, University of East Anglia, Norwich NR4 7TJ, United Kingdom.
| | - Jeremy Sokhi
- School of Pharmacy, University of East Anglia, Norwich, United Kingdom
| | - Hannah Family
- Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Hiyam Al-Jabr
- Integrated Care Academy, University of Suffolk, Ipswich, United Kingdom
| | | | - Michael J. Twigg
- School of Pharmacy, University of East Anglia, Norwich, United Kingdom
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20
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Al-Tehewy M, Mohamed S, Ammar N. Patient safety culture among community pharmacists in Cairo. J Egypt Public Health Assoc 2023; 98:10. [PMID: 37188928 DOI: 10.1186/s42506-023-00136-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Measuring perception of patient safety culture among pharmacists working in community pharmacies is crucial to identify opportunities and areas that require improvement. The aim of this work is to measure patient safety culture among pharmacists working in community pharmacies in Cairo. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted among pharmacists working in community pharmacies in the center and south regions of Cairo. The Pharmacy Survey on Patient Safety Culture (PSOPSC), developed by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) was used to collect data. RESULTS The study included 210 community pharmacies with a 95% response rate. The mean age of pharmacists was 28 ± 5.4 years. The overall positive response percentage (PRP) ranged between 35 and 69% with a mean of 57.4%. The highest PRP was identified in the domains of "teamwork" (68.97%), "organizational learning-continuous improvement" (64.93%) and "patient counseling" (61.83%). The PRP was less than 60% in 6 out of the 11 composites. The lowest PRP was found in the domain of "staffing, work pressure, and pace", which scored 34.98%. CONCLUSION The study identified areas of patient safety culture that require improvement in community pharmacies, especially in allocating staff, appropriate working hours, and training community pharmacists on the importance and principles of patient safety. The overall mean PRP of patient safety culture among community pharmacists highlights the need to include patient safety as the strategic priority at the level of community pharmacies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahi Al-Tehewy
- Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | | | - Noura Ammar
- Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt.
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21
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Satti EM, Elhadi YAM, Ahmed KO, Ibrahim A, Alghamdi A, Alotaibi E, Yousif BA. The Psychological Antecedents to COVID-19 Vaccination among Community Pharmacists in Khartoum State, Sudan. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 59:817. [PMID: 37241049 PMCID: PMC10222532 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59050817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 04/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Little is known regarding the 5C psychological antecedents to COVID-19 vaccination among pharmacists in low- and middle-income countries. This study aimed to assess the acceptance of COVID-19 vaccination and its psychological antecedents among community pharmacists in Khartoum State, Sudan. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from July to September 2022. A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data about sociodemographic and health status characteristics, vaccine acceptance, and the 5C psychological antecedents to vaccination. Stepwise logistic regression analysis was conducted, and results were presented using odds ratios (ORs) and their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Results: A total of 382 community pharmacists participated in the current study, with a mean age of 30.4 ± 5.6 years. Nearly two-thirds of the participants (65.4%) were females, and the majority (74.9%) have received or intended to receive the COVID-19 vaccination. Vaccine acceptance was significantly associated with the following psychological antecedents to vaccination: confidence, complacency, constraints, and calculation (p < 0.001). Results of the logistic regression showed that confidence in vaccines [OR = 6.82 (95% CI = 3.14-14.80)], conspiracy beliefs [OR = 0.44 (95% CI = 0.23-0.85)], and constraints to vaccination [OR = 0.18 (95% CI = 0.06-0.56)] were the significant determinants of vaccine acceptance. Conclusion: The study revealed important predictors of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance that can be used to guide policymakers in designing target-oriented interventions that can improve the vaccine acceptance rate among community pharmacists in Sudan. These findings suggest that interventions to promote vaccine acceptance among pharmacists should focus on building confidence in vaccines and providing accurate information about the safety and efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccine, and reducing constraints to vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Einass M. Satti
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Khartoum, Khartoum 11111, Sudan;
| | | | - Kannan O. Ahmed
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Gezira, Wad Medani 21112, Sudan;
| | - Alnada Ibrahim
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, P.O. Box 84428, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia; (A.A.); (E.A.)
| | - Ahlam Alghamdi
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, P.O. Box 84428, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia; (A.A.); (E.A.)
| | - Eman Alotaibi
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, P.O. Box 84428, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia; (A.A.); (E.A.)
