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Simkins J, Holden MA, Babatunde O, White S, Nicholls E, Long A, Dziedzic K, Chudyk A, Todd A, Walker C, Stanford C, Cottrell E, Edwards J, Healey EL, Cork T, Mallen C, O'Brien N. Exploring the potential extended role of community pharmacy in the management of osteoarthritis: A multi-methods study with pharmacy staff and other healthcare professionals. Musculoskeletal Care 2024; 22:e1873. [PMID: 38453169 DOI: 10.1002/msc.1873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Revised: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Osteoarthritis is the commonest form of chronic joint pain, which patients often self-manage before seeking healthcare advice. Patients frequently seek advice from community pharmacies, and a recent policy has recommended integrating community pharmacies into long-term condition pathways. This study explored community pharmacy teams' (CPs) and other healthcare professionals' (HCPs) views on community pharmacies providing an extended role for osteoarthritis management, identifying potential barriers and facilitators to this. METHODS A multi-methods study comprising surveys of CPs and other HCPs, followed by qualitative interviews. Descriptive statistics were used in an exploratory analysis of the survey data. Qualitative data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis and the identified barriers and facilitators were mapped to the Theoretical Domains Framework. RESULT CPs and other HCPs in the surveys and interviews reported that an extended role for osteoarthritis management could include: a subjective assessment, explaining the joint problem and its treatment, medication management and support for self-care. There was less consensus on diagnosing the problem as OA and completing an objective assessment. A key facilitator was training to deliver the role, whilst barriers were high workload and lack of access to General Practitioner medical records. DISCUSSION Acceptable elements of an extended community pharmacy role for osteoarthritis centre around the provision of information, advice on medication and supported self-management. CONCLUSION CPs are well placed to contribute towards evidenced-based osteoarthritis management. Feasibility testing of delivering the extended role is needed and future implementation requires training for CPs and raising public awareness of the extended role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Simkins
- Keele University, Primary Care Centre Versus Arthritis, School of Medicine, Keele, Staffordshire, UK
| | - Melanie A Holden
- Keele University, Primary Care Centre Versus Arthritis, School of Medicine, Keele, Staffordshire, UK
| | - Opeyemi Babatunde
- Keele University, Primary Care Centre Versus Arthritis, School of Medicine, Keele, Staffordshire, UK
| | - Simon White
- Keele University, School of Pharmacy and Bioengineering, Keele, Staffordshire, UK
| | - Elaine Nicholls
- Keele University, Primary Care Centre Versus Arthritis, School of Medicine, Keele, Staffordshire, UK
- Keele Clinical Trials Unit, Keele University, Keele, Staffordshire, UK
| | - Angela Long
- Department of Psychology, Northumbria University, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, Tyne and Wear, UK
| | - Krysia Dziedzic
- Impact Accelerator Unit, Keele University, Keele, Staffordshire, UK
| | - Adrian Chudyk
- Impact Accelerator Unit, Keele University, Keele, Staffordshire, UK
| | - Adam Todd
- Newcastle University, School of Pharmacy, Newcastle Upon Tyne, Tyne and Wear, UK
| | - Christine Walker
- Impact Accelerator Unit, Keele University, Keele, Staffordshire, UK
| | - Colin Stanford
- NHS Shropshire Clinical Commissioning Group, Shropshire, UK
| | | | - John Edwards
- Wolstanton Medical Centre, Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffordshire, UK
| | - Emma L Healey
- Keele University, Primary Care Centre Versus Arthritis, School of Medicine, Keele, Staffordshire, UK
| | - Tania Cork
- Community Pharmacy Staffordshire & Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, UK
| | - Christian Mallen
- Keele University, Primary Care Centre Versus Arthritis, School of Medicine, Keele, Staffordshire, UK
| | - Nicola O'Brien
- Department of Psychology, Northumbria University, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, Tyne and Wear, UK
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Watson M, Whittlesea C, Tharmanathan P. Researchers’ experiences of pharmacy involvement: a UK cross-sectional survey. JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL HEALTH SERVICES RESEARCH 2022. [DOI: 10.1093/jphsr/rmac049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Objectives
We aimed to explore the experiences and opinions of researchers who have involved pharmacy professionals in research studies. Pharmacy teams are valued healthcare professionals, with a wide knowledge base and skill set. They have regular contact with service users who may be interested in research, placing them in a good position for collaboration with researchers.
Methods
Cross-sectional survey circulated to researchers in the UK; analysed using descriptive, quantitative methods.
