bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Technology in the Pharmacy Learning Environment: Surveys of Use and Misuse
Authors: Begley Kimberley J. , Monaghan Michael S. , Clavier Cheri W. , Lugo Ralph A. , Crouch Michael A.
Published: January 2018

The use of technology in the classroom may have positive and negative effects on learning. The purpose of this investigation was twofold: to identify the effect technology is having on the pharmacy learning environment; and, to assess students' use of technology during class time for non-academic purposes. This study included a national cross-sectional survey as well as a single, college-specific survey. The national survey had a faculty response rate of 71.2%. Of the responders, approximately 61% identified significant problems related to students' use of technology in the pharmacy learning environment. Cell phones were a recognized concern and more than 90% of programs have chosen to restrict cell phone use in the classroom. The single college survey examining technology use during class for non-academic purposes had a student response rate of 87% and faculty response rate of 100%. Students and faculty members disagreed regarding the negative effects of technology use during class for non-academic purposes. Notably, 16% of students acknowledged their in-class use of technology for non-academic purposes had been disruptive to their learning, as compared to 95.7% of faculty. According to students, common reasons for off-task technology use included checking e-mail/text messages (75.1%), lack of engagement (58.1%), multitasking (56.2%), and accessing social media sites (33%). Faculty and students were asked about enforcement of technology policy. More faculty than students supported policy enforcement by faculty (65.2% versus 22.8%, respectively; p<0.001) as well as policy enforcement by students (78.3% versus 31.9%, respectively; p<0.001). Overall, technology use during class for non-academic purposes was common. Many schools and colleges of pharmacy are developing approaches to address these evolving issues by revising their technology use policies.

 

Type: Original Research
Pharmacist Contributions to the U.S. Health Care System Reported in the 2009 and 2014 National Pharmacist Workforce Surveys
Authors: Schommer Jon C. , Gaither Caroline A. , Doucette William R. , Kreling David H. , Mott David A.
Published: January 2018

Type: Original Research
Classifications of Controlled Substances: Insights from 23 Countries
Authors: Dragic Lisa , Lee Elease , Wertheimer Albert
Published: January 2018

Controlled substances are among the most highly regulated and highly abused medications. The purpose of this study was to describe the classification systems for controlled substances in 23 countries and make comparisons. From this review, recommendations are provided for improving classification systems and their impact on medication use.

 

Type: Student Project
Assessing Unmet and Latent Demand for Pharmacists at the State Level
Authors: Arora Prachi , Mott David A. , Chui Michelle A. , Kreling David H.
Published: January 2018

Background: Past reports suggest that a near balance has been reached in the supply and demand for pharmacists in the US. Although data on the level of supply of pharmacists is available, there is no continuous and systematic tracking of the level of demand (unmet and latent) for pharmacists at state level. Unmet demand, an established construct in pharmacy workforce, is important to measure the number of vacancies and assess pharmacist shortage consistently over time. Latent demand or potential demand is a novel construct and has never been measured in pharmacy workforce. With the increase in supply, it is important to measure the potential demand that could be budgeted in pharmacies in the near future.

Objective: The objective of this study was to measure the unmet and latent demand for pharmacists and explore the association between latent demand and workload characteristics in community and hospital pharmacies in Wisconsin in 2011-12.

Methods: The study used a cross-sectional, descriptive survey design. A sample of community pharmacies (n=1,064) and hospital pharmacies (n=126) licensed in Wisconsin in 2011-12 was identified. Key informants (managers/owners) of sampled pharmacies were sent a one-page cover letter explaining the purpose of the study and requesting participation and a three page survey form. The main outcome measures of the study were total number of FTE pharmacist positions vacant, presence of adequate staff size, additional number of FTE pharmacist positions needed to attain adequate staff size, prescription volume, daily census, hospital size and number of hours prescription department is open. Descriptive statistics were calculated for all the pharmacies collectively, then separately for community and hospital pharmacies. Pharmacy setting, vacancies and workload characteristics of pharmacies with and without latent demand were compared using chi-squared test of independence and/or t-test. Sample weights were calculated and used in all the analyses to weigh the estimates to all pharmacies in Wisconsin.

Results: Overall response rate to the survey was 50.1%. Of the total number of FTE pharmacist positions budgeted in Wisconsin, 54.3 FTE positions (1.5%) were reported vacant in 2011-12. Approximately 28.2% of the community and hospital pharmacies reported the presence of latent demand. Latent demand was significantly associated with higher workload in community pharmacies and larger bed size in hospital pharmacies.

Conclusion: There appeared to be a balance between the supply and demand for pharmacists in Wisconsin in 2011-12. There is a potential for additional FTE positions (latent demand) to be budgeted in pharmacies to attain adequate pharmacist staff size. It is important to consistently track the level of unmet and latent demand for pharmacists in Wisconsin and combine this information with other workforce characteristics to guide the decision making of pharmacy workforce planners and pharmacy managers.

