Professional identity formation: The experience of regulated pharmacy technicians in Ontario

Abstract

Background: Despite being regulated and spoken about as professionals, there is little formal research examining professional identity formation among regulated pharmacy technicians. Methods: A semistructured interview protocol was generated, based on Holden et al.’s typology of professional identity formation (PIF). Regulated pharmacy technicians in Ontario with a minimum of 2 years’ experience working a minimum of 32 hours/week were recruited to participate. Interviews were transcribed, coded and analyzed based on professional identity formation. Results: A total of 15 regulated pharmacy technicians from southern Ontario participated in this study. Regardless of demographic background, most participants demonstrated identity splinting as the dominant form of professional identity formation. Issues related to social valuing of the role of the technician and environmental opportunities to develop and grow were highlighted as significant barriers. Interpretation: These findings suggest regulated pharmacy technicians have incomplete professional identities due in part to reasons linked to pharmacists and the pharmacy profession. The type of professional identity expressed by participants in this study may limit opportunities for full and optimal expression of their role. Conclusions: Further work is necessary to better understand the professional identity formation of regulated pharmacy technicians, to help support the evolution of this role. Can Pharm J (Ott) 2020;153:xx-xx.