Key findings
A total of 238 responses were received from researchers, mainly within hospitals and universities. Most had more than 10 years of experience (45%) and had worked on 2–10 studies involving pharmacies (54%), frequently requiring hospital services (74%). Two-thirds of researchers had worked on clinical trials of investigational medicinal products. Most researchers worked with pharmacy teams that all had previous research experience (78%) yet did not involve them in participant recruitment (85%). Pharmacy staff frequently managed or dispensed medication (43%), however also engaged with other research-related tasks. Their previous experience and keenness were desirable qualities for researchers. Many respondents had a positive experience of collaboration and acknowledged various advantages (e.g. developing training/knowledge) and disadvantages (e.g. staffing issues).
Conclusions
Researchers’ positive impression of working with the pharmacy sector bodes well for future collaborations. Many had experience with pharmacy, however, those more unfamiliar should consider the roles staff could perform; and pharmacy teams and professional bodies should advocate their involvement. For collaboration to prosper, we should promote the benefits of research engagement and consider how to overcome known challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Cate Whittlesea
- Research Department of Practice and Policy, UCL School of Pharmacy, University College London , London , UK
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3
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Jahan S, Mozumder ZM, Shill DK. Use of herbal medicines during pregnancy in a group of Bangladeshi women. Heliyon 2022; 8:e08854. [PMID: 35128116 PMCID: PMC8810368 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e08854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Revised: 12/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pregnancy-related illnesses are commonly treated by herbal medicines in our country as well as around the world. OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study was to find out how common herbal use is among Bangladeshi pregnant women, what factors influence it, and how it affects pregnancy outcomes. METHODS Random sampling was done among women who gave birth between July and September 2021 in the maternity ward of an NGO-based clinic and were requested to participate in the face-to-face questionnaire-based survey. RESULTS 275 women (71.80%) out of 383 used herbs during their pregnancy. Only 27.42% of women who used herbs informed their doctors, and 91.03% of users reported no side effects. Most users thought that herbs were safer than allopathic medications (71.8%). The ground behind the choosing herb was suggestion from family members or self-medication (34.73% and 31.83%, respectively). Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) (73.10%), lemon (Citrus limon L. Burm. F) (71.27%), black seed (Nigella sativa) (66.55%), mustard oil (Brassica Juncea Mane Kancor) (65.45%), and prune (Prunus domestica) (41.45%) were the most widely utilized herbs. The majority of women used herbs on a daily basis. There were statistically significant differences in several socio-demographic characteristics and pregnancy outcomes between herb users and non-users. CONCLUSIONS The usage of herbs throughout pregnancy is quite prevalent amid Bangladeshi womenfolk, according to this study. Herbs appear to be safe when used often during pregnancy. Furthermore, physicians or medical practitioners have to play a vital role in ensuring the safe usage of herbs among pregnant women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sadia Jahan
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Science, Comilla University, Bangladesh
| | | | - Diponkor Kumar Shill
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Science and Engineering, East West University, Bangladesh
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Alhusein N, Scott J, Neale J, Chater A, Family H. Community pharmacists' views on providing a reproductive health service to women receiving opioid substitution treatment: A qualitative study using the TDF and COM-B. EXPLORATORY RESEARCH IN CLINICAL AND SOCIAL PHARMACY 2021; 4:None. [PMID: 34870263 PMCID: PMC8626316 DOI: 10.1016/j.rcsop.2021.100071] [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: 07/06/2021] [Revised: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The absence of menstruation is common in women who use drugs. This can give a belief that conception is unlikely. When stabilised on Opioid Substitution Treatment (OST), fertility often returns, initially without realisation as ovulation precedes menstruation. This leaves women vulnerable to unplanned pregnancies. Community pharmacists (CPs) are frequently in contact with this patient group through the Supervised Consumption of OST service. This provides a timely opportunity to provide reproductive health (RH) advice. The aim of this study was to investigate pharmacists' views on providing a RH service to women receiving OST. Methods Twenty semi-structured interviews based on the Capability-Opportunity-Motivation to Behaviour (COM-B) model and the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) were conducted between 2016 and 2017. Data analysis involved deductive coding using the TDF domains. The TDF domains were mapped onto the elements of the COM-B and used in the second step to create the framework and chart the data. The third step involved re-reading and clustering the codes, and inductive themes were generated to explain the data in depth. Results Nine of the 14 TDF domains, mapped into five elements of the COM-B, were identified. Five inductive themes were generated: 1) The pharmacists' experience and knowledge of reproductive health (RH) needs of women receiving OST, 2) The pharmacists' approach to providing advice, 3) The pharmacists' perception of the relationship with women receiving OST, 4) Social influences, and 5) Environmental factors. Community pharmacists feared causing offense to women receiving OST and described requiring cues as to when the service was needed. Pharmacists' highlighted a power imbalance in the relationship with women receiving OST. This could influence how receptive this patient group would be to pharmacy RH interventions. Conclusions CPs' concerns of providing RH service could hinder a proactive service provision. Supporting good rapport and providing a structured consultation would increase the accessibility of such a service. Reproductive health advice is triggered by social or physical cues from women. Provision of this advice is subject to the reflective thinking of the provider. A power imbalance characterizes supervised opioid substitution treatment. Good rapport and a structured consultation were seen to increase the accessibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- N. Alhusein
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - J. Scott
- Department of Pharmacy & Pharmacology, University of Bath, Bath, UK
| | - J. Neale
- National Addiction Centre, King's College London, London, UK
- Centre for Social Research in Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - A. Chater
- Centre for Health, Wellbeing and Behaviour Change, University of Bedfordshire, Bedford, UK
- UCL School of Pharmacy, Centre for Behavioural Medicine, BMA House, Tavistock Square, London WC1H 9JP, UK
| | - H. Family
- Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- Department of Pharmacy & Pharmacology, University of Bath, Bath, UK
- Corresponding author at: Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.
