Evaluation of online training for the provision of opioid substitution treatment by community pharmacists in New Zealand

Abstract

Online training is an appropriate and economical method of improving pharmacists' clinical skills with respect to this client group, and has the potential to reach a wider audience of pharmacists. Further research is required to investigate OST client experiences in community pharmacy.

Effectiveness of E-learning in Pharmacy Education

“…Every study assessed a different learning topic, although 3 studies included diabetes within their focus. [30][31][32] Six studies (35%) assessed effectiveness of e-learning in pharmacists; [32][33][34][35][36][37] 10 studies (59%) assessed pharmacy students (of which 1 included preregistration pharmacists), 31,[38][39][40][41][42][43][44][45][46] and 1 study assessed both pharmacists and pharmacy students. 30 The number of participants in each study ranged from .…”

“…E-learning programs were considered beneficial in improving knowledge and confidence, and stimulating interest. 30,31,35,37,39,40,[44][45][46] Courses were evaluated in terms of their functionality, which was measured as time taken to complete the course, 35,38,39 online navigation (programs were easy to use and user-friendly), 32,33,35,37,39,44 course presentation (courses were acceptably designed and integrated), 31,35,37,40,46 and technical issues (online access, and quality of recordings). 31,33,43,44 The majority of pharmacists and pharmacy students considered their e-learning 44 Learning was assessed objectively and subjectively.…”

A Scenario-Based Virtual Patient Program to Support Substance Misuse Education

“…The program supports previous research where education increased confidence dealing with challenges associated with and improved attitudes toward this patient group. 7,20 This form of learning also supports the decision-making process when dealing with real-life scenarios.…”

“…Trainees need confidence supporting this patient group because it can influence pharmacist involvement in such services. 20 In Scotland, there is little opportunity for pharmacists to avoid providing substance misuse services.…”

“…[15][16][17][18][19] In the field of substance misuse, online education for pharmacists has been developed and evaluated in New Zealand. 20 The approach replaced a 3-4 hour training session and resulted in improved attitudes of trained community pharmacists toward patients receiving OST, as well as improvements in confidence and skills. Participants stated that the online format was "feasible and highly acceptable."…”