Qualitative analysis of community pharmacists' opinions on their involvement in reducing potentially inappropriate prescribing

Purpose: Older people are at risk of potentially inappropriate prescribing (PIP) due to polypharmacy arising from multi-morbidity. Despite available explicit criteria to reduce PIP, it is highly prevalent. Whilst community pharmacists have the required knowledge to help reduce PIP, they are not currently engaged with the problem. This study explores the views of community pharmacists on their potential involvement in reducing PIP and determines the challenges to its implementation. Methods: Semi-structured interviews with pharmacists working in community pharmacies in Ireland. The theoretical domains framework (TDF) was used to develop the topic guide and to analyse the transcripts. Domains of highest relevance for PIP reduction were identified based on their frequency or whether the participants emphasised the impact of constructs within a domain. Local ethical approval was obtained. Results: Of 18 participants, 12 were female, median age was 30 years (IQR, 27–35) with a median of 6 years (IQR, 3–8) of experience. Seven TDF domains were identified as relevant to PIP reduction. Pharmacists were uncertain about their role in reducing PIP and reluctant to challenge physicians’ prescribing decisions. Challenges pertained to the environment, knowledge, social influences, professional role and identity. Conclusions: Pharmacists welcomed new responsibilities in reducing PIP as part of their daily practice but expressed a need for removal of social and environmental barriers as well as, provision of relevant guidelines and education about PIP. This study provides useful insights into the target domains for overcoming barriers of pharmacist involvement in reducing PIP.