Perceived barriers and facilitators to uptake of non-traditional roles by pharmacists in Saudi Arabia and implications for COVID-19 pandemic and beyond: a qualitative study using Theoretical Domain Framework

Abstract

Background The COVID-19 pandemic has further strengthened the need for pharmacists to uptake non-traditional roles. Pharmacy practice in Saudi Arabia is emerging in recent years with greater policy emphasis on pharmacists taking new clinical roles. This study aimed to explore the experiences, perceptions and barriers of Saudi pharmacists about their uptake of non-traditional roles using Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF). Methods A qualitative semi-structured study using face-to-face or telephone interviews were conducted. Eligible participants included qualified pharmacists from Saudi Arabia. Interviews focused on pharmacist’s perceptions, current opportunities and key challenges towards the uptake of non-traditional roles. Interviews were audiotaped and transcribed verbatim. Results were analysed through the framework analysis method and were later mapped with respective domains of TDF. Results A total of 14 pharmacists completed the interview (9 females and 5 males). Participants showed an overall positive attitude towards the uptake of non-traditional roles. Participants felt that there was wider support available for pharmacists at the policy level to uptake non-traditional roles. However, a need for greater recognition of roles by other healthcare professionals and patients were identified. Participants alluded to reluctance of some physicians to take on board the suggestions from a pharmacist. Key barriers to uptake of non-traditional roles were related to environmental context and resources domain of TDF. For example, participants discussed the need for even further practical experiences during their undergraduate degree to become ready to adopt non-traditional roles in clinical practice. Conclusions Participants of this theoretically informed qualitative study showed an overall positive attitude towards the way pharmacy practice is progressing in Saudi Arabia and their uptake of non-traditional roles. However, there is a need to improve interdisciplinary working, patient awareness of pharmacist competencies and their educational preparedness in furthering their uptake of non-traditional roles. Addressing such barriers and promoting uptake of novel roles by pharmacists is imperative in the context of emerging COVID-19 and future pandemics.

Community pharmacy cognitive services during the COVID‐19 pandemic: A descriptive study of practices, precautions taken, perceived enablers and barriers and burnout

“…These findings were line with previous study. 56 The CPs’ lack of knowledge about their roles and skills needed during the COVID‐19 pandemic were also indicated as barriers. Behaviour change strategies could be used to develop and implement interventions targeting these barriers, which were identified using the TDF.…”

What Is the Role of Pharmacists in Treating COVID-19 Patients? The Experiences and Expectations of Front Line Medical Staff

“…The Saudi Arabian qualitative study showed that the acceptance of pharmacists' non-traditional roles was generally positive at the policy level ( 18 ). However, the acceptance of these non-traditional roles by other healthcare professionals and patients required further education.…”

“…These studies describe pharmacists' clinical activities in pharmacotherapy consultation and drug therapy monitoring, chronic disease management, and drug supply guarantee in public health crises. Researchers from Saudi Arabia explored pharmacists' non-traditional roles, and barriers and facilitators in performing these roles during the COVID-19 epidemic ( 18 ). One study examined strategies to strengthen the role of community pharmacists in public health ( 19 ).…”

A Qualitative Study on the Working Experiences of Clinical Pharmacists in Fighting Against COVID-19

“…The guidelines from the China National Health Commission made no mention of pharmacists getting involved in the treatment plan. Clinical pharmacists have not fully exerted their professional [15] values due to the following factors of 1) the demand for physicians and nurses in a public health crisis is generally far more signi cant than pharmacists [16] and 2) the shortage of medical resources [17]. During the outbreak, resources such as masks and protective clothing were in short supply [18][19][20] and must be provided to doctors and nurses [21].…”