PHArmacists' perspective oN the Take hOme naloxone prograM (The PHANTOM Study).
Jenny Edwards1, Duane Bates1, Brett Edwards1
1Pharmacy Services (J. Edwards, Bates), Alberta Health Services, Calgary.
Summary
Pharmacists generally support the Take Home Naloxone (THN) program for opioid overdose prevention. Improving education and addressing time constraints can enhance pharmacist participation in this vital public health initiative.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacy Practice
- Public Health
- Pharmacovigilance
Background:
- The Take Home Naloxone (THN) program aims to reduce opioid overdose deaths.
- Pharmacists play a crucial role in public health initiatives.
- Understanding pharmacists' perspectives is key to optimizing program implementation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate pharmacists' attitudes towards the THN program.
- To identify barriers and facilitators for pharmacist involvement in the THN program.
Main Methods:
- An online survey was distributed to pharmacists in Alberta, Canada.
- 19 survey questions assessed attitudes, willingness, and perceived barriers.
- Descriptive statistics were used for data analysis.
Main Results:
- 76.8% of pharmacists agreed they should screen patients for opioid overdose risk.
- 79.8% agreed pharmacists should recommend THN kits.
- 60.6% expressed willingness to participate; lack of time and education were key barriers.
Conclusions:
- Pharmacists hold positive attitudes towards the THN program.
- Addressing time constraints and enhancing education are crucial for increasing pharmacist participation.
- Optimizing the THN program can improve its public health impact.
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