 

Type: Original Research
Discharge Medication Counseling and its Correlation with Reducing Readmissions for Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Exacerbations
Authors: Laswell Emily M. , Svelund Elizabeth A. , Harzler Melody L. , Chambers Kasandra D. , Chen Aleda M.H.
Published: January 2018

Objective: To determine the impact of pharmacist-provided discharge medication counseling on 30 and 90 day hospital readmissions and ED visits in patients admitted with COPD exacerbation.

Methods: A hospital-wide improvement was initiated, where COPD patients received discharge medication counseling and follow up phone call by a pharmacist. A pilot study was implemented, and data on readmission rates at 30- and 90-days were collected and compared to a hand-matched, retrospective control group that had not received discharge counseling by a pharmacist. Differences in readmission rates were analyzed using Chi-squared tests.

Results: A total of 28 patients received discharge counseling by the pharmacist and were compared to 28 retrospective patients. Differences in 30-day and 90-day readmission rates were not significant (p=1.000 and p=0.589, respectively). After thirty days, 7 (25%) intervention and 7 (25%) retrospective group patients had been readmitted. After ninety days, 11 (39.3%) intervention and 13 (46.4%) non-intervention patients had been readmitted. Since a small cohort of patients received discharge counseling, the study did not meet power.

Conclusions: Although not statistically significant, patients who received discharge medication counseling provided by a pharmacist had lower 90-day readmission rates post discharge. As regulations are implemented that penalize hospitals for readmissions that occur within 30 days of discharge, it is imperative that health care systems develop new strategies aimed at reducing readmission rates. Further studies that are adequately powered are needed to assess the impact pharmacists can have on readmission rates.

 

Type: Original Research
Faculty Mentor Perspectives of a Formal Mentoring Program for Student Pharmacists: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Witry Matthew J. , Nguyen Elaine , Patterson Brandon J.
Published: January 2018

Objective: To describe pharmacy faculty perspectives on participating in a formal mentoring program for student pharmacists.

Methods: This qualitative study used ten, 45 to 60 minute semi-structured interviews conducted in November and December, 2012 with faculty mentors sampled randomly by strata of on-site off-site positions at a single public university college of pharmacy. Interviews were recorded and transcribed. Transcripts were coded using an inductively created consensus code list. The research team iteratively grouped codes into themes, developed summaries, and identified representative quotes.

Results: Analysis of interviews produced three main themes. Mentor interaction was described as having an investigative or responsive orientation, which influenced mentor actions and perspectives for the relationship with the student mentee. Program structure and concerns included a perceived absence of clear program objectives. Mentor response to feedback focused on 3 feedback sources: administrators, peers, and students.

Conclusions: Overall, faculty mentors in this program had different approaches to, expectations for, and experiences in their formal mentoring program participation. These differences are initial descriptions of mentor approaches toward mentoring interactions by faculty in a formal mentoring program. Colleges of pharmacy leaders and administrators may benefit from more clearly specifying and communicating program objectives in order to achieve results for mentees, mentors, and the organization.

 

Type: Original Research
A New Conceptualization and Approach to Learning and Teaching Motivational Interviewing
Authors: Berger Bruce A , Villaume William A
Published: January 2018

Type: Idea Paper
Development of Critical Thinking in Pharmacy Education
Authors: Peeters Michael J , Zitko Kimberly L , Schmude Kimberly A
Published: January 2018

The concept of development is ubiquitous throughout higher education. Development of critical thinking, problem-solving, and clinical reasoning are noted as important outcomes in higher education, including health professions education. In this era of widening scrutiny, demonstration of this outcome within programmatic assessment is becoming increasingly important. Programmatic assessment of critical thinking is complicated because of its multiple definitions, array of theoretical frameworks, and variety of measurement instruments. Additionally, recent guidelines and standards for pharmacy education have affirmed “habits of mind,” which are not new to education and encompass analytical critical thinking. In this paper, we sought to provide: 1) an overview of various critical thinking measurement instruments with their different associated critical thinking definitions, 2) a background and framework for thinking using the Dimensions of Learning model, 3) implications and applications for assessing cognitive development (critical and complex thinking) within the context of pharmacy education, and 4) specific suggestions for assessment in pharmacy education.

