Barriers to positive policy change that aims to increase access to medicines through reclassification: the case of oseltamivir in New Zealand

Abstract

Complexity in the factors that influenced pharmacist motivation to supply oseltamivir without prescription highlighted the potential for positive policy change to be hindered by multiple barriers. Greater understanding of such barriers is important for effective transition of medicines from prescription to non-prescription availability to achieve increased consumer access through reclassification. Concerns that pharmacists are influenced by commercial priorities when medicines are newly reclassified were not substantiated in this study.

Pharmacy-based management of influenza: lessons learned from research

“…Pharmacists have a history of successfully engaging in outpatient antimicrobial stewardship initiatives . Surveys of pharmacists regarding nonprescription oseltamivir demonstrate a sensitivity to the issue of resistance …”

“…One example is a pharmacy‐based model to manage patients with influenza. Such models have been explored in Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Norway and various jurisdictions within the United States (U.S) – during both seasonal influenza and during the 2009 H1N1 influenza pandemic. Three primary models of pharmacy‐based influenza management have been reported in the literature (Table ).…”

Oseltamivir for All: Should It Become an Over‐the‐Counter Medication for Influenza Treatment?

“…Neuraminidase inhibitors have been OTC in New Zealand since 2007 through a process where initially the influenza‐stricken individual must present to the pharmacist in person for evaluation . A subsequent policy change allowed for telephonic interview with a pharmacist . OTC sale is only available during peak season (May through September), and sale is restricted to individuals aged 12 years or older.…”

“…21 A subsequent policy change allowed for telephonic interview with a pharmacist. 22 OTC sale is only available during peak season (May through September), and sale is restricted to individuals aged 12 years or older. Furthermore, symptoms must be limited to within 48 hours of onset.…”

Community pharmacy: an untapped patient data resource

“…In one study designed to improve management of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, routine supply of inhaler therapy was used to identify potentially suitable patients thereby focusing recruitment, 12 while in another, the regular receipt of four or more medicines was used as a proxy for risk from adverse drug events. 13 …”