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Odeh M, Alkhader E, McCloskey A, Aljabra R, Al-sharayri M, Al-Noimi F, Alarmooti M, Alzu’bi M. Postgraduate pharmacist development- an evaluation of Jordanian pharmacist experiences to inform and shape an evidence-based professional development policy. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0255026. [PMID: 34314444 PMCID: PMC8315534 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0255026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Building capacity for developing skills as leadership, teamwork, and continuous academic support has become essential for fulfilling a successful pharmacy career. This study aims to assess Jordanian pharmacists' views on professional development, namely: the continuous education infrastructure, strategies and programs for personal development, leadership skills, incentive schemes, drug information resources and digital services. As well as exploring options for better academic support delivered to pharmacists. To capture participant's views, an online validated and reliable survey was developed. Non-probability sampling design was used. Participants were qualified pharmacists working at Royal Medical Services (RMS) and Community Pharmacists (CP). Comparison and descriptive statistics were used to report the results. A total of 271 pharmacists participated, 144 from RMS (8% more than the needed sample) and 127 CP (7% more than the needed sample). There was a strong desire amongst both RMS and PC groups for continuous educational training particularly in the following areas, first: Advanced counselling and communication skills (means = 8.99±0.145, CI 95% = 3.70-4.28 and 9.37±0.096, CI 95% = 4.18-4.56). Second: Personal development skills (mean = 8.92±0.142, CI 95% = 3.64-4.20 and 9.02±0.145, CI 95% = 3.73-4.30). Third, Pharmaceutical health promotion (mean = 8.05±0.180, CI 95% = 2.70-3.41 and 8.57±0.159, CI 95% = 3.26-3.89). Only 19.4% and 18.1% of the RMS and CPs respectively reported the presence of a written policy for personal development and leadership in their workplace. There were few incentives for pharmacists to participate in research. Few pharmacists used the available drug information and toxicology centers. The professional and continuous personal development of pharmacists support an evolving healthcare system. This study emphasizes the need for a tailored and documented postgraduate educational strategy, personal development, and leadership skills training in Jordan. Implementing a well-defined scheme of incentives should be encouraged to engage pharmacists in continuous professional development programs and pharmaceutical research. Such strategy and training should enhance both professional and personal performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohanad Odeh
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Practice, Pharmacy Management and Pharmaceutical Care Innovation Centre, Pharmacy School, Hashemite University, Zarqa, Jordan
| | - Enas Alkhader
- Pharmacy School, Middle East University, Amman, Jordan
| | - Alice McCloskey
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, United Kingdom
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Yong FR, Hor SY, Bajorek BV. A participatory research approach in community pharmacy research: The case for video-reflexive ethnography. Res Social Adm Pharm 2021; 18:2157-2163. [PMID: 33903066 DOI: 10.1016/j.sapharm.2021.04.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2020] [Revised: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Video-reflexive ethnography (VRE) is a qualitative methodology that explores the complex nature of healthcare 'as it really is'. Its collaborative and reflexive process invites stakeholders (e.g. pharmacists and pharmacy support staff) to participate in analysing their everyday work practices as captured on video footage. Through close collaboration with practitioners and attention to their work contexts, VRE may be a useful methodology to engage a time-poor pharmacy workforce in research about themselves, encouraging more practitioner involvement in practice-based research. Aside from research, VRE has also been used effectively as an intervention to facilitate learning and change in healthcare settings, and could be effective in provoking change in otherwise resistant pharmacy environments. Much like traditional ethnographic approaches, VRE researchers have relied on being present 'in the field' to observe, record and make sense of practices with participants. The COVID-19 pandemic however, has introduced restrictions around travel and physical distancing, which has required researchers to contemplate the conduct of VRE 'at a distance', and to imagine new ways in which the methodological 'closeness' to stakeholders and their workplace contexts can be maintained when researchers cannot be on site. In this commentary, we outline the rationale for participatory methods, in the form of VRE, in pharmacy research. We describe the underlying principles of this innovative methodology, and offer examples of how VRE can be used in pharmacy research. Finally, we offer a reflexive account of how we have adapted the method for use in community pharmacy research, to adapt to physical distancing, without sacrificing its methodological principles. This paper offers not only a new methodology to examine the complexity of pharmacy work, but demonstrates also the responsiveness of VRE itself to complexity, and the potential breadth of future research applications in pharmacy both during and beyond the current pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faith R Yong
- Pharmacy Department, Graduate School of Health, University of Technology Sydney, 100 Broadway, Chippendale, Sydney, NSW, 2008, Australia.