 

Type: Idea Paper
The Impact of a Short-Term Pharmacology Enrichment Program on Knowledge and Science Attitudes in Precollege Students
Authors: Downing Molly N , Rooney Katherine E , Turner Abigail Norris , Kwiek Nicole
Published: January 2018

As our nation and the global economy place an increased demand for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) jobs, science educators must implement innovative approaches to pique precollege student’s interests in these careers. Pharmacology remains a relevant and engaging platform to teach biology and chemistry concepts, and this strategy applied over several months in the formal classroom increases science literacy in high school students. In order to improve the affordability and accessibility of this educational approach, we developed and assessed the impact of a short-term pharmacology day camp, ‘Pills, Potions, and Poisons’ (PPP), on high school students’ science knowledge and attitudes toward science careers. The PPP program was offered annually from 2009 through 2012, and participants spent 6 days learning about pharmacology and careers in the biomedical sciences. All PPP student participants (n=134) completed surveys assessing their basic science knowledge and science attitudes before and after the program. Students achieved significant gains in their science knowledge by the end (Day 6) of the PPP program (from 41% mean test score to 65%; p<0.001). In addition, the majority of participants agreed or strongly agreed that the PPP program positively impacted their attitudes toward science (p<0.001). This study provides evidence that a short-term pharmacology-centered science enrichment program can achieve significant gains in participant’s science knowledge as well as motivation and confidence towards science careers. Moreover, we report benefits experienced by the undergraduate, graduate, and professional pharmacy student teaching assistants (TAs, n=10) who reported improved communication skills and an increased interest in future educational work.

 

Type: Original Research
He Ao Pohewa: The PHARMAC Prescription for Pharmacoeconomic Analysis in New Zealand and the Standards of Normal Science
Authors: Langley Paul C
Published: January 2018

In common with a number of other single payer health systems, New Zealand has, through the Pharmaceutical Management Agency (PHARMAC), established guidelines for formulary submissions by pharmaceutical manufacturers. A question that is important to health system decision makers is to whether or not guidelines for economic evaluations in countries like New Zealand are consistent with the standards of normal science. Do the guidelines require those making the submission to put their claims in the form of testable hypotheses that can support falsification and replication? Are post-listing evaluations of these claims ever carried out? The purpose of this review is to consider whether the 2012 PHARMAC guidelines meet these standards. The assessment argues that the guidelines do not meet the standards of normal science. Instead, from this perspective, they are best characterized as supporting the creation of he ao pohewa (an imaginary world). There is no requirement in the guidelines for claims to be expressed as testable propositions; as hypotheses for expected impact that can be evaluated and the outcomes reported as part of ongoing disease area and therapeutic class reviews. There is no commitment to the discovery of new facts though falsification and replication. Our review concludes with suggestions for a reworking of the guidelines to meet the standards of normal science.

 

Type: Commentary
Supporting Formulary Decisions: The Discovery of New Facts or Constructed Evidence?
Authors: Langley Paul C
Published: January 2018

A critical question, given the growing importance of more targeted therapies to support personalized and precision medicine, is the credibility of the evidence base to support formulary decisions and pricing. On the one hand, for those who subscribe to the reference case model of the National Institute of Health and Care Excellence (NICE) in the UK, the decision rests upon the creation of modeled or simulated imaginary worlds and the application of threshold willingness-to-pay cost-per-QALY thresholds. On the other hand, for those who subscribe to the standards of normal science, the decision rests upon the ability to evaluate competing claims, both clinical and cost-effective, in a timeframe that is meaningful to a formulary committee. If we subscribe to the scientific method where the focus is on the discovery of new facts, untestable claims for clinical benefit and cost-effectiveness, such as created claims for lifetime cost per-quality-adjusted discounted life years (QALYs), are properly relegated to the category of pseudoscience. We have no idea, and will never know, whether the claims are right or even if they are wrong. If formulary decisions are to respect the standards of normal science then there has to be a commitment to claims evaluation. A willingness to accept new products provisionally, subject to an agreed protocol to support the evaluation of clinical and cost-effectiveness claims. This dichotomy between the standards of normal science and pseudoscience is explored in the context of published claims for cost-effectiveness and recommendations for product pricing in the US.

 

Type: Commentary
Imaginary Worlds: The Status of Modeled Economic Evaluation Claims Published in Value in Health January 2015 to December 2015
Authors: Langley Paul C , Rhee Taeho Greg
Published: January 2018

The purpose of this paper is to assess the extent to which modeled or simulated cost-effectiveness claims published in Value in Health in 2015 meet the standards of normal science. To meet these standards, modeled or simulated claims must be credible. They must be capable of empirical evaluation and replication. If these standards are not met then such claims run the risk of being labeled as pseudoscience. Following a systematic review of all publications in Value in Health, 16 papers were identified. Of these 14 presented a cost-per-QALY analysis, with 9 presenting their claims for comparative effectiveness in a lifetime cost-per-QALY framework. With the focus of the assessment on whether or not these studies generated testable claims, none of the studies met this standard. They were best seen as thought experiments or imaginary worlds. Recipients of such claims can of course, on the one hand, reject them outright as not meeting accepted standards in normal science. After all, QALYs are never collected by health care systems and are unlikely to be collected. This means that the outcome metrics are untestable and may never have been intended to be tested. On the other hand, if the recipient believes that the model or simulation provides a sufficient correspondence to reality then the claims made are necessarily entailed. The issue of testing is irrelevant to the belief in the credibility of the claims. The modeled or simulated claims are immune to failure. The review concluded that none of the claims presented were in a testable form and that while 7 (at most) of the studies had the potential to generate testable claims, the rest were immune to failure. In the absence of testable claims, the studies reviewed are most appropriately characterized as imaginary worlds or thought experiments.