| | - Bashir A. Yousif
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Khartoum, Khartoum 11111, Sudan
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22
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Alrasheedy AA, Aldawsari AH, Alqasir MI, Alsawyan OA, Alalwan OA, Alwaker SA, Almutairi MS, Godman B. Knowledge of Community Pharmacists in Saudi Arabia Regarding Human Monkeypox, Its Management, Prevention, and Vaccination: Findings and Implications. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:vaccines11040878. [PMID: 37112790 PMCID: PMC10143221 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11040878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Many cases of monkeypox have recently been reported in countries where this disease is not endemic, raising a global health concern. Consequently, healthcare professionals (HCPs), including pharmacists, need to be aware of the disease, its prevention, including the role of vaccines, and its management to reduce transmission. A cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study was conducted among conveniently sampled community pharmacists in the Qassim region of Saudi Arabia. A total of 189 community pharmacists participated in the study, giving a response rate of 72.97%. From these, 86.77% were male, 51.32% were ≤30 years old, 36.51% were aged between 31-40 years, and 43.39% had 1-5 years of experience as community pharmacists. Their overall knowledge was 17.72 ± 5.56 out of a maximum of 28. The overall rate of correct answers for the knowledge statements was 63.29%, with 52.4% answering ≥50-<75% of the knowledge questions correctly and 31.2% answering ≥75% of the questions correctly. The knowledge subdomain related to diagnosis and clinical characteristics recorded the highest score, with the subdomain relating to causative pathogens and epidemiology recording a lower score. Overall, community pharmacists had moderate knowledge of monkeypox and its clinical management, prevention, and the role of vaccines, which is a concern for the future. Consequently, tailored, flexible, and timely educational interventions are needed to ensure that HCPs, including community pharmacists, are fully equipped with the latest evidence-based knowledge regarding this viral disease to reduce transmission and improve care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alian A Alrasheedy
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, Qassim 51452, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulrahman H Aldawsari
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, Qassim 51452, Saudi Arabia
| | - Munyib I Alqasir
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, Qassim 51452, Saudi Arabia
| | - Omar A Alsawyan
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, Qassim 51452, Saudi Arabia
| | - Osama A Alalwan
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, Qassim 51452, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saleh A Alwaker
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, Qassim 51452, Saudi Arabia
| | - Masaad S Almutairi
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, Qassim 51452, Saudi Arabia
| | - Brian Godman
- Department of Pharmacoepidemiology, Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow G4 0RE, UK
- Department of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Molotlegi Street, Garankuwa, Pretoria 0208, South Africa
- Centre of Medical and Bio-Allied Health Sciences Research, Ajman University, Ajman P.O. Box 346, United Arab Emirates
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Thomas D, Abdalla A, Hussein S, Joury J, Elshamy A, Khalifa S, Saleh Z. Pharmacists’ readiness and willingness to vaccinate the public in United Arab Emirates community pharmacies: A cross-sectional study. F1000Res 2023; 12:292. [DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.131153.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Pharmacist-administered vaccination is currently implemented in many countries worldwide. It has contributed to increased vaccine access and vaccine uptake. This observational cross-sectional study assessed community pharmacists’ willingness, and readiness to administer vaccines to the public in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and relate it to national and international policies on vaccination. Methods: This research was an online survey of 24-questions that was made available to community pharmacists via social media and WhatsApp. The survey was open for six weeks (from April to June 2022). Descriptive and inferential analysis was performed. Results: The questionnaire was completed by 374 of 575 (65%) respondents. More than half (64.2%) of the respondents agreed or strongly agreed that pharmacists should be able to vaccinate and 68.4% responded that they were willing to administer vaccines if local regulations allowed them to vaccinate. Most (81.8%) expressed willingness to complete training required to be able to administer vaccines in their pharmacies. Logistic regression showed that pharmacists defined as having high readiness were significantly more willing to undergo all essential training to start a vaccination service in their pharmacies than were pharmacists with poor readiness (OR 2.647; 95% CI: 1.518–4.615; p=0.001). High readiness was also significantly associated with agreement on safety of pharmacy-based vaccination (p=0.027). Conclusions: The majority of community pharmacists surveyed showed readiness to commence pharmacy-based vaccination services. Those with high readiness characteristics are amenable to receiving essential training and consider that vaccination in the community pharmacy setting would be safe.
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DiPietro Mager N, Bright D. Advancing Public Health through Community Pharmacy Practice. PHARMACY 2023; 11:pharmacy11020056. [PMID: 36961034 PMCID: PMC10037598 DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy11020056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The overarching goal of public health is to advance the health of individuals, communities, and populations [...].
