Integrating medication samples into the traditional community pharmacy supply chain: a feasibility study. (18th August 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: McCarthy, Lisa M.; Brown, Thomas E.R.; Crown, Natalie; Jobanputra, Neil; Lui, Michelle; Laporte, Leigha; Taylor, Valerie H.
• Is Part Of: International journal of pharmacy practice. Volume 26:Number 3(2018)
• Page Start: 284
• Page End: 287
• Publication Date: 2017-08-18
• Subjects: community pharmacy -- pharmaceutical distribution -- pharmaceutical samples -- physician -- practice patterns; Pharmacy -- Practice -- Periodicals; 615.1
• DOI: 10.1111/ijpp.12390
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0961-7671

Abstract

Abstract: Objective: To assess the feasibility of a medication sampling program involving community pharmacists. Methods: A community pharmacy dispensed samples after receiving a voucher given to patients by prescribers. Surveys explored prescribers' and patients' views about sampling and patients' experiences with the program. Key findings: Half of prescribers reported providing samples, yet 15 patients redeemed 18 vouchers over 1 year. Patients expressed favourable views towards sampling and pharmacist involvement, despite more than half ( n = 8/15, 53%) feeling that visiting the pharmacy was less convenient. Conclusion: A voucher‐based medication sampling program based in a community pharmacy is a model integrating pharmacist care.