 

Type: Commentary
The Science of Safety – An Emerging Concept in Medication Use and Research
Authors: Shinde Shraddha , Crawford Stephanie Y
Published: January 2018

Most published reports of patient safety in clinical practice focus largely on the culture of safety in complex health systems, separate from pre-approval and postmarketing research-related safety considerations for drugs, biologics, and other medical products. The science of safety requires a linked integrated perspective, i.e., an iterative process examining and relating safety concerns from drug or biologic discovery and development in preclinical stages, clinical trials and post-market use, research, surveillance, and potential regulatory changes. This commentary addresses the science of safety across the lifecycle of drug and biological products, regulatory considerations, barriers, and research needs. This paper provides a brief overview on how the functioning of healthcare systems affects the safety environment and describes how stakeholder involvement, research participation, and targeted education and training can help facilitate better safety measures and practices, provide improved quality of care to patients, and contribute to the science of safety.

Conflict of Interest

We declare no conflicts of interest or financial interests that the authors or members of their immediate families have in any product or service discussed in the manuscript, including grants (pending or received), employment, gifts, stock holdings or options, honoraria, consultancies, expert testimony, patents and royalties".

 

Type: Commentary
Patient Medication Use: Interpreting the Results of a Patient Medication Safety Survey by Phase I Immersion Pharmacy Students
Authors: Li Michael , Ortiz Lopez Claudia F , Johnston Nita
Published: January 2018

A medication safety survey was created during our first year pharmacy rotations in order to assess and gain insight to how safe patients are with their medications at home. The patient population was from the nursing units and emergency department of Moses Cone Hospital in Greensboro, NC. The survey questions covered the topics including how the patients take their medications, medication storage, medication disposal, as well as medication adherence.

 

Type: Student Project
Medication Adherence Survey: A First Year Pharmacy Immersion Students’ Perspective
Authors: Ortiz Lopez Claudia F , Li Michael , Johnston Nita
Published: January 2018

First year pharmacy Immersion students from University of North Carolina Eshelman School of Pharmacy used a three question survey during their rotation at Moses H. Cone Hospital that analyzed patients’ medication adherence. Data collection revealed common trends that have been shown in the literature and areas for improvement. This method of evaluation was used by Phase I Immersion students to gain perspective on the problems we continue to have with medication adherence.

Conflict of Interest

We do not have any potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

 

Type: Student Project
Medical Spanish in U.S. Colleges and Schools of Pharmacy
Authors: Mospan Geoffrey A , Griffiths Carrie L
Published: January 2018

Objective: To determine characteristics of Medical Spanish education provided to pharmacy students in schools and colleges of pharmacy in the United States.

Methods: A survey of U.S. pharmacy schools and colleges was performed to determine availability of Medical Spanish in pharmacy curriculum, course(s) containing Medical Spanish education, and characteristics of Medical Spanish courses. Additional follow-up questions were asked if a school did not offer Medical Spanish.

Results: 61 out of 138 institutions completed the survey (response rate = 44%). 36% (22/61) of respondents reported Medical Spanish education was offered in their curriculum. The most common barrier to offering a Medical Spanish course included a lack of personnel to teach the course (n=21, 54%) or no room in the curriculum (n=15, 38%).

Conclusion: While there is a limited number of institutions that provide Medical Spanish education to their pharmacy students, results of this survey provide a basic description of Medical Spanish education in schools and colleges of pharmacy in the United States. Data obtained from this survey can be used to refine or initiate Medical Spanish courses, including the teaching and assessment methods used.

Conflict of Interest

We declare no conflicts of interest or financial interests that the authors or members of their immediate families have in any product or service discussed in the manuscript, including grants (pending or received), employment, gifts, stock holdings or options, honoraria, consultancies, expert testimony, patents and royalties

 

Type: Original Research
Pharmacist Prescriptive Authority for Epinephrine Auto-Injectors in Idaho
Authors: Adams Alex J
Published: January 2018

Objective: To describe recent legislation in Idaho that granted pharmacists autonomous prescriptive authority for epinephrine auto-injectors.

Practice Innovation: States have taken action to increase access to epinephrine auto-injectors by allowing them to be stocked and prepositioned at locations where individuals may encounter allergens. All 50 states have allowed schools to maintain stock supplies of epinephrine auto-injectors and 26 states have allowed other entities, such as summer camps, daycare centers, gymnasiums, and restaurants to begin stocking product as well. In 2016, legislation in Idaho pursued entity stocking while simultaneously granting pharmacists autonomous prescriptive authority for epinephrine auto-injectors.