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie DiPietro Mager
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Raabe College of Pharmacy, Ohio Northern University, Ada, OH 45810, USA
| | - David Bright
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ferris State University College of Pharmacy, Big Rapids, MI 49307, USA
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Woodhams L, Chalmers L, Hillis GS, Sim TF. Developing community pharmacists' role in the management of type 2 diabetes and related microvascular complications: a nationwide survey in Australia. PeerJ 2023; 11:e14849. [PMID: 36811008 PMCID: PMC9939021 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.14849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Community pharmacists have regular interactions with people living with type 2 diabetes to supply medications, and have a potential role in supporting other primary care professionals in the screening, management, monitoring and facilitation of timely referral of microvascular complications. This study aimed to investigate the contemporary and future roles of community pharmacists in diabetes-related microvascular complication management. Methods This study involved an online Australian nation-wide survey of pharmacists administered via Qualtrics® and distributed through social media platforms, state and national pharmacy organisations, and via major banner groups. Descriptive analyses were undertaken using SPSS. Results Among 77 valid responses, 72% of pharmacists already provided blood pressure and blood glucose monitoring services for the management of type 2 diabetes. Only 14% reported providing specific microvascular complication services. Over 80% identified a need for a comprehensive microvascular complication monitoring and referral service, and agreed it is feasible and within the scope of practice of a pharmacist. Almost all respondents agreed that they would implement and provide a monitoring and referral service if provided with appropriate training and resources. Potential barriers to service implementation were competing demands and lack of remuneration and awareness among consumers and health professionals. Conclusions Type 2 diabetes services in Australian community pharmacies do not currently focus on microvascular complication management. There appears to be strong support for implementing a novel screening, monitoring and referral service via community pharmacy to facilitate timely access to care. Successful implementation would require additional pharmacist training, and identification of efficient pathways for service integration and remuneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise Woodhams
- Curtin Medical School, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Leanne Chalmers
- Curtin Medical School, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Graham S. Hillis
- Medical School, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia,Department of Cardiology, Royal Perth Hospital, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Tin Fei Sim
- Curtin Medical School, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
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Gregory PA, Gill M, Datta D, Austin Z. A typology of vaccine hesitancies: Results from a study of community pharmacists administering COVID-19 vaccinations during the pandemic. Res Social Adm Pharm 2023; 19:332-342. [PMID: 36266175 PMCID: PMC9547396 DOI: 10.1016/j.sapharm.2022.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Pharmacists were integral to the vaccine administration process during the first two years of the COVID-19 pandemic. As such, they encountered a variety of different forms of vaccine resistance. This qualitative study explored 33 community pharmacists (from varying geographical and practice types) responses to vaccine resistance and tactics utilized to support vaccination amongst diverse community members. A typology of 8 different variants of vaccine hesitancy emerged, each with its own root cause and potential opportunities for intervention. Pharmacists in this study described techniques to support adherence to public health guidance based on their assessment of root causes for resistance demonstrated by patients. Importantly, all pharmacists in this study described feelings of anger towards truly anti-vax patients and unwillingness to actually engage or even try to address this group in their practice.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Manmohit Gill
- Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Canada
| | - Dhruv Datta
- Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Canada
| | - Zubin Austin
- Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy and the Institute for Health Policy, Management, and Evaluation – Temerty Faculty of Medicine at the University of Toronto, Canada,Corresponding author
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Grabenstein JD. Essential services: Quantifying the contributions of America's pharmacists in COVID-19 clinical interventions. J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) 2022; 62:1929-1945.e1. [PMID: 36202712 PMCID: PMC9387064 DOI: 10.1016/j.japh.2022.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND As the COVID-19 pandemic spread across the United States, America's pharmacists and their teammates expanded their clinical services to help their communities from every practice setting: community and ambulatory care, inpatient, long-term care, academia, public health, and many others. OBJECTIVES The objective of the study is to begin to quantify contributions of U.S. pharmacists in providing clinical interventions that mitigate and control the pandemic. These interventions span the gamut of diagnosis, prevention, treatment, and support, intervening patient by patient with vaccines, diagnostic tests, convalescent plasma, monoclonal antibodies, antiviral medications, and supportive therapies. METHODS Review of published literature, relevant web pages, and queries to national and state professional pharmacy associations and government agencies. RESULTS From February 2020 through September 2022, pharmacists and their teammates conducted >42 million COVID-19 tests, provided >270 million vaccinations (including 8.1 million COVID-19 vaccinations for long-term care residents) within community pharmacy programs alone, and provided >50 million influenza and other vaccinations per year. Pharmacists plausibly accounted for >50% of COVID-19 vaccinations in the United States. Pharmacists prescribed, dispensed, and administered an uncounted number of antibody products and antiviral medications, including care for 5.4 million inpatients and innumerable outpatients. Using conservative estimates, pandemic interventions by pharmacists and teammates averted >1 million deaths, >8 million hospitalizations, and $450 billion in health care costs. CONCLUSIONS Pharmacists and their teammates contributed to America's health and recovery during the COVID-19 pandemic by providing >350 million clinical interventions to >150 million people in the form of testing, parenteral antibodies, vaccinations, antiviral therapies, and inpatient care. The number of lives touched and people cared for by pharmacists continues to rise.
