Article
Details
Citation
Lowrie R, Morrison G, Lees R, Grant CH, Johnson CF, MacLean F, Semple Y, Thomson A, Harrison H, Mullen AB, Lannigan N & Macdonald SR (2015) Research is ‘a step into the unknown’: an exploration of pharmacists’ perceptions of factors impacting on research participation in the NHS. BMJ Open, 5 (12), Art. No.: e009180. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2015-009180
Abstract
Objective
This study explored National Health Service (NHS) pharmacists’ perceptions and experiences of pharmacist-led research in the workplace.
Design
Semistructured, face-to-face discussions continued until distinct clusters of opinion characteristics formed. Verbatim transcripts of audio-recordings were subjected to framework analysis.
Setting
Interviews were carried out with 54 pharmacists with diverse backgrounds and roles from general practices and secondary care in the UK's largest health authority.
Results
The purpose and potential of health services research (HSR) was understood and acknowledged to be worthwhile by participants, but a combination of individual and system-related themes tended to make participation difficult, except when this was part of formal postgraduate education leading to a qualification. Lack of prioritisation was routinely cited as the greatest barrier, with motivation, confidence and competence as additional impediments. System-related themes included lack of practical support and pharmacy professional issues. A minority of highly motivated individuals managed to embed research participation into routine activity.
Conclusions
Most pharmacists realised the desirability and necessity of research to underpin pharmacy service expansion, but a combination of individual and professional level changes is needed to increase activity. Our findings provide a starting point for better understanding the mindset of hospital-based and general practice-based pharmacists towards research, as well as their perceived barriers and supports.
Journal
BMJ Open: Volume 5, Issue 12
Status | Published |
---|---|
Publication date | 30/12/2015 |
Publication date online | 30/12/2015 |
Date accepted by journal | 12/10/2015 |
URL | |
Publisher | BMJ Publishing |
eISSN | 2044-6055 |