Results: Idaho legislation granted prescriptive authority for pharmacists for epinephrine auto-injectors not just for individual patients, but also for authorized entities. No collaborative practice agreement is necessary. To receive an epinephrine auto-injector, an agent or employee of an authorized entity must present proof that they have completed an appropriate training program. Pharmacists are provided liability protections when prescribing in good faith to an authorized entity.

Conclusion: Idaho’s legislation provides a potential model for pharmacist prescriptive authority for epinephrine auto-injectors that other states may consider pursuing in the years ahead.

 

Type: Commentary
Impact of Independent Pharmacist Prescribing on the Future of Pharmacy
Authors: Mwawaka Jimmy Shangala
Published: January 2018

Pharmaceutical care as a philosophy is neither universal nor sustainable. Pharmacist prescribing will be the most unifying and transformative innovation in pharmacy practice, globally. Scope expansion supported by prescribing rights for pharmacists will impact pharmacy and other professions: community pharmacy will evolve into an independent profession; and pharmacy and medicine will merge. Important decisions in pharmacy education and practice policy must be made in view of these future changes.

Conflict of Interest

"We declare no conflicts of interest or financial interests that the authors or members of their immediate families have in any product or service discussed in the manuscript, including grants (pending or received), employment, gifts, stock holdings or options, honoraria, consultancies, expert testimony, patents and royalties".

 

Type: Commentary
The Value of a Twitter-based Community of Practice for Pharmacy Professionals in the UK
Authors: Andrews James
Published: January 2018

As a means to work across settings and geography, @WePharmacists is a volunteer-led online social-media group open to anyone, with particular relevance to those operating in or with pharmacy teams in the UK. The goal of WePharmacists is to pursue better patient care and outcomes from medicines through shared learning and a connected pharmacy team. The core offering is facilitated tweet chats, on topics suggested by the community. Resources to aid members in connecting with others, finding information and using technology have been developed, along with materials to help members recognize the learning that occurs with social media use. Community members report the value of feeling part of a wider community, along with the benefit of learning from one another.

 

Type: Commentary
Atypical Antipsychotic-Induced Parkinsonism: A Patient Case with CYP Enzyme Implications
Authors: Figura Carla Dolci , Schuh Michael
Published: January 2018

Objective: To report a case of Parkinsonism potentially caused by neuroleptic medications.

Summary: The case analyzed is that of a 57-year-old male patient referred to a pharmacotherapy service by a neurologist after organic causes of tremor had been ruled out. Iatrogenic cause was suspected and referral expectation was to identify the offending agent or agents and propose alternative therapy.

Conclusion: This case illustrates iatrogenic risk associated with neuroleptic medications while illustrating mechanisms of drug interaction via CYP enzymes that can lead to iatrogenic disease.

Abbreviations: DIP = Drug-induced Parkinsonism; MTM = Medication Therapy Management; PD = Parkinson’s Disease

 

Type: Clincial Experience
The Correlation of Free Health Screenings at Community Pharmacies on Diabetes
Authors: Staudt Anna M , Amtower Jessica E , George Jeniffer , Daniels Nicholas C , Allou Jacques N , Laswell Emily , Ballentine Jeb
Published: January 2018

Objective: To assess the correlation of free health screenings in community pharmacies on patient perceptions of free health screenings and diabetes knowledge.

Methods: The study design was a pre-post observational study using surveys, blood sugar screenings, and patient education on diabetes. Participants were voluntary patients from four REM Corporation pharmacies in Ohio who were 18 or older, not recently tested for diabetes, non-diabetic, not pregnant, and without disorders that could hinder survey responses and education. Pre- and post-surveys assessed both patient perceptions on free health screenings in community pharmacies and on diabetes knowledge.

Results: Among the 26 participants there was no statistically significant difference between patient perception pre- and post-surveys (all p-values ≥0.05), however there was a statistically significant difference between pre and post diabetes knowledge surveys (p<0.001).

Conclusion: Patients have positive opinions on free health screenings in community pharmacies and these screenings can help patients understand disease states and be more aware of their health.

 

Type: Original Research
Integration of Ambulatory Clinical Pharmacy Services in a Gastroenterology Clinic for Management of Hepatitis C Infection: A Pilot Study
Authors: Bower Erika , Holtan Haley , Konstantinides George , Reidt Shannon
Published: January 2018

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to describe implementation of comprehensive medication management (CMM) services in a gastroenterology (GI) clinic for HCV patients on direct acting antivirals (DAAs), and to evaluate services in terms of identification of medication related problems (MRPs), patient satisfaction, and provider satisfaction.

Methods: Six months of visit data was retrospectively collected to determine demographic data and to analyze pharmacist’s identification of MRPs. Patient satisfaction surveys were collected using a thirteen question validated pharmacist-satisfaction survey. After pilot completion, a twelve-question survey was sent to all GI clinic staff members to evaluate overall staff satisfaction with services.

