Exploring the implementation of a novel optimizing care model in the community pharmacy setting

Area of Science:

• Pharmacy practice and management
• Health services research
• Medication safety

Background:

• Community pharmacies are evolving to offer expanded patient care services.
• Task delegation, specifically final product verification, is a key strategy for optimizing pharmacist time.
• The Optimizing Care Model (OCM) explores the implementation of such delegation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and summarize perspectives of managers, pharmacists, and technicians on implementing the OCM.
• To understand successes and concerns related to task delegation within the OCM.
• To evaluate the impact of the OCM on community pharmacy practice.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative research design utilizing semistructured interviews.
• Thematic analysis (inductive and deductive) of interview transcripts.
• Participants included managers, pharmacists, and technicians from diverse community pharmacy settings.

Main Results:

• The OCM facilitates expansion of patient care services by freeing up pharmacist time.
• The model positively influences pharmacy personnel roles, job satisfaction, engagement, and commitment.
• Successful OCM implementation requires significant operational changes and strong technician engagement.

Conclusions:

• Delegating final product verification to pharmacy technicians via the OCM can enhance patient care delivery.
• The OCM demonstrates positive organizational and individual outcomes, including improved quality of work life.
• Key factors for successful OCM implementation and sustainability involve operational adjustments and personnel engagement.