Community pharmacists’ opinions on skill-mix and delegation in England

Abstract

Although limited by a low response, results suggest being in a position to influence (more experienced, business owners) may be associated with more positive opinions. Further training (including about legalities and leadership) could contribute to optimising skill mix in community pharmacies.

Experiences of pharmacy staff during the introduction of the checking technician role in New Zealand

“…In both NZ and other countries, pharmacists and pharmacy technicians hold differing opinions as to which tasks are appropriate for support staff, and technicians abilities to take on additional roles . Delegation of tasks is not something many pharmacists find easy due to both liability concerns and professional identity .…”

“…In both NZ and other countries, pharmacists and pharmacy technicians hold differing opinions as to which tasks are appropriate for support staff, and technicians abilities to take on additional roles. [8,17,18] Delegation of tasks is not something many pharmacists find easy due to both liability concerns and professional identity. [19][20][21] There is evidence that some community pharmacists believe their presence is critical to patient safety and that staff need clear procedures.…”

Evaluation of community pharmacy workplace wellness: Literature review, environmental scan, and task force recommendations

“… 10 , 26 When pharmacists in the United Kingdom were asked if they were confident with delegating tasks to other pharmacy staff, 92% of those surveyed agreed which indicates an acceptance of expanding roles for pharmacy staff. 54 Studies have demonstrated that pharmacy technicians are willