A preliminary study of the potential role of Malaysian community pharmacists in type 2 diabetes medicines management clinics. (1st August 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Sahudin, Shariza; Hussain, Mumtaz; Yahaya, Farah
• Is Part Of: Journal of pharmacy practice and research. Volume 48:Number 4(2018)
• Page Start: 377
• Page End: 383
• Publication Date: 2018-08-01
• Subjects: pharmacists -- primary care -- Malaysia -- diabetes; Hospital pharmacies -- Australia -- Periodicals; Pharmacy -- Periodicals; Pharmacology -- Periodicals; 615.1
• DOI: 10.1002/jppr.1380
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1445-937X

Abstract

Abstract: Background: A substantial proportion of Malaysians with type 2 diabetes do not take medication as prescribed and despite the availability of diabetes medication therapy adherence clinics services within government hospitals, many patients do not benefit. Community pharmacists are in an ideal position to play an important role in providing adherence clinics within primary care. Aim: This preliminary study explores the knowledge, awareness and attitude of independent community pharmacists in Selangor, Malaysia with respect to the management of diabetes with a particular emphasis on the level of service provision within their local communities and their readiness to offer new services. Method: A pre‐validated questionnaire was distributed to 46 independent pharmacies in Selangor, Malaysia. Results: The pharmacists recruited for the study demonstrated a good awareness of diabetes and its management, with many engaging with customers and providing diabetic screening services; however, they generally expressed a lack of opportunity to practise their skills. Conclusion: Community pharmacists appear to possess the skills required to expand their roles in primary care, and must take steps to establish clear working relationships with other healthcare professionals and improve their visibility within their communities.