Scope of Mix-method studies in Pharmacy Practice Research

Abstract

Conducting pharmacy practice research is particularly challenging owing to the varied approaches and methods available. While quantitative methodology has been traditionally endorsed as the more scientific method of research, there is a growing recognition for qualitative inquiry in the field of pharmacy practice research in the past few decades. Hence, the scope of this paper is to provide an overview on how to apply mixed methodology in pharmacy practice research and to discuss some of the benefits and challenges in employing mixed method. A review of the recent qualitative research done in developing countries was done. A data base search in PubMed® and an open Google® open search were done to identify the mix methods research done in pharmacy practice. Articles identified were included and their findings were described in the results section. It is seen that combining both qualitative and quantitative methodologies can provide a more complete analysis when exploring complex research questions related to pharmacy practice. Although quantitative and qualitative methods are different, one approach is not superior to the other; both have recognized strengths and weaknesses. Using mix methods create relevant and distinctive modes of enquiry in research and help the unification rather than the division of research patterns. Within this context, the field of pharmacy practice research is huge. Mix methods are meant to enrich research in pharmacy practice.