Results: Ninety-four CMM visits were completed. A total of 246 MRPs were identified with an average of 2.6 MRPs per visit. Seventy-eight MRPs were related to appropriate indication, 27 to efficacy, 30 to safety, and 109 to adherence. Forty MRPs were related to drug-drug interactions. Patient satisfaction surveys revealed that 86% of respondents rated the quality of care and services from the clinical pharmacist as "Excellent". Patients better understood and felt confident with therapy. All staff satisfaction survey respondents strongly agreed or agreed that the pharmacist made valuable contributions to the clinic and patient care. All also strongly agreed that pharmacy’s CMM services were an essential component to the management of HCV.

Conclusion: Data supports continued involvement of clinical pharmacists within the clinic to promote safety and efficacy of DAAs. Patient and staff satisfaction survey results further illustrate the importance and value that CMM provided by clinical pharmacists can provide.

Conflict of Interest

We declare no conflicts of interest or financial interests that the authors or members of their immediate families have in any product or service discussed in the manuscript, including grants (pending or received), employment, gifts, stock holdings or options, honoraria, consultancies, expert testimony, patents and royalties.

 

Type: Original Research
Comparing the Research Contributions of Community Pharmacy Foundation Funding on Practice Innovation Between Non-Academics and Academics
Authors: Olson Anthony W , Isetts Brian , Kondic Anne Marie , Schommer Jon
Published: January 2018

Objective: Evaluate and compare the research contributions of Community Pharmacy Foundation (CPF) funding on community pharmacy practice innovation between non-academic and academic principal investigators (PIs) with respect to the following measurements: 1) “Pharmacy Practice Activity Classifications” (PPAC); 2) CPF “Coordinated Use of Medications”; and 3) CPF Investigator Impact.

Methods: Quantitative data for all 124 CPF-funded grants awarded from 2002-2016 were obtained from the CPF website and personnel, while ethnographic qualitative data was generated from queries of PIs. Grant categorization was conducted by researchers serving as judges trained on the rules and procedures for coding. A threshold level of 90% agreement in scores of independent judging was established a priori. Findings were summarized and groups were compared using descriptive statistics for quantitative data and a thematic analysis of PI ethnographic reflections for qualitative data.

Results: There were no differences between non-academic and academic PI groups for Coordinated Use of Medications and PPAC domains, but non-academics contributed more to two dispensing-related PPAC subclasses: ‘Preparing the Product’ (10% vs. 2%) and ‘Delivering the Medication or Device’ (13% vs. 2%). Analysis of investigator reflections revealed similarities between groups regarding impact on practice innovations, expanded collaborations, new practice tools, and patient-care financing models.

Conclusions: CPF funding contributed new knowledge and resources for expanding and enhancing practice innovations as shown by quantitative (PPAC & Coordinated Use of Medications) and qualitative (PI impact) measures. Similarities between PI groups suggest that the CPF has established a funding niche with unique diversity of practice innovation opportunities. This investigation’s findings may be useful to the CPF’s continuous quality improvement efforts, as well as future grant applicants to assess research gaps in the medication use process and develop sustainable, transferable, and replicable patient-care innovations in community pharmacy practice.

Conflict of Interest

This program evaluation analysis was funded by the Community Pharmacy Foundation (CPF). Co-author Anne Marie Kondic is Executive Director and Grants Administrator for the Community Pharmacy Foundation. The ideas articulated in the manuscript are those of the authors to characterize historical CPF grant funding and do not necessarily indicate or impact future funding priorities.

 

Type: Original Research
Beyond the Pharmacists’ Patient Care Process: Cultivating Patient Care Practitioners by Utilizing the Pharmaceutical Care Framework
Authors: Kolar Claire , Hager Keri D. , Losinski Victoria
Published: January 2018

The adoption of a standard pharmacists’ patient care process (PPCP) for the profession, and inclusion of the PPCP in the ACPE Standards 2016, are positive steps for pharmacy education and creates consistency among pharmacy practitioners, regardless of practice setting. The PPCP, and its implications for practice, needs to continue to be embraced by educators and emphasized with students. The PPCP should be the patient care process taught to students and integrated throughout didactic courses and experiential experiences. However, teaching the PPCP or a particular service, such as Medication Therapy Management (MTM) or Comprehensive Medication Management (CMM), is not enough. The patient care process must be taught as one component of pharmaceutical care. Without also learning the philosophy of practice and practice management systems, student pharmacists will not be prepared for the realities of practice. Pharmacists are taking on new roles, getting paid in new ways, and in positions to take responsibility for a patient’s medication-related needs. Student pharmacists need to be in a position to take advantage of these opportunities as they progress throughout their careers.