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Community Pharmacists' Beliefs about Suboptimal Practice during the Times of COVID-19. PHARMACY 2022; 10:pharmacy10060140. [PMID: 36412816 PMCID: PMC9680468 DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy10060140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2022] [Revised: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Community pharmacies are high-performance workplaces; if the environment is not conducive to safe practice, mistakes can occur. There has been increasing demand for pharmacists during the COVID-19 pandemic as they have become integral to the response. Suboptimal practices in the work environment and with pharmacists and their teams can impact the safe delivery of services. New Zealand pharmacists' perceptions of the current work environment and beliefs around whether suboptimal practice have increased within the last five years and the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on their practices are unknown. Aim/Objectives: To assess what New Zealand pharmacists associate with suboptimal practice in their workplace and investigate the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on pharmacists and their workplaces. Methods: We employed an anonymous online questionnaire derived from a human factors framework utilised in the aviation industry to explore the potential environment, team and organisational factors as the determinants of suboptimal work practices. The software, hardware, environment and liveware (S.H.E.L.L) model was adapted to create questions classifying the risk factors to potentially identify aspects of work systems that are vulnerable and may provide risks to optimal practice. Additional perceptions around the effect of COVID-19 on their workplace and roles as pharmacists were explored. Participants were community pharmacists working in New Zealand contacted via a mailing list of the responsible authority for the profession. Findings: We received responses from 260 participants. Most participants indicated that suboptimal practice had increased in the last 5 years (79.8%). The majority of participants indicated that COVID-19 had impacted their workplaces (96%) and their roles as pharmacists (92.1%). Participants perceived that suboptimal practice was associated with a lack of leadership and appropriate management; poor access to resourcing, such as adequate staff and narrow time constraints for work tasks; a lack of procedures; competition; and stress. A lack of experience, professionalism and poor communication between staff, patients and external agencies were also issues. COVID-19 has affected pharmacists personally and their work environments. Further study in this area is required. Conclusions: We have identified that pharmacists across all sectors of New Zealand agreed that suboptimal practices had increased in the last 5 years. A human factors S.H.E.L.L framework can be used to classify themes to understand the increases in suboptimal practice and the role of COVID-19 on pharmacist practice. Many of these themes build on the growing body of the international literature around the effect of the pandemic on pharmacist practice. Areas for which there are less historical data to compare longitudinally include pharmacist wellbeing and the impact of COVID-19.
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Patterson SM, Cadogan C, Barry HE, Bennett KE, Hughes C. Cross-sectional questionnaire study of the experiences of community pharmacists in Northern Ireland during the early phases of the COVID-19 pandemic: preparation, experience and response. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e064545. [PMID: 36137621 PMCID: PMC9511007 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-064545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To examine the views and experiences of community pharmacists in Northern Ireland (NI) regarding changes in community pharmacy practice/processes in preparation for, and response to, the COVID-19 pandemic. DESIGN Cross-sectional telephone-administered questionnaire. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS Geographically stratified representative sample of 130 community pharmacists in NI between March and May 2021. OUTCOME MEASURES Community pharmacists' responses to questions focusing on their preparation, experience and response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Descriptive analysis was conducted including frequencies and percentages. Free-text comments were summarised using thematic analysis. RESULTS One hundred and thirty pharmacists completed the questionnaire. Pharmacists responded comprehensively to implementing infection control measures, for example, management of social distancing in the shop (96.2%), making adjustments to premises, for example, barriers/screens (95.4%), while maintaining medicines supply (100.0%) and advice to patients (93.1%). Newly commissioned services were provided, for example, emergency supply service (93.1%), influenza vaccination for healthcare workers (77.7%) and volunteer deliveries to vulnerable people (54.6%). Pharmacists were least prepared for the increased workload and patients' challenging behaviour, but the majority (96.9%) reported that they felt better prepared during the second wave. Pharmacists agreed/strongly agreed that they would be able to re-establish normal services (87.7%), were willing to administer COVID-19 vaccines (80.7%) and provide COVID-19 testing (60.8%) in the future. CONCLUSIONS Community pharmacists remained accessible and maintained supply of essential medicines and advice to patients throughout the pandemic. Provision of modified and additional services such as vaccination reinforced the clinical and public health role of pharmacy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Cathal Cadogan
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | - Kathleen E Bennett
- Data Science Centre, School of Population Health, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Carmel Hughes
- School of Pharmacy, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
