Pharmacy Technicians Help to Push Boundaries in Delivering Quality Care

Desselle, Shane P.

doi:10.3390/pharmacy8020098

Cited by 1 publication

(1 citation statement)

References 24 publications

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“…Several of the "champions" also noted a sense of satisfaction with their expanded role in improving the health of patients. These findings support the expanded role that pharmacy technicians can play in integrating clinical services, including but not limited to tobacco cessation, into routine practice [27][28][29][30]. Further, this highlights the value of "identifying and preparing champions" to support and drive the implementation of these new services [26].…”

Section: Discussionsupporting

confidence: 62%

Closing the Tobacco Treatment Gap: A Qualitative Study of Tobacco Cessation Service Implementation in Community Pharmacies

Ellis Hilts,

Elkhadragy,

Corelli

et al. 2024

Pharmacy

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Tobacco use remains a leading preventable cause of morbidity and mortality, with pharmacotherapy and counseling recognized as effective cessation aids. Yet, the potential role of pharmacists and pharmacy technicians in tobacco cessation services is underutilized. This study explores the integration of such services in community pharmacies, identifying facilitators and barriers to their implementation. A qualitative study was conducted across seven community pharmacies in California that were affiliated with the Community Pharmacy Enhanced Services Network. Participants included 22 pharmacists and 26 pharmacy technicians/clerks who completed tobacco cessation training. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, focusing on experiences with implementing cessation services. The analysis was guided by Rogers’ Diffusion of Innovations Theory. MAXQDA software was used for data management and thematic analysis. Sixteen pharmacy personnel participated in the study, highlighting key themes around the integration of cessation services. Compatibility with existing workflows, the importance of staff buy-in, and the crucial role of pharmacy technicians emerged as significant facilitators. Challenges included the complexity of billing for services, software limitations for documenting tobacco use and cessation interventions, and gaps in training for handling complex patient cases. Despite these barriers, pharmacies successfully initiated cessation services, with variations in service delivery and follow-up practices. Community pharmacies represent viable settings for delivering tobacco cessation services, with pharmacists and technicians playing pivotal roles. However, systemic changes are needed to address challenges related to billing, documentation, and training. Enhancing the integration of cessation services in community pharmacies could significantly impact public health by increasing access to effective cessation support.

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