GP and pharmacist inter-professional learning - a grounded theory study.

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Primary Care
• Inter-professional Learning

Background:

• Practice Based Small Group Learning (PBSGL) is a key resource for Scottish primary care clinicians, utilized by a third of general practitioners (GPs).
• There is a growing imperative from governmental and professional bodies for enhanced collaboration between GPs and pharmacists to improve patient care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the perceptions and experiences of general practitioners (GPs) and pharmacists participating in an inter-professional Practice Based Small Group Learning (PBSGL) pilot.
• To understand the dynamics of collaborative learning between these two professions in a primary care setting.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative research employing grounded theory methodology.
• Established GP PBSGL groups in NHS Scotland were adapted to include pharmacists.
• GPs participated in focus groups led by a peer GP, while pharmacists were interviewed individually by independent researchers. Data were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed until saturation.

Main Results:

• Three core themes emerged: perceptions of inter-professional learning, inter-professional relationships and teamwork, and group identity.
• Pharmacists were positively received within existing GP PBSGL groups.
• Both GPs and pharmacists reported valuing the inter-professional learning experience, gaining broader perspectives on the NHS and each other's roles.

Conclusions:

• Inter-professional PBSGL fostered mutual learning and enhanced understanding of professional roles within the NHS.
• The pilot strengthened inter-professional relationships, communication, and teamwork.
• Participants developed a sense of peer recognition and camaraderie, viewing each other as equals.