Pharmacists' Perspectives on Self-Care and Minor Ailment Education in Primary Schools: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Abstract Background In the UK, community pharmacists significantly contribute to managing minor ailments and self-care, with government policies supporting this role. However, the potential of pharmacists to enhance health education among primary school children is underexplored. Objective This study investigates pharmacists' perspectives on providing self-care and minor ailments education in primary schools and identifies possible roles pharmacists could play in the future. Method Seventeen UK-based pharmacists and pharmacy support staff were interviewed using qualitative semi-structured techniques. The interviews were transcribed, coded, and thematically analysed using NVivo 12. Results Five themes emerged: the perceived gap in self-care and minor ailment knowledge among children and parents, perceived positive impact of education on self-care, current health knowledge sources of children and parents, barriers to health education, and the potential role of pharmacists in self-care education in schools. Pharmacists unanimously acknowledged a significant educational role for their profession, suggesting collaborative efforts with schools to deliver tailored health education programs. Discussion Pharmacy staff agree that there is a pressing need for education on self care and minor ailments management within primary schools, with pharmacists keen to play a central role in educational role. Participants advocated for a strategy that combines the expertise of school teachers with pharmacists to foster self-care from an early age. Conclusion Pharmacists recognize the value of integrating health education into primary school curricula. A collaborative approach with educational institutions could bridge the gap in self-care and minor ailments knowledge, empowering children and reducing unnecessary healthcare resource utilization.