The professional responsibilities of pharmacists with respect to natural health products: Focus group discussions with pharmacists and consumers

Abstract

Objective: Although natural health products (NHPs) are widely sold in pharmacies, the professional responsibilities of pharmacists with respect to these products have not been well defined. This study addressed the question: what are the pharmacist and consumer perspectives on the professional responsibilities of pharmacists with respect to NHPs? Method: Focus groups with practicing pharmacists and consumers were held in 4 different cities across Canada (Vancouver, Edmonton, Toronto, and Halifax) for a total of 16 focus groups. Current and potential professional responsibilities of pharmacists with respect to NHPs were discussed in each group. Verbatim transcripts of each group were assessed using qualitative content analysis. Results: Both pharmacists and consumers were supportive of pharmacists’ involvement with natural health products and the need for pharmacists to have more education on them. The management of interactions between pharmaceuticals and NHPs and the provision of counselling on NHPs were identified as the primary responsibilities for pharmacists. Participants perceived NHPs as being distinct from other over-the-counter products and voiced concerns about the safety, efficacy, and product quality of NHPs, which may pose a barrier for pharmacists in performing these roles. Conclusion: Pharmacists and consumers agree that pharmacists have a significant role to play in counselling patients about natural health products, especially about the potential for drugNHP interactions. However, in order for pharmacists to fulfill this role, additional education about NHPs is needed both in undergraduate and continuing education programs. Standards of practice for this role would also help pharmacists understand their professional responsibilities. I was inspired to undertake this study because I believe pharmacists have an opportunity to develop a unique and credible professional role for themselves as expert advisers on natural health products in order to reduce the risks associated with the use of these products. D. Kwan