Improvement in Pharmacist's Performance Facilitated by an Adapted Competency‐Based General Level Framework

Abstract

ABSTRACTBackgroundThe General Level Framework (GLF) is a tool for evaluating pharmacists' performance, providing tailored feedback and training, and guiding professional development.AimTo ascertain the changes in pharmacists' workplace performance over time using the GLF and to describe pharmacists' views on the baseline evaluation process.MethodThe UK GLF was mapped against Australian pharmacy competency standards and practice guidelines. 61 of the 92 competencies from the Queensland Health version of the GLF representing core professional activities of Australian pharmacists were analysed. Trained evaluators used the adapted GLF to observe pharmacists from 18 Queensland public hospitals in their workplace (baseline and repeat) and rate the frequency with which competencies were completed to a defined standard. The evaluators then provided pharmacists with tailored feedback, encouraged self‐problem solving, and identified and addressed their training needs. Pharmacists' views of the baseline evaluation process was assessed using a 7‐point rating scale.Results66 pharmacists from 18 Queensland hospitals underwent the evaluation. At baseline, pharmacists had a median of 3 (1 to 10) years hospital experience. A median of 14 (5 to 22) months lapsed between baseline and repeat observations. Of the 61 competencies analysed, 35 (57%) competencies showed a significant improvement from baseline to repeat observations (p = 0.05). Competencies that improved significantly from baseline included: aspects of medication history taking; medication management; identification, documentation and resolution of drug‐related problems; appraisal of therapeutic options; and communication with doctors and nurses. For 9 (15%) competencies, pharmacists were already performing at the maximum level (median score 4) at baseline and no change was recorded between observations. No competency demonstrated a decrease in performance between observations. When the mean scores with 95% confidence intervals for the clusters of competencies were compared over time all the mean scores except for discharge facilitation and medicines information/patient education/liaison showed a significant improvement. 52 pharmacists provided feedback on the baseline evaluation process and the majority found it a useful professional development tool. They considered the evaluation process fair and constructive but taxing.ConclusionThe GLF tool assisted with the identification of pharmacists' training needs, which are integral to their professional development.