Australian General Practitioners' Views on Pharmacist Prescribing

Abstract

Aim: To explore Australian general practitioners' views on extending prescribing rights to pharmacists, the appropriateness of pharmacist prescribing models, and the influence of general practitioners' characteristics on their preference for a particular pharmacist prescribing model. Method: The study consisted of two parts. Part A was a scenario-based questionnaire using Likert-scale responses and Part B was a semi-structured interview. General practitioners were randomly recruited from two Sydney divisions of general practice. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and qualitative responses were thematically analysed. Results: Completed questionnaires were received from 22/ 150 general practitioners (response rate 15%), with 10 general practitioners providing additional comments. 10/12 (83%) general practitioners participated in the interviews. Repeat prescribing and prescribing by referral were the most favoured models; 53% of general practitioners rated them as appropriate or somewhat appropriate models of pharmacist prescribing. 6 major themes emerged: focus on safety issues, lack of awareness of pharmacist training and capabilities, division of professional/clinical responsibility, conflict in definition of prescribing versus treating, interference with the general practitioner-patient relationship and remuneration.

Using scenarios to test the appropriateness of pharmacist prescribing in asthma management

“…To date, much of the Australian research has focused on exploring the practice landscape to ascertain its readiness for pharmacist prescribing, including: exploring views of pharmacists19,20,21,22, general practitioners23, and clients15; identifying needs and preferences for training and skill development24; surveying pharmacists’ experiences of training opportunities25,26; and developing frameworks for the implementation of pharmacist prescribing 27…”

Exploring the potential for pharmacist prescribing in the management of hypertension in primary care: an Australian survey

“…HMRs) and/or who have been additionally trained to deliver targeted disease statement management services . There has been much concern from medical practitioners about the appropriateness of pharmacist prescribing within the community setting, expressing concern about the practicalities and ethics of prescribing within a retail environment . Indeed, pharmacists themselves have indicated that prescribing needs to occur within an appropriate context and a defined scope of practice (such as provided by accredited pharmacists), with the necessary experience and training to support this …”

The Case Against

“…Once we overcome the legislative challenges, we need to turn our attention to how pharmacists prescribing will operate practically. The dependant or delegated prescribing model appears to be the preferred approach internationally, offering a more controlled method of pharmacist prescriptions, but it is not without risks. This model relies on a close working partnership between two practitioners that is clearly defined by a partnership agreement.…”