Conflict of Interest

We declare no conflicts of interest or financial interests that the authors or members of their immediate families have in any product or service discussed in the manuscript, including grants (pending or received), employment, gifts, stock holdings or options, honoraria, consultancies, expert testimony, patents and royalties.

 

Type: Idea Paper
Potentially Actionable Targets: Evidence Standards for Credible Next Generation Sequencing Technology Assessment Claims
Authors: Langley Paul C
Published: January 2018

Despite considerable resources devoted to developing databases to support competitive credible claims for next generation sequencing (NGS) claims, we have yet to meet the standards required in health technology assessment to support such claims. The purpose of this commentary is to consider options open in establishing claims for NGS recommendations. Although NGS platforms offer potential promise in improving clinical outcomes, supporting cost-effectiveness and reducing the overall cost of care in target populations, this has yet to be demonstrated on a scale that is likely to satisfy reimbursers and health care decision makers. Issues addressed include (i) the importance of credible, evaluable and replicable claims from individual NGS platforms; (ii) the difficulties in moving beyond broad-brush claims for improved survival; (iii) the standards required for an NGS evidence base; (iv) protocol designs in establishing the independent contribution of NGS actionable therapy recommendations to outcomes claims; (v) the role of NGS registries; and (vi) protocols to support ongoing credible, evaluable and replicable claims in target patient populations. The critical issue is not analytical and clinical validity but clinical utility. This has yet to be demonstrated.

 

Type: Commentary
Use of Class Facebook Groups to Disseminate Evidence-Based Study Tips
Authors: Ryan Gina J , Augustine Jill
Published: January 2018

Objective: The purpose of this preliminary project was to determine the effectiveness of college administrators using Facebook® (FB) to disseminate information on study methods. Innovation: Eleven study tips in the format of riddles were posted in class FB groups as memes with links that lead to the riddle answers. Between 3.2-39.7% of students clicked on the links that accessed riddle answers. In a survey, 53.8% of respondents found the memes at least somewhat useful and 57.6% reported that they somewhat liked, liked, or liked them a lot. The average score on a study method knowledge assessment increased from 50% to 64%. Critical Analysis: The ratings of usefulness and likeability varied. However, students’ knowledge about the topic increased. Administrators considering using FB to share academic advice should post sparingly, begin posting when groups are initially formed and post early during the academic term.

Conflict of Interest

We declare no conflicts of interest or financial interests that the authors or members of their immediate families have in any product or service discussed in the manuscript, including grants (pending or received), employment, gifts, stock holdings or options, honoraria, consultancies, expert testimony, patents and royalties.

 

Type: Note
Patients’ Perception of a Community Pharmacist-Managed Multidrug-Resistant Tuberculosis Program in Peru: A Public Health Perspective
Authors: O'Brien Sean , Downey Jacy
Published: January 2018

Objectives: The primary objective is to investigate the public’s perception about the role of the community pharmacist in Peru’s directly observed treatment, short course (DOTS) program. The secondary objective is to assess perceived barriers that would prevent the public from utilizing community pharmacists in order to identify future opportunities for community pharmacists to increase adherence to multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) therapy. Design: Qualitative study comprised of an 8 close-ended survey questionnaire.

Setting: Healthcare clinics established by a medical mission group in Lima and surrounding communities, Peru, from July 13 to July 27, 2015. Participants: Patients 15 years of age and over who sought healthcare at the clinics. Main outcome measures: Public’s perception about the role of the community pharmacist in Peru and barriers that would prevent the public from seeking a community pharmacist. Results: Out of the 445 patients approached, 438 patients completed the survey, resulting in a 98% response rate. More than half (52%) of the respondents were likely to seek a community pharmacist to assist them in completing a MDR-TB medication regimen. Almost half (48%) of the respondents felt comfortable with assistance of a community pharmacist in completing an MDR-TB regimen. The physician was the first health care professional that was contacted for all medical situations, including drug-related questions (61%). Lack of privacy in the pharmacy (53%) and busyness of the pharmacists (52%) were the top perceived barriers for asking community pharmacists questions. Conclusion: This study highlights the need for pharmacist participation in Peru’s DOTS program. Furthermore, this investigation has identified several issues of concern related to current community pharmacy practice in Peru. Therefore, future efforts may be necessary to address these identified areas of opportunity to promote the community pharmacist’s role in health screening, drug therapy monitoring, and counseling to decrease the public health burden of MDR-TB.

Conflict of Interest

We declare no conflicts of interest or financial interests that the authors or members of their immediate families have in any product or service discussed in the manuscript, including grants (pending or received), employment, gifts, stock holdings or options, honoraria, consultancies, expert testimony, patents or royalties.

