Exploring Research Capacity and Engagement Drivers Among Hospital Pharmacy Professionals: A Mixed Methods Study

Healthcare research is an essential driver of evidence-based practice, leading to improved service delivery and outcomes. Despite being integral to pharmacy (e.g., in driving safe and effective use of medicines), research engagement is relatively low. This service evaluation study aimed to assess pharmacy professionals' research engagement inclusive of capacity (opportunity and time) and ability (skills and knowledge), and to explore potential barriers and facilitators to research engagement.

The study was conducted at a single Mental Health and Community Trust in the UK between February and June in 2024. Data were collected in two phases: phase 1: an online survey assessed current research engagement, and phase 2: virtual individual interviews and a focus group explored in-depth views on research engagement. All practising pharmacists and pharmacy technicians were eligible to participate and were invited via email through a senior pharmacist. Quantitative data were descriptively analysed, and qualitative data were audio-recorded, transcribed and thematically analysed. As a service evaluation, no ethical approval was required.

Of the 62 invited pharmacy professionals, 32 responded (52%, n = 20 pharmacists). Around 47% (n = 15) reported prior involvement in research activity/training. Most viewed research as relevant (63%, n = 20) and extremely valuable (72%, n = 23) to practice, and 47% (n = 15) expressed interest in engaging in future research. However, few expressed having confidence across a range of research skills. Seven interviews and one focus group were conducted. Three main themes were identified: research-related views and experience, barriers to research engagement, and strategies to improve research engagement.

Overall, positive views on research were reflected. Current research involvement rate is low, as is the confidence in applying research to practice. Several barriers were identified, which require addressing to enhance research activity. Organisations therefore should assess research capacity and ability of their staff to identify encountered barriers to enhance research engagement.