Abstract
BackgroundUtilising skill mix in general practice is proposed as a solution to the demand–supply issue. Pharmacists can play an important role in this context, leading to an increase in training and funding for independent prescriber roles. A role for pharmacists in general practice was funded, piloted, and evaluated by NHS England (NHSE) from 2015.AimTo answer the following question: what is the patient perspective of pharmacists in patient-facing roles in general practice in the UK?Design & settingFocus group interviews exploring patient perspectives on the pharmacist role in the UK.MethodThirty-four patients were interviewed in five focus group (January–December 2016). Data were iteratively analysed using the one sheet of paper technique.ResultsWhile the public were aware of the primary care crisis, they were less well informed about potential solutions. Data showed patients primarily sought access to a clinician over expressing a preference for any type of clinician. Low awareness was shown about the pharmacist role and there was initial confusion about it. Acceptability levels were high. It was found that pharmacists added value and provided an expert medication-focused service, which had a positive impact on medicines use. Patients reported benefit from longer appointments, feeling they were not rushed, and that all their conditions were being considered holistically. They trusted pharmacists as experts in medication and trust was consolidated over time. Regular coaching from a pharmacist could lead to improved patient self-monitoring and self-care.ConclusionPharmacists can add value to the general practice team and this is recognised by patients.
Highlights
Pressures on primary care in the UK are well documented[1,2]
We aim to answer the research question: what is the patient perspective of pharmacists in general practice in the UK? This research work was undertaken in the pilot phase of the scheme in 2016 and may provide a useful benchmark as the role progresses
Our study demonstrates a range of patient views and experiences of pharmacists in primary care
Summary
Pressures on primary care in the UK are well documented[1,2]. Many of the consultations in general practice (family practice), which average at six per year per person, are routine issues concerning medication[3]. Utilising a wide skill mix in general practice has long been proposed as a solution to the demand-supply issue. 9 A role for pharmacists in patient facing roles in general practice was funded, piloted and evaluated by National Health Service England (NHSE) from 2015. Our national NHSE commissioned evaluation report[10] examines the role and impact and our realist review[11] identifies some key questions to be addressed. We aim to answer the research question: what is the patient perspective of pharmacists in general practice in the UK? Utilising skill mix in general practice is proposed as a solution to the demand-supply issue. A role for Pharmacists in General Practice was funded, piloted and evaluated by NHSE from 2015
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