| | - Su-Yin Hor
- Centre for Health Services Management, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Building 10, 15 Broadway, Ultimo, Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia.
| | - Beata V Bajorek
- Pharmacy Department, Graduate School of Health, University of Technology Sydney, 100 Broadway, Chippendale, Sydney, NSW, 2008, Australia.
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Watson M, van Dongen A, Hewitt C, Mandefield L, Stewart D, Watson J, McCambridge J. Optimising retention success: a research team's experience of following-up participants recruited to a pilot trial through community pharmacies in England. F1000Res 2021; 9:1042. [PMID: 33728044 PMCID: PMC7941093 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.25372.2] [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] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The CHAMP-1 (
Community pharmacy:
Highlighting
Alcohol use in
Medication a
Ppointments) pilot trial aimed to explore an intervention discussing alcohol during medication consultations with community pharmacists. It presented various challenges regarding patient retention, as participants were recruited by their pharmacist and followed-up remotely by a trained researcher, who they had not met, two months later. We discuss our actions and experiences of completing follow-up activities. Methods: Community pharmacists recruited patients aged 18 and over, attending a Medicine Use Review (MUR) or New Medicine Service (NMS) consultation, and drinking alcohol at least twice per week. Pharmacies were randomised to conduct their consultations as usual (control), or to incorporate the Medicines and Alcohol Consultation (MAC) intervention. All participants were followed-up by a researcher after two months to complete data collection via telephone or post. We employed standard follow-up strategies, including a plan to text participants with a reminder in advance of their follow-up. Results: Forty-seven of 51 participants (92%) completed the two month follow-up. Thirty-eight (81%) responses were provided by telephone and nine (19%) by post. Of the 38 follow-up calls completed by telephone, 17 (45%) participants were reached at first attempt; 16 (42%) at second attempt; and five (13%) at the third attempt. We observed a high percentage of data completion across telephone and postal collection methods. Participants were willing to discuss potentially sensitive issues, such as alcohol consumption, anxiety, and depression, with a researcher who was external to the pharmacy team. Conclusions: The results suggest that patients recruited to a trial by community pharmacists are willing to take part in data collection activities, and remote follow-up can be successfully conducted by researchers. The techniques employed to encourage high levels of retention should be investigated further in a larger study, alongside consideration of optimal strategies to collect data within community pharmacies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Watson
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Anne van Dongen
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Catherine Hewitt
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Laura Mandefield
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Duncan Stewart
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Judith Watson
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Jim McCambridge
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
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8
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Stewart D, Madden M, Van Dongen A, Watson M, Morris S, Whittlesea C, McCambridge J. Process study within a pilot cluster randomised trial in community pharmacy: An exploration of pharmacist readiness for research. Res Social Adm Pharm 2021; 17:1750-1757. [PMID: 33549496 DOI: 10.1016/j.sapharm.2021.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2020] [Revised: 01/04/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Community pharmacies have an increasingly prominent public health function. This includes addressing alcohol, but guidance on delivery of alcohol interventions in this setting is lacking. We have developed an intervention that integrates attention to alcohol within existing community pharmacy medicine review services. This paper examines the experiences of community pharmacists (CPs) in conducting a pilot trial of the intervention, including the acceptability of the trial patient recruitment procedures and the training and support provided by the research team. METHOD The pilot trial was conducted in 10 community pharmacies in Yorkshire, England. One CP from each pharmacy was recruited via a multi-stage process to assess motivation, commitment and capacity to participate. Each CP attended a research training day and received on-going research support to conduct the trial. Semi-structured audio-recorded face-to-face interviews (lasting 40-105 min) were conducted with all the CPs at the end of the trial. Data were also available from three direct observations conducted during trial support visits. Data were analysed thematically. RESULTS The CPs were supportive of research in community pharmacy but had little direct experiences of research themselves. They valued the training and support provided, which had quickly identified areas where CPs were deviating from the study recruitment protocol. In some instances, the boundaries between research and practice became blurred with CPs making changes to their usual routines and interactions with patients to accommodate the research. CONCLUSIONS The trial procedures were acceptable to CPs, in part because of the training and support provided. There are also identifiable areas where CPs' readiness for research could be enhanced to facilitate participation in future trials in this setting.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mary Madden
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, UK
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9