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Rose O, Erzkamp S, Schöbel W, Grajeda M, Köberlein–Neu J. COVID-19 vaccinations in German pharmacies: A survey on patient and provider satisfaction. Vaccine 2022; 40:5207-5212. [PMID: 35918204 PMCID: PMC9329147 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2022.07.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Background Methods Results Conclusions
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Maidment ID, Wong G, Duddy C, Upthegrove R, Oduola S, Robotham D, Higgs S, Ahern A, Birdi G. REalist Synthesis Of non-pharmacologicaL interVEntions for antipsychotic-induced weight gain (RESOLVE) in people living with severe mental illness (SMI). Syst Rev 2022; 11:42. [PMID: 35264212 PMCID: PMC8906356 DOI: 10.1186/s13643-022-01912-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND People with severe mental illnesses (SMI) such as schizophrenia die on average 15 to 20 years earlier than everyone else. Two thirds of these deaths are from preventable physical illnesses such as hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes, which are worsened by weight gain. Antipsychotics are associated with significant weight gain. In REalist Synthesis Of non-pharmacologicaL interVEntions (RESOLVE), a realist synthesis, combining primary and secondary data, will be used to understand and explain how, why, for whom, and in what contexts non-pharmacological interventions can help service users to manage antipsychotic-induced weight gain. METHODS A five-step approach will be used to develop guidance: 1. Developing the initial programme theory An initial (candidate) programme theory, which sets out how and why outcomes occur within an intervention, will be developed. 2. Developing the search The initial programme theory will be refined using academic and grey literature. The proposed initial sampling frame are as follows: Context: people living with SMI, taking antipsychotics, different types of SMI. INTERVENTION non-pharmacological interventions. MECHANISMS triggered by the intervention. Outcomes e.g. weight, metabolic adverse events, quality of life, adherence, burden, economic. Searching for relevant documents will continue until sufficient data is found to conclude that the refined programme theory is coherent and plausible. Lived experience (service users) and stakeholder (practitioners) groups will provide feedback. 3. Selection, appraisal and data extraction Documents will be screened against inclusion and exclusion criteria. The text extracted from these documents will be coded as contexts, mechanisms and their relationships to outcomes. 4. Primary data collection Realist interviews with up to 30 service users and informal carers, and 20 practitioners will gather data to support, refute or refine the programme theory. 5. Data analysis A realist logic of analysis will be used to develop and refine the programme theory from secondary and primary data. The analysis will aim to identify practical intervention strategies to change contexts so that key mechanisms are triggered to produce desired outcomes. Guidance will be produced based on these strategies. DISCUSSION This realist synthesis aims to develop guidance for service users and practitioners on the most appropriate interventional strategies to manage and limit antipsychotic weight gain. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION PROSPERO: CRD42021268697.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian D Maidment
- College of Health and Life Sciences, Aston University, Birmingham, B4 7ET, UK.
| | - Geoffrey Wong
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX2 6GG, UK
| | - Claire Duddy
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX2 6GG, UK
| | - Rachel Upthegrove
- School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Sheri Oduola
- School of Health Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, NR4 7TJ, UK
| | - Dan Robotham
- The McPin Foundation, 7-14 Great Dover St, London, SE1 4YR, UK
| | - Suzanne Higgs
- School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Amy Ahern
- MRC Epidemiology Unit, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, Cambridge, CB2 0QQ, UK
| | - Gurkiran Birdi
- College of Health and Life Sciences, Aston University, Birmingham, B4 7ET, UK
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Public Perception of Pharmacists in Poland. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19052515. [PMID: 35270206 PMCID: PMC8909892 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19052515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Background. Pharmacists constitute one of the largest groups of medical professionals and play a significant role in public health. Pharmaceutical care in community pharmacies is one of the key elements that impact the clinical outcomes of patients. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the public perception of pharmacists in Poland, as well as the knowledge of and willingness of Polish people to use pharmaceutical care services. Methods. This study was carried out in 2017 on 1435 people. The research tool was an anonymous online questionnaire. Results. Of the participants, 61% considered pharmacists to have a position of public trust, and 25% trusted pharmacists to a lesser extent than representatives of other medical professions. The participants stated that pharmacists were kind (74%) and helpful (69%). For 52% of the participants, pharmacists were fully competent to provide information on medications. Twenty-eight percent of the participants ask pharmacists for advice related to medicinal products. Poles’ knowledge on pharmaceutical care was low (44% of the respondents knew this notion). Sixty-six percent of the participants were willing to use pharmaceutical consultations (43% free of charge, and 23% for a nominal fee). Conclusions. Although the overall perception of patients towards pharmacists was positive in Poland, it is essential to educate patients on the possibilities of using pharmaceutical services, and to promote the role of pharmacists in healthcare systems.
