Community chain pharmacists' perceptions of increased technicians' involvement in the immunization process.

Area of Science:

• Pharmacy Practice
• Public Health
• Immunization Services

Background:

• Pharmacists' roles have expanded to include immunization services over the past two decades.
• Community pharmacy-based immunization services (PBIS) are increasingly vital for public health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess community chain pharmacists' views on time, resources, and barriers related to adult immunization.
• To evaluate pharmacists' perceptions of achieving National Vaccine Advisory Committee (NVAC) Standards of Adult Immunization Practice.
• To examine the role of pharmacy technicians in PBIS.

Main Methods:

• A nationwide electronic survey of chain community pharmacists was conducted.
• The survey focused on perceived achievement of NVAC standards, time, resources, barriers, and technician involvement.
• Relationships between these factors and the endorsement of expanded technician roles were analyzed.

Main Results:

• Many pharmacists reported not addressing key activities for optimal immunization.
• While most supported technicians asking and assessing patients, fewer supported vaccine administration.
• Satisfaction with resources and technician involvement correlated with achieving NVAC standards.

Conclusions:

• Community pharmacies can enhance immunization goal achievement by meeting NVAC standards.
• Incorporating expanded roles for trained technicians in PBIS is recommended.
• Supervision and training are crucial for effective technician involvement in immunization.