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Alameddine M, Bou-Karroum K, Kassas S, Hijazi MA. A profession in danger: Stakeholders' perspectives on supporting the pharmacy profession in Lebanon. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0242213. [PMID: 33196652 PMCID: PMC7668569 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0242213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Lebanon boosts one of the highest pharmacists to population ratios globally (20.3/10,000). Yet, workforce analysis elicited serious concerns with the distribution, practice environments and regulation of Lebanese pharmacists. Recent workforce data shows that the profession has been majorly destabilized with hundreds of pharmacists closing their pharmacies or losing their employment. Proper planning for the future of the pharmacy profession in Lebanon necessitates a deeper understanding of the current challenges and the necessary policy and practice recommendations. The aim of this study is to examine stakeholders’ perspectives on the current pharmacist workforce challenges and the necessary measures to support the profession. Methods The research team carried out a series of semi-structured interviews with twenty-one key stakeholders within the pharmacy profession in Lebanon. We categorized stakeholders according to their experience as policy makers, practitioners, academicians, and media experts. The interview guide included questions about workforce trends, labor market challenges and recommendations for improvement. Interviews were transcribed and analyzed thematically. Results Four major themes emerged from this study: the oversupply of pharmacists in Lebanon, the demand supply imbalance, poor regulation of the pharmacy practice, and the difficult practice environment. There was a consensus among interviewees that the oversupply of pharmacists is due to the poor workforce planning and weak regulatory framework, combined with the easy integration of foreign-trained pharmacists into the labor market. The lack of coordination between the educational and practice sectors is further widening the demand-supply gap. Interviewees further revealed that the regulatory policies on pharmacy practice were outdated and/or weakly enforced which increases the risk of unethical practices and erodes the image of pharmacists in the society. With respect to the practice environment, there is an ongoing struggle by Lebanese pharmacists to maintain profitability and exercise their full scope of practice. Conclusion The poor pharmacy workforce planning and regulation is significantly weakening the pharmacy profession in Lebanon. A concerted effort between the various stakeholders is necessary to enhance workforce planning, regulate supply, optimize the integration of pharmacists into work sectors of need, and improve the financial and professional wellbeing of pharmacists in Lebanon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamad Alameddine
- Department of Health Management and Policy, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Riad El Solh, Beirut, Lebanon
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai Health Care City, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Karen Bou-Karroum
- Department of Health Management and Policy, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Riad El Solh, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Sara Kassas
- Department of Health Management and Policy, Faculty of Health Sciences, American University of Beirut, Riad El Solh, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Mohamad Ali Hijazi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beirut Arab University, Beirut, Lebanon
- * E-mail:
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10
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Watson M, van Dongen A, Hewitt C, Mandefield L, Stewart D, Watson J, McCambridge J. Optimising retention success: a research team's experience of following-up participants recruited to a pilot trial through community pharmacies in England. F1000Res 2020; 9:1042. [PMID: 33728044 PMCID: PMC7941093 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.25372.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: The CHAMP-1 ( Community pharmacy: Highlighting Alcohol use in Medication a Ppointments) pilot trial aimed to explore an intervention discussing alcohol during medication consultations with community pharmacists. It presented various challenges regarding patient retention, as participants were recruited by their pharmacist and followed-up remotely by a trained researcher, who they had not met, two months later. We discuss our actions and experiences of completing follow-up activities. Methods: Community pharmacists recruited patients aged 18 and over, attending a Medicine Use Review (MUR) or New Medicine Service (NMS) consultation, and drinking alcohol at least twice per week. Pharmacies were randomised to conduct their consultations as usual (control), or to incorporate the Medicines and Alcohol Consultation (MAC) intervention. All participants were followed-up by a researcher after two months to complete data collection via telephone or post. We employed standard follow-up strategies, including a plan to text participants with a reminder in advance of their follow-up. Results: Forty-seven of 51 participants (92%) completed the two month follow-up. Thirty-eight (81%) responses were provided by telephone and nine (19%) by post. Of the 38 follow-up calls completed by telephone, 17 (45%) participants were reached at first attempt; 16 (42%) at second attempt; and five (13%) at the third attempt. We observed a high percentage of data completion across telephone and postal collection methods. Participants were willing to discuss potentially sensitive issues, such as alcohol consumption, anxiety, and depression, with a researcher who was external to the pharmacy team. Conclusions: The results suggest that patients recruited to a trial by community pharmacists are willing to take part in data collection activities, and remote follow-up can be successfully conducted by researchers. The techniques employed to encourage high levels of retention should be investigated further in a larger study, alongside consideration of optimal strategies to collect data within community pharmacies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Watson
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Anne van Dongen
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Catherine Hewitt
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Laura Mandefield
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Duncan Stewart
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Judith Watson
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Jim McCambridge