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Patient Perceptions on Receiving Vaccination Services through Community Pharmacies. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19052538. [PMID: 35270231 PMCID: PMC8909877 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19052538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Revised: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
(1) Introduction: Pharmacists are medical professionals who play an active role in the protection of public health. Since 2021, pharmacists with an appropriate certification have been authorised to administer vaccines against COVID-19. (2) Objective: The objective of this study was to ascertain the perceptions of patients about receiving vaccinations through community pharmacies. (3) Material and methods: This study was conducted in 2021. The research tool was an anonymous questionnaire published on the websites of patient organisations. Ultimately, 1062 patients participated in this study. (4) Results: This study shows that most of the respondents find community pharmacies more accessible than outpatient clinics (85.3%). Sixty-one percent of the respondents stated that getting vaccinated at pharmacies would be less time consuming than at outpatient clinics. Nearly every third respondent (29.5%) declared that they would get vaccinated if they received such a recommendation from a pharmacist. Fifty-six percent of the respondents were of the opinion that the administration of vaccines by pharmacists would relieve the burden on medical staff and the healthcare system. (5) Conclusions: Polish patients participating in the study have a positive attitude towards the implementation of vaccination services in community pharmacies as an effective way of combating infectious diseases.
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Maidment I, Wong G, Duddy C, Upthegrove R, Oduola S, Allen K, Jacklin S, Howe J, MacPhee M. Medication optimisation in severe mental illness (MEDIATE): protocol for a realist review. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e058524. [PMID: 35074825 PMCID: PMC8788310 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-058524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Severe mental illness (SMI) is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. People living with SMI often receive complex medication regimens. Optimising these regimens can be challenging. Non-adherence is common and addressing it requires a collaborative approach to decision making. MEDIATE uses a realist approach with extensive engagement with experts-by-experience to make sense of the complexities and identify potential solutions.Realist research is used to unpack and explain complexity using programme theory/theories that contain causal explanations of outcomes, expressed as context-mechanism-outcome-configurations. The programme theory/theories will enable MEDIATE to address its aim of understanding what works, for whom, in what circumstances, to optimise medication use with people living with SMI. METHOD AND ANALYSIS MEDIATE will be conducted over six stages. In stage 1, we will collaborate with our service user/family carer lived experience group (LEG) and practitioner stakeholder group (SG), to determine the focus. In stage 2, we will develop initial programme theories for what needs to be done, by whom, how and why, and in what contexts to optimise medication use. In stage 3, we will develop and run searches to identify secondary data to refine our initial programme theories.Stage 4 involves selection and appraisal: documents will be screened by title, abstract/keywords and full text against inclusion and exclusion criteria. In stage 5, relevant data will extracted, recorded and coded. Data will be analysed using a realist logic with input from the LEG and SG. Finally, in stage 6, refined programme theories will be developed, identifying causal explanations for key outcomes and the strategies required to change contexts to trigger the key mechanisms that produce these outcomes. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Primary data will not be collected, and therefore, ethical approval is not required. MEDIATE will be disseminated via publications, conferences and form the basis for future grant applications. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42021280980.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian Maidment
- College of Health and Life Sciences, Aston University, Birmingham, UK
| | - Geoff Wong
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, Oxford University, Oxford, UK
| | - Claire Duddy
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, Oxford University, Oxford, UK
| | - Rachel Upthegrove
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Psychology and College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Sherifat Oduola
- Health Service Population Research, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| | - Katherine Allen
- Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Simon Jacklin
- School of Pharmacy and Bioengineering, Keele University, Keele, UK
| | - Jo Howe
- College of Health and Life Sciences, Aston University, Birmingham, UK
| | - Maura MacPhee
