Weight management in community pharmacy: what do the experts think?

Area of Science:

• Pharmacy Practice
• Public Health
• Obesity Management

Background:

• Rising obesity rates present a significant public health challenge.
• Community pharmacists have untapped potential to offer weight management services beyond product supply.
• A best practice model is needed for integrating pharmacy-based weight management into the healthcare system.

Purpose of the Study:

• Identify components for an effective Australian community pharmacy weight management model.
• Define the pharmacist's role and necessary training for weight management services.
• Gather practical insights for successful implementation of these services.

Main Methods:

• Semi-structured interviews with 12 Australian obesity experts and pharmacy organization representatives.
• Thematic analysis using the framework approach on transcribed interview data.
• Focus on identifying recommended service components and training needs.

Main Results:

• Pharmacists' roles identified as health promotion and individualized support.
• Multi-component interventions (diet, physical activity, behavior change) were emphasized.
• Key elements include physical assessment, goal setting, referrals, and ongoing support; formal training is recommended, alongside addressing infrastructure and cost barriers.

Conclusions:

• Pharmacists are well-positioned to promote healthy weight and manage interventions.
• Enhanced roles require pharmacist training, up-skilling, and addressing practice facilitators like layout and remuneration.
• This study offers insights for designing and implementing pharmacy-based weight management services in Australia.