Australian community pharmacists' views and preparedness to provide a UTI management service

This study aimed to address the current evidence gap on understanding the Australian pharmacists' readiness and perceptions about the provision of antibiotics for uncomplicated urinary tract infection (UTI) management in the community setting.

A self-administered online survey tool was used to collect data from Australian pharmacists. Pharmacists were recruited via email and by advertising the study on social media platforms. The survey included questions on demographics, perceived benefits, willingness, competence, training adequacy, barriers, and enablers to providing UTI services. Data were analysed using descriptive, comparative and correlational statistical methods, and thematic analysis for qualitative responses.

A total of 144 community pharmacists completed the survey. Pharmacists providing UTI services reported higher confidence in prescribing antibiotics (P < .001), collecting patient histories (P < .001), and differentiating between complicated and uncomplicated UTIs compared with non-providers (P < .001). The relationship between pharmacists' status in providing UTI services, and their overall confidence was mediated by their perceptions of being well-trained and competent. Key enablers included adequate training and resources, while major barriers included workload management and insufficient remuneration.

Confidence in providing UTI services is significantly influenced by training and education. Pharmacists are willing to offer these services to enhance patient care, but additional support such as training, mentoring, appropriate resources, adequate staffing, and remuneration is essential. Addressing these barriers will be crucial for the sustainable implementation of UTI management services in community pharmacies. Future research should focus on strategies to support pharmacists in these expanded roles, and further validate these findings to enhance UTI management in community settings.