Are we at the crossroads or is it groundhog day?

No Thumbnail Available
File version
Author(s)
McMillan, Sara
Wheeler, Amanda
Kelly, Fiona
King, Michelle
Primary Supervisor
Other Supervisors
Editor(s)
Date
2015
Size
File type(s)
Location
License
Abstract

Background: A recent study explored the priorities of consumers with a range of chronic conditions and their carers, with respect to pharmacy services. To address these priorities, an exploration into the associated changes needed in community pharmacy was necessary.

Aim: To explore the barriers, solutions and strategies for success in providing extended or new services in Australian community pharmacies, from the perspective of community pharmacists.

Method: Community pharmacists were recruited from four regions in three Australian states. Nominal groups and exploratory survey questions were used at different time-points between 2013 and 2014. Common themes were identified from the data.

Results: Sixteen pharmacists in three nominal groups contributed to a discussion on barriers and solutions, 86 pharmacists responded to the survey (94.5% response rate). Barriers and solutions related to either the external or internal pharmacy environment, and confirmed what is already known. Common issues discussed included professional boundaries, access to consumer records, remuneration and staff capacity. Pharmacists emphasised the importance of training, standards and guidelines to facilitate implementation. Although not discussed as a solution, a 'whole of pharmacy' approach was emphasised as a strategy for service success.

Conclusion: The barriers and aligned solutions 'well-known' to the pharmacy profession continue to exist, begging the question: are pharmacists experiencing Groundhog Day? Pharmacists need to focus on what works; owners and managers should reflect on the 'whole of pharmacy approach' as advised by pharmacists with service success.

Journal Title

Australian Pharmacist

Conference Title
Book Title
Edition
Volume

Oct-15

Issue
Thesis Type
Degree Program
School
DOI
Patent number
Funder(s)
Grant identifier(s)
Rights Statement
Rights Statement

Self-archiving of the author-manuscript version is not yet supported by this journal. Please refer to the journal link for access to the definitive, published version or contact the author[s] for more information.

Item Access Status
Note
Access the data
Related item(s)
Subject

Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Practice

Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences

Persistent link to this record
Citation
Collections