Article,

Asthma management in the community pharmacy setting in Ireland. (ESCP 40th International Symposium on Clinical Pharmacy. Clinical Pharmacy: Connecting Care and Outcomes Dublin Ireland, 19–21 October 2011.)

, and .
International Journal of Clinical Pharmacy, 34 (1): 186 (2012)
DOI: 10.1007/s11096-011-9602-2

Abstract

Introduction: According to the Global Burden of Asthma report, 14.6% of the Irish population suffer from asthma. The objectives of this study were to investigate the current state of asthma management among patients in primary care, as estimated by their community pharmacists; to identify any aspects of asthma management that are infrequently addressed on counselling; to ascertain factors influencing pharmacists’ ability to counsel; and to investigate communication between pharmacists and other health-care professionals Materials & Methods: An anonymous postal questionnaire for self-administration was distributed to every community pharmacy registered with the Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland in 2010, with a reminder letter five weeks later. Responses were coded and analysed using SPSS v. 16. Results: The response rate was 43%. Respondents estimated that the mean percentage of their asthma patients who used their inhalers properly was 56% and typically, only 11% of their patients used a peak flow meter regularly. 71% of respondents believed that their asthma patients had low expectations of asthma management. On average, respondents ‘often’ conducted interventions with their asthma patients. However, the frequency with which interventions were carried out varied greatly depending on the intervention. 65% of respondents ‘always’ demonstrated the use of a newly prescribed inhalation device. However, 67% ‘never’ advised patients to ask their GP for an asthma management plan. There were significant age/ experience-related differences in the frequency with which several interventions were made (p<0.05, chi-squared test). 85% of respondents believe time is a major limitation that influences their ability to counsel. 57% of respondents typically communicate with a GP about an asthma patient once a week, but 17% stated that, on average they have no such communication. 30% of respondents indicated that a more structured method of communication is needed. Discussions, Conclusion: Community pharmacists believe that their patients’ level of asthma management is sub-optimal. The majority of respondents have a narrow perception of their role in asthma management, evidenced by the frequency with which non-medication related interventions are conducted. A significant improvement in communication between pharmacists and both GPs and practice nurses is vital to improve asthma management in primary care.

Tags

Users

  • @sryder

Comments and Reviews