- School of Nursing, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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Costa S, Romão M, Mendes M, Horta MR, Rodrigues AT, Carneiro AV, Martins AP, Mallarini E, Naci H, Babar ZUD. Pharmacy interventions on COVID-19 in Europe: Mapping current practices and a scoping review. Res Social Adm Pharm 2021; 18:3338-3349. [PMID: 34924315 PMCID: PMC8670105 DOI: 10.1016/j.sapharm.2021.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Revised: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 12/11/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Background The COVID-19 pandemic has put community pharmacists at the frontline of prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery efforts. Pharmacies had to reorganize and implement several different interventions and measures within a very short time frame. Objectives 1) To map the current reported practice and trends and to review the literature on pharmacy-based interventions on COVID-19 provided in Europe; 2) To identify knowledge gaps and future avenues for pharmacy research, policy, and practice in response to public health emergencies. Methods We used a mixed methods approach combining country mapping of current practices of pharmacy interventions on COVID-19 reported by pharmacy associations in Europe with a scoping review of published literature. Results We mapped current practices on 31 pharmacy interventions on COVID-19 in 32 countries in Europe. Almost all preventive measures to reduce health risks have been provided in most countries. Other frequent interventions reflected preparedness for stockpiling, increased demand for services and products, and important patient care interventions exceeding dispensing role. Expanded powers granted to pharmacies and legislation passed in view of COVID-19 enabled services that improve access to medicines and relevant products, patient screening and referral including point-of-care antigen testing, support to vulnerable patients, and COVID-19 vaccination. We identified 9 studies conducted in pharmacies in 7 countries in Europe. Most studies are cross-sectional and/or descriptive. Pharmacy associations played an important supporting role by developing and updating guidance and emergency plans to assist community pharmacists. Conclusions A wide array of pharmacy interventions on COVID-19 was implemented in several countries within a very short time frame. Research on pharmacy interventions on COVID-19 is still in its infancy but confirmed the wide array of interventions provided and expanded powers granted to pharmacies. These findings may provide a significant impact to improve pharmacy research, policy, and practice in response to future public health emergencies in Europe and globally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzete Costa
- Institute for Evidence-Based Health (ISBE), Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Lisboa, Edifício Reynaldo dos Santos, Piso 3, Av. Prof. Egas Moniz, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Mariana Romão
- Institute for Evidence-Based Health (ISBE), Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Lisboa, Edifício Reynaldo dos Santos, Piso 3, Av. Prof. Egas Moniz, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Centre for Health Evaluation & Research (CEFAR), Infosaúde, Associação Nacional das Farmácias (ANF), R. Marechal Saldanha, 1, 1249-069 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Maria Mendes
- Institute for Evidence-Based Health (ISBE), Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Lisboa, Edifício Reynaldo dos Santos, Piso 3, Av. Prof. Egas Moniz, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Centre for Medicines Information and Health Interventions (CEDIME), Infosaúde, Associação Nacional das Farmácias (ANF), R. Marechal Saldanha, 1, 1249-069 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Maria Rute Horta
- Institute for Evidence-Based Health (ISBE), Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Lisboa, Edifício Reynaldo dos Santos, Piso 3, Av. Prof. Egas Moniz, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Centre for Medicines Information and Health Interventions (CEDIME), Infosaúde, Associação Nacional das Farmácias (ANF), R. Marechal Saldanha, 1, 1249-069 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - António Teixeira Rodrigues
- Institute for Evidence-Based Health (ISBE), Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Lisboa, Edifício Reynaldo dos Santos, Piso 3, Av. Prof. Egas Moniz, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Centre for Health Evaluation & Research (CEFAR), Infosaúde, Associação Nacional das Farmácias (ANF), R. Marechal Saldanha, 1, 1249-069 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - António Vaz Carneiro
- Institute for Evidence-Based Health (ISBE), Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Lisboa, Edifício Reynaldo dos Santos, Piso 3, Av. Prof. Egas Moniz, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Institute for Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Egas Moniz, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Ana Paula Martins
- Institute for Evidence-Based Health (ISBE), Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Lisboa, Edifício Reynaldo dos Santos, Piso 3, Av. Prof. Egas Moniz, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal; Pharmacy, Pharmacology and Health Technologies, Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade de Lisboa, Avenida Professor Gama Pinto, 1649-003 Lisboa, Portugal.
| | - Erika Mallarini
- SDA Bocconi School of Management, Via Sarfati, 10, 20136, Milano, Italy.
| | - Huseyin Naci
- Department of Health Policy, London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), Houghton Street, London WC2A 2AE, UK.
| | - Zaheer-Ud-Din Babar
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Huddersfield, Queensgate, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, HD1 3DH, UK.
