Pharmacist-driven mobile health clinics: a qualitative analysis of logistics for program development, implementation,...

Area of Science:

• Health Services Research
• Pharmacy Practice
• Rural Health

Background:

• Healthcare access is a significant challenge in rural US communities.
• Pharmacist-driven mobile health clinics (MHCs) offer a viable solution to overcome access barriers.
• Limited information exists for establishing and running pharmacist-driven MHCs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the characteristics of existing pharmacist-driven MHCs.
• To provide insights for the development, implementation, and operation of pharmacist-driven MHC models.

Main Methods:

• Semi-structured interviews were conducted with participants from ten pharmacist-driven MHCs.
• A mixed deductive strategy analyzed interview data focusing on program logistics.
• Participants completed intake questionnaires, and interviews were guided by a literature-informed inquiry framework.

Main Results:

• Six key logistical subthemes emerged from interviews with ten programs.
• Programs focus on increasing access, understanding their scope, and meeting community and patient needs.
• Staffing models often involve small core teams with substantial volunteer support and a defined clinical workflow.

Conclusions:

• Pharmacist-driven MHCs effectively address health disparities by leveraging resources and tailoring services.
• The findings offer a practical guide for establishing and managing current and future pharmacy-led mobile health initiatives.