- Department of Health Sciences, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK
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11
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Macfarlane H, Maidment I. Recruiting people with severe mental illness through community pharmacies: real-world experiences from a UK study. BMC FAMILY PRACTICE 2020; 21:172. [PMID: 32819284 PMCID: PMC7441641 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-020-01243-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Proxy recruitment of patient participants through community pharmacies may be a valuable strategy to maximise participation. This paper focuses on the feasibility of such a recruitment strategy for research involving people who experience severe mental illness. METHODS Fifty-three community pharmacies, including 50 'Research Ready' pharmacies, were asked to recruit people with severe mental illness for participation in research. Pharmacists were asked to provide participant information to anyone presenting a prescription meeting specific criteria. RESULTS Thirteen recruitment sites (25%) (from 4 distinct organisations) were approved to recruit patient participants. Eighty-five percent (n = 11) failed to recruit any potential participants. CONCLUSIONS Proxy recruitment of people with severe mental illness through community pharmacies was challenging with challenges in both pharmacy- and participant-recruitment. Further investigation into supporting community pharmacists' engagement with recruiting patients with SMI as research participants is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Macfarlane
- School of Life and Health Sciences, Aston University, Birmingham, B4 7ET UK
- Pharmacy Department, Secure and Complex Care, Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust, Unit 1, B1, 50 Summer Hill Road, Birmingham, B1 3RB UK
| | - Ian Maidment
- School of Life and Health Sciences, Aston University, Birmingham, B4 7ET UK
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12
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Kavanagh ON, Moriarty F, Bradley C, O'Hagan J, Stack G, Kelly D. More than coffee - a World Café to explore enablers of pharmacy practice research. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHARMACY PRACTICE 2020; 28:512-521. [PMID: 32342625 DOI: 10.1111/ijpp.12627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2019] [Accepted: 03/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pharmacists are in demand now more than ever to provide high-quality expertise about the effectiveness, safety and use of medications. Amidst an increasingly complex and costly healthcare system, policy makers need robust evidence to justify public spending on pharmacy services. Research on the impact of existing and emerging pharmacy practices is required. OBJECTIVE To explore barriers and opportunities to enhance research among pharmacists in Ireland utilising a World Café methodology. METHODS A pharmacy research discussion day was held in November 2018, open to all pharmacists in Ireland. A World Café methodology was utilised as a mechanism to facilitate group discussions about pharmacy practice research. RESULTS Discussions with 63 attendees identified four themes and seventeen subthemes. The four themes were challenges undertaking research, research motivations, leadership and training. Subthemes included robust evidence, clinical, economic and societal outcomes, alignment with national and international health system priorities, need for incentives from professional training bodies, competitive business model and embed within schools of pharmacy. CONCLUSIONS The most commonly discussed barriers inhibiting research were workload, technology limitations and financial considerations. Organisational leadership to prioritise and coordinate research efforts, training to build research capacity, building on existing examples of excellence and initiation of bottom-up community-based research projects were identified in our study as opportunities to enhance pharmacist involvement in research and ultimately patient health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oisín N Kavanagh
- Solid State Pharmaceutical Centre (SSPC), The Science Foundation Ireland Research Centre for Pharmaceuticals, Department of Chemical Sciences, Bernal Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Frank Moriarty
- Health Research Board Centre for Primary Care Research, Department of General Practice, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Catriona Bradley
- Irish Institute of Pharmacy, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - James O'Hagan
- Irish Institute of Pharmacy, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Gary Stack
- Department of Nursing and Health Sciences, Faculty of Science and Health, Athlone Institute of Technology, Athlone, Ireland
| | - Dervla Kelly
- Graduate Entry Medical School, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland.,Health Research Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
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Stewart D, Cunningham S, Strath A, MacLure A, Gibson-Smith K, Rushworth GF, Dreischulte T, Nicolson C, Pfleger D, Tiernan D, MacLure K. A theoretically informed survey of the views and experiences of practicing pharmacists on research conduct, dissemination and translation. Res Social Adm Pharm 2019; 15:1298-1308. [DOI: 10.1016/j.sapharm.2018.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2018] [Revised: 12/12/2018] [Accepted: 12/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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14