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Wubishet BL, Tesfaye WH, Khan MN, Thomas J, Tuffaha H, Comans TA, Scuffham P, Erku DA. Public hesitancy to COVID‐19 vaccine and the role of pharmacists in addressing the problem and improving uptake. JOURNAL OF PHARMACY PRACTICE AND RESEARCH 2021; 51:494-500. [PMID: 35464639 PMCID: PMC9015492 DOI: 10.1002/jppr.1784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Revised: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
COVID‐19 is one of the worst pandemics in recent human history, causing huge health, economic, and psychosocial damage. Since the pandemic hit, several unsubstantiated claims regarding exposure, transmission and management have been disseminated. Misinformation and associated public confusion now extend to the COVID‐19 vaccines, spanning from claims based on possible links between some vaccine types and rare blood clots, to baseless claims. As a result, the public’s trust in COVID‐19 vaccines has been eroded, fuelling an already troubling trend of vaccine hesitancy. As medication experts and the most accessible healthcare providers, pharmacists are well equipped with the required skills and knowledge to improve COVID‐19 vaccine uptake by taking roles that range from dispelling myths, to providing reliable evidence‐based information, through to vaccine administration. This paper discusses public hesitancy to COVID‐19 vaccines, major contributing factors, and the role pharmacists can play in reducing hesitancy and increasing vaccine uptake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Befikadu L. Wubishet
- Centre for Health Services Research The University of Queensland Brisbane Australia
| | | | - Md Nuruzzaman Khan
- Department of Population Science Jatiya Kabi Kazi Nazrul Islam University Mymensingh Bangladesh
| | - Jackson Thomas
- Pharmacy Faculty of Health University of Canberra Canberra Australia
| | - Haitham Tuffaha
- Centre for the Business and Economics of Health Faculty of Business, Economics and Law University of Queensland Brisbane Australia
- School of Pharmacy Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences University of Queensland Brisbane Australia
| | - Tracy A. Comans
- Centre for Health Services Research The University of Queensland Brisbane Australia
| | - Paul Scuffham
- Centre for Applied Health Economics Griffith University Nathan Australia
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland Griffith University Gold Coast Australia
| | - Daniel A. Erku
- Centre for Applied Health Economics Griffith University Nathan Australia
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland Griffith University Gold Coast Australia
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Expanded roles of community pharmacists in COVID-19: A scoping literature review. J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) 2021; 62:649-657. [PMID: 35120863 PMCID: PMC8704729 DOI: 10.1016/j.japh.2021.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2021] [Revised: 11/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Background Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has affected the world health care system adversely, but it has also brought out innovative roles for health care professionals to cater to growing health care needs. Community pharmacists provide community pharmacy services and can play a vital role in fighting the pandemic by taking on novel roles that complement their pre-existing roles. Objectives This study aimed to provide a scoping review of current and emerging literature about the novel roles adopted by community pharmacists during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods Online databases such as Google Scholar and PubMed were searched systematically using the keywords “COVID-19,” “pharmacist,” and “community.” Articles were selected based on availability of full text in English language, with time limit from December 1, 2019, to October 31, 2021; case reports, cross-sectional studies, literature reviews, qualitative studies, and systematic reviews were included, whereas commentary reviews and editorials were excluded from the search methodology. An independent review of the articles was conducted for inclusion based on relatability to study subject; those chosen were screened for references to find additional gray literature. Findings were arranged in themes, and the results were organized accordingly. Results Novel roles for community pharmacists were found in relation to maintenance of drug-supply chains, delivery of telepharmacy and telehealth services, provision of ambulatory pharmacy services, use of digital software to coordinate medication delivery for patients with chronic conditions, dispelling of misinformation, and roles in research and clinical trials. Roles in a post-COVID world regarding immunization of population and involvement in lifting lockdown strictures alongside other stakeholders were also explored. Conclusion Although COVID-19 has challenged the health care system, it has also provided an opportunity for development of novel and innovative roles that can ultimately have profound consequences for the health care system. Community pharmacists, despite facing multiple challenges in the community, should be facilitated to adapt with these new roles, which can be beneficial in achieving mass immunization and better health care in a post-COVID world.
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Derqui B, Filimonau V, Matute J. Assessing the scale of adoption of sustainability practices by community pharmacies in Spain in the time of COVID-19. SUSTAINABLE PRODUCTION AND CONSUMPTION 2021; 27:1626-1636. [PMID: 36118164 PMCID: PMC9464268 DOI: 10.1016/j.spc.2021.03.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2020] [Revised: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Community pharmacies play a critical societal role and are well placed to enable the progress of national health systems towards sustainability. Nevertheless, there is a dearth of research which has been set up to understand sustainability practices adopted by community pharmacies and evaluate the drivers behind their adoption. This study undertook an exploratory analysis of 95 community pharmacies in Spain, measured their engagement with sustainability practices and assessed these practices in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. The results demonstrated the room for improvement in the adoption of green procurement practices in pharmacies and in their engagement with the community. Moreover, the study showcased that, during the COVID-19 crisis, the pharmacies with the largest extent of adoption of sustainability practices implemented preventative measures against the pandemic in a more diverse number during the first weeks of the lockdown, compared to their less sustainable counterparts. This indicates that, to build resilience to future (health) crises, the implementation of sustainable practices in community pharmacies should be encouraged by both policy makers and pharmaceutical firms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Belén Derqui
- Department of Business Management, IQS School of Management, Universitat Ramon Llull
| | | | - Jorge Matute
- Department of Business Management, IQS School of Management, Universitat Ramon Llull
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