 

Type: Original Research
Description of Discordance Between LDL Cholesterol, Non-HDL Cholesterol, and LDL Particle Number Among Patients of a Lipid Clinic
Authors: Gaborcik Joshua W , Snider Melissa J , Hevezi Margueritte , Wehr Allison , Sharma Kavita
Published: January 2018

Background: While LDL cholesterol measures the cholesterol content within an LDL particle (LDL-P), it may not reflect LDL-P concentrations. If discordance exists, LDL-P may better predict cardiovascular events compared to LDL-C and non-HDL cholesterol (non-HDL-C). In primary prevention patients, discordance has been associated with diabetes, ethnicity, gender, metabolic syndrome, and smoking history.

Objective: To describe discordance in patients of a lipid clinic by exploring associations between patient characteristics and discordance among LDL-C, non-HDL-C, or LDL-P. Secondarily to compare proportion of patients with baseline concordance versus discordance who have ASCVD events, diagnoses of new onset diabetes or death.

Methods: A retrospective, single-center cohort study at a large academic medical center was conducted. Patients establishing care from January 2009 through December 2012 with complete initial labs were included. Logistic regression models were used to explore associations between discordance and patient characteristics.

Results: Of 603 patients screened, the final cohort included 166 patients with 104 (62.7%) discordant. LDL-P was the most common discordant value. Discordance was associated with gender, smoking status, use of lipid lowering medications, and achieving patient specific LDL-C goals. In terms of any event observed after initial measurements, no significant differences were detected between discordant and concordant groups.

Conclusion: Within a lipid clinic population, discordance was associated with male gender, smoking status, lipid-lowering therapy, and being at patient specific LDL-C goal. While associations were found in our population, clinicians should consider measuring LDL-P to fully assess presence or extent of discordance.

Conflict of Interest

We declare no conflicts of interest or financial interests that the authors or members of their immediate families have in any product or service discussed in the manuscript, including grants (pending or received), employment, gifts, stock holdings or options, honoraria, consultancies, expert testimony, patents and royalties. 

 

Type: Original Research
Reflections from the Jury Box: Improving Evidence Based Practice through a Comparison with Our Legal System
Authors: Coppenrath Valerie
Published: January 2018

Background: An experience serving jury duty prompted reflection on the parallels between evidenced based medicine and our legal system.

Findings: The steps of the legal system can be tied to each step of the practice of evidenced based medicine.

Implications: Patients should be included in evidence based decisions. Pharmacists can act as resources for other providers practicing evidenced based medicine. Educators can use this analogy to teach evidence based medicine.

Conflict of Interest

We declare no conflicts of interest or financial interests that the authors or members of their immediate families have in any product or service discussed in the manuscript, including grants (pending or received), employment, gifts, stock holdings or options, honoraria, consultancies, expert testimony, patents and royalties.

 

Type: Commentary
Should Pharmacy Technicians Administer Immunizations?
Authors: Atkinson Dylan , Adams Alex , Bright David
Published: January 2018

Purpose. To describe the potential role for pharmacy technicians in administering immunizations – limited for this discussion to specifically inserting the needle into the patient’s arm and pressing down on the plunger – at the discretion of a supervising pharmacist as a way to enhance patient care and workflow efficiency.

Summary. Pharmacy technicians currently play an important role in facilitating pharmacy-based immunization programs. Technicians routinely perform non-clinical tasks related to pharmacy-based immunizations, though nearly all states prohibit technicians from administering vaccines. Several studies demonstrate that untrained laypersons can safely administer intranasal or intradermal vaccines, and laypersons routinely administer medications through intramuscular or subcutaneous routes (e.g., patients with diabetes or rheumatic conditions). It stands to reason that a trained pharmacy technician could perform comparably on these techniques that laypersons have mastered. One state has adopted rules to allow pharmacy technicians to administer immunizations if the technician has completed specific training on administration techniques and on basic life support. This task is performed at the discretion of the supervising pharmacist, and the pharmacist would still be responsible for clinical aspects of immunizing such as prescribing the right vaccine to the right patient. Additional considerations factoring into the decision as to whether or not to involve pharmacy technicians in immunization administration are also summarized.

Conclusion. If safety can be reasonably assured through training and supervision, it may be appropriate to delegate vaccine administration to appropriately trained pharmacy technicians. Such delegation may enhance workflow efficiency, which may confer added value for patient care and potentially improve access to community pharmacy-based immunizations.

 

Type: Commentary
Welcome to the Interdisciplinary Journal of Partnership Studies
Authors: Potter Teddie M , Eisler Riane , Lewis-Hunstiger Marty
Published: January 2018

Welcome to the Interdisciplinary Journal of Partnership Studies, dedicated to sharing new knowledge and successful applications of Riane Eisler’s partnership paradigm: a new perspective on human possibilities increasingly utilized, explored, and expanded by others.
Artist’s Statement: Recognizing the Interdisciplinary Journal of Partnership Studies Taking Flight
Authors: Nesser Stephen
Published: January 2018

Artist's Statement for the cover art of IJPS volume 1, issue 1: Life Partners at Twilight, 2015. Watercolor on paper.