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Shitu Z, Jatau AI, Mustapha M, Gulma KA, Ado B, Sha’aban A. Factors Associated With an Interest in Practice-Based Research Among Pharmacists in Nigeria. J Pharm Technol 2019; 35:98-104. [DOI: 10.1177/8755122519831384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Practice-based research (PBR) is employed in the pharmacy profession to improve the quality and efficiency of health care delivery. Although widely practiced in developed countries, it is rarely used in developing countries, including Nigeria. Objectives: To determine the factors associated with Nigerian pharmacists’ interest in PBR. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study utilizing an online survey. Pharmacists currently practicing in Nigeria were invited to participate. A hyperlink to the online questionnaire was shared with members of relevant professional bodies via Facebook, WhatsApp, and Twitter. Reminders were sent to facilitate a high response rate. Factors associated with pharmacists’ interest in PBR were determined using multiple logistic regression. Results: Two hundred and three completed responses were received from the survey. The majority, 94.6% (192), expressed an interest in PBR and believed that it would enhance their pharmacy practice and role in patient care. The multivariable analysis showed that pharmacists’ interest in publishing their research findings in peer-reviewed journals (odds ratio = 0.004, 95% confidence interval = 0.00-0.05, P < .001) and their knowledge of the professional relevance of research pertaining to their area of practice within the health care system (odds ratio = 0.02, 95% confidence interval = 0.00-0.47, P = .015) were found to be independent predictors of pharmacists’ interest in PBR. Conclusion: There is an interest in PBR among practicing pharmacists in Nigeria. The provision of evidence-based pharmaceutical services in Nigeria will be enhanced by interventions that encourage the conduct of research and publication of research findings, and by improving knowledge of the professional relevance of PBR in pharmacy practice areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zayyanu Shitu
- Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin, Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - AI Jatau
- University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | | | | | - Baraka Ado
- National Board for Technical Education Medical Centre, Kaduna, Nigeria
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15
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Zeidan RK, Hallit S, Zeenny RM, Salameh P. Lebanese community-based pharmacists' interest, practice, knowledge, and barriers towards pharmacy practice research: A cross-sectional study. Saudi Pharm J 2019; 27:550-557. [PMID: 31061624 PMCID: PMC6488827 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsps.2019.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2018] [Accepted: 02/04/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To assess the interest, knowledge, practice and barriers of Lebanese community-based pharmacists towards research, and to examine factors associated with interest. Methods A cross-sectional survey, conducted between January and May 2017, enrolled community pharmacists using a proportionate random sample of community pharmacies in the five districts of Lebanon, using the list of pharmacies provided by the Lebanese Order of Pharmacists. In the absence of validated questionnaires to answer our objectives, we created a questionnaire based on previous research. The questionnaire was modified based on the experiences and issues raised during focus groups with research active pharmacists and research oriented community pharmacists. Results A total of 399 pharmacists was enrolled. The results showed that 231 (72%) were conscious about the important role of research in the community pharmacy setting whereas only 5.6% considered it not important. Over two-thirds (68.5%) of the pharmacists declared being interested in participating in research. There was a statistical difference in the percentage of correct answers between auto-declared and corrected responses for all terms, with all p < 0.001.The most reported barrier was lack of time during hours of work (90.9%), followed by the lack of pharmacy staff (73.7%), lack of financial resources (68.9%), patient's lack of education and resistance to participation (64.8%), and lack of support (63.8%). Age (aOR = 0.92), years of experience (aOR = 1.06), and having been involved in research (aOR = 3.17) were associated with higher interest in research. Having studied in Lebanon (aOR = 3.63), having received previous research courses (aOR = 11.12) and being interested in research (aOR = 2.74) were associated with having participated in research projects during their professional experience. Conclusion Lebanese pharmacists have the good will to conduct and participate in research, but are lacking knowledge; this issue needs to be addressed vividly. Addressing the identified barriers could improve the research output of Lebanese community pharmacists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rouba Karen Zeidan
- Faculty of Public Health 2, Lebanese University, Fanar, Lebanon.,INSPECT-LB (Institut National de Santé Publique, d'Epidémiologie Clinique et de Toxocologie - Liban), Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Souheil Hallit
- INSPECT-LB (Institut National de Santé Publique, d'Epidémiologie Clinique et de Toxocologie - Liban), Beirut, Lebanon.,Faculty of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Holy Spirit University of Kaslik (USEK), Jounieh, Lebanon
| | - Rony M Zeenny
- Department of Pharmacy, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Pascale Salameh
- INSPECT-LB (Institut National de Santé Publique, d'Epidémiologie Clinique et de Toxocologie - Liban), Beirut, Lebanon.,Faculty of Pharmacy, Lebanese University, Hadath, Lebanon.,Faculty of Medicine, Lebanese University, Hadath, Lebanon
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16
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Is Research Experience Detrimental to a Clinical Pharmacist's Career? PHARMACY 2018; 6:pharmacy6040105. [PMID: 30261681 PMCID: PMC6306848 DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy6040105] [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: 09/02/2018] [Revised: 09/21/2018] [Accepted: 09/25/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
A recent article in the Canadian Journal of Hospital Pharmacy discussed pharmacists’ perception of clinical research. The article illustrated that pharmacists lack the time, resources, and skills to conduct research. In the current paper, two ex-pharmacists, who now work as physicians, commented on the prejudice towards pharmacy researchers. Pharmacy researchers face obstacles such as being mislabeled as “non-clinical” and lacking opportunities to be involved in high-impact publications. The current paper discussed ways to improve pharmacy research, including collaboration with well-established researchers, putting less emphasis on the “clinical” pharmacist title, and changing the pharmacy culture.
