Knowledge, Attitude, and Readiness of Pharmacists in Iraq toward Medication Therapy Management for Patients with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Abstract Background Medication Therapy Management (MTM) is a patient-centered, collaborative service that optimizes drug therapy and improves clinical outcomes, including quality of life. Pharmacists play a critical role in MTM service and are uniquely positioned to provide comprehensive medication management for patients with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Aim The aim of this study was to assess the knowledge, attitude, and readiness of Iraqi pharmacists regarding MTM service in general and medication management of ADHD patients. Method A cross-sectional study was conducted among 480 Iraqi pharmacists working in community pharmacies in Baghdad. Data were collected using a pre-validated 34-item self-administered questionnaire. Results Results showed that only 26.5% of pharmacists had good knowledge, 30.4% had good attitude, and 30.8% had high readiness regarding MTM service and ADHD medication management. Multivariate analyses revealed that a higher number of hours worked per week in the hospital was significantly associated with a lower likelihood of a high attitude, whereas experience with MTM, high knowledge, and high attitude were significantly associated with a higher likelihood of high readiness. Conclusion The findings of this study indicate that knowledge, attitudes, and readiness regarding MTM service and ADHD medication management are inadequate. Therefore, there is an urgent need for effective educational strategies to better prepare pharmacists for their potential role in the community, particularly for the provision of MTM service and ADHD care. In this way, pharmacists can better assist patients in managing their medications, improve clinical outcomes and ultimately increase the efficiency of the overall health care system.