Affiliation:
1. Department of Life Sciences, University of Bath , Claverton Down, Bath BA2 7AY , United Kingdom
2. Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kings College London , Franklin-Wilkins Building, Stamford Street, London SE1 9NH , United Kingdom
3. Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde , 161 Cathedral Street, Glasgow G4 0RE , United Kingdom
Abstract
Abstract
Objectives
At the time of the survey, just over 2000 pharmacists were employed in UK general practice. Little is known about their influence on prescribing, and more specifically, the extent of their use of Audit and Feedback (A&F), an evidence-based method for behaviour change. This study aimed to explore pharmacists’ current influence on prescribing in UK general practice.
Methods
A cross-sectional, online survey was open to general practice pharmacists in England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales between 9 September 2021 and 31 October 2021. The survey comprised 36 items, informed by the literature, including multiple choice and free-text questions about pharmacist responsibilities, involvement in prescribing audits (including use of A&F), use of prescribing guidelines, beliefs about influence on prescribing, and access to training and support. Descriptive statistics and frequencies were generated, and parametric analyses were conducted.
Key findings
In total, 155 responses were received from pharmacists in diverse practice locations, with a wide range of practice pharmacist experience. The majority (80%, n = 121) conducted prescribing audits, but only 21% (n = 32) reported undertaking A&F. Most respondents (90%, n = 140) used guidelines to inform their work, and 75% (n = 116) would welcome training on influencing prescribing. Pharmacists using A&F were more likely to believe in their ability to influence prescribing and to acknowledge this activity as part of their role.
Conclusion
Despite substantial evidence of its effectiveness, A&F is under-used by practice pharmacists. An increased awareness and enablement of practice pharmacists in effective techniques might promote greater evidence-based prescribing in general practice.
Publisher
Oxford University Press (OUP)
Subject
Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health,Health Policy,Pharmaceutical Science,Pharmacy
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