Pharmacists’ barriers and attitudes towards research in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia: a qualitative study

Abstract

Background The role of pharmacists in the healthcare system has evolved towards facilitating and providing patient‐centred care. Involving pharmacists in research is essential to the advancement of practice; however, at present, the level of involvement of pharmacists in research in Sabah, Malaysia, is low. Aim The aims of this study were to explore the attitudes, perceptions and barriers faced by pharmacists in Sabah and to identify potential strategies to increase the involvement of pharmacists in research. Method The present qualitative study comprised a series of in‐depth, face‐to‐face interviews. Pharmacists from public services in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, were selected using purposive sampling and were interviewed until saturation of themes was reached. All interview sessions were audio recorded and transcribed, with additional notes recorded by a member of the research team. Data were analysed thematically. Results Nine pharmacists participated in the interviews. Two themes emerged around pharmacists’ attitudes towards research: (1) perspectives regarding willingness; and (2) perceptions of research participation. Some interviewees expressed limited interest in research participation because they underestimated or undervalued the importance of undertaking research. Barriers to research participation were grouped into five themes: perception; communication; resources; skill and knowledge; and recognition and rewards. Strategies such as proper time management and providing adequate staffing in research were suggested to overcome the barriers to participation. Conclusion Most interviewees were not aware of the importance of participating in research in improving health care. Practical strategies were suggested to overcome the barriers to participation, and these strategies should be considered when promoting research participation.

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