The dilemma of clinical pharmacy research

Clinical pharmacy research is defined as investigation of patient oriented drug related services. The dilemma is that Canadian practitioners have failed to do sufficient research in the area of clinical pharmacy programs, and this is desperately needed. A simple two-factor model is proposed to help explain the problem. Factors facilitating research are termed personal and enabling. Personal factors are: knowledge and skills in research design and statistical analysis, as well as personal qualities which include a positive attitude toward research, desire for involvement, and drive to carry it out. Enabling factors are leadership and support (resources, encouragement from management, time, and finance). It is suggested that lack of research skills in practitioners, lack of leadership, and lack of management support are prime reasons for the dilemma. The author proposes that: 1. undergraduates and graduates receive more formal instruction in research methodology and statistical analysis; 2. skilled researchers assume a leadership role, and; 3. research be encouraged by giving it a higher priority, by allowing adequate time for research, and by providing financial and political support.