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Sarwar MR, Saqib A, Riaz T, Aziz H, Arafat M, Nouman H. Attitude, perception, willingness, motivation and barriers to practice-based research: A cross-sectional survey of hospital pharmacists in Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0203568. [PMID: 30192828 PMCID: PMC6128607 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0203568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2018] [Accepted: 07/26/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and objectives Practice-based research (PBR) is of pivotal importance for hospital pharmacists which not only up-grades the profession but also improves the patient care. This study aimed to evaluate the attitude, perception, willingness, motivation and barriers to PBR among hospital pharmacists in Pakistan. Methods A descriptive, cross sectional study design was employed. Data were collected between 1st December, 2017 and 1st March, 2018 from 130 hospital pharmacists employed in 41 hospitals of Lahore, Pakistan. A survey instrument comprising of six sections was designed to determine the attitude, perception, willingness, motivation and barriers to PBR. Data were analyzed by using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, version 21.0, Armonk, NY: IBM Corp.). The normality of the data was determined through Shapiro-Wilks and Kolmogorov-Smirnov tests. Independent Samples Mann-Whitney U Test and Independent Samples Kruskal-Wallis Test were carried out to test if there were differences among the characteristics of the hospital pharmacists. Logistic regression analysis was used to figure out the factors associated with attitude, perceptions, willingness and motivation towards PBR. A p-value <0.05 was used for statistical significance of differences. Results A total of 141 pharmacists were approached. Among them, 130 responded to the survey (response rate 92%). Out of a maximum score i.e., 5 (100%) the respondents obtained a median score of 4 (IQR = 0) for attitude, perception and motivation towards PBR; whereas, a median score of 4 (IQR = 1) was obtained for willingness thus demonstrating fair positive attitude, good perceptions, increased motivation and willingness towards PBR. The most common barrier limiting the pharmacists’ participation in PBR was lack of time (23.8%) followed by lack of incentives (16.2%) and lack of support (14.6%). Results of the logistic regression analysis revealed that hospital pharmacists practicing in the inpatient settings had 4.56 times more positive attitude towards PBR (OR = 4.56, 95%CI = 1.07─19.42, p-value = 0.040) as compared to those practicing in the outpatient settings. The male hospital pharmacists (OR = 8.86, 95%CI = 1.15–53.74, p-value = 0.017), those practicing in the outpatient (OR = 23.51, 95%CI = 2.04─271.53, p-value = 0.011) and inpatient settings had increased motivation towards PBR (OR = 12.24, 95%CI = 1.61─94.66, p-value = 0.016). Conclusion Despite the presence of several barriers, the respondents had fair positive attitude, good perceptions, increased motivation and willingness towards PBR which is a promising finding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Rehan Sarwar
- Akhtar Saeed College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
- Department of Pharmacy, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur, Punjab, Pakistan
- * E-mail:
| | - Anum Saqib
- Department of Pharmacy, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Tayyab Riaz
- Akhtar Saeed College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Haleema Aziz
- Akhtar Saeed College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Mosab Arafat
- College of Pharmacy, Al Ain University of Science and Technology, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Hamna Nouman
- Akhtar Saeed College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
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18
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Deshpande P, Mule A, Sharma M, Raghunath A. A survey of antibiotics dispensing pattern in a community pharmacy of Pune city. JOURNAL OF THE SCIENTIFIC SOCIETY 2018. [DOI: 10.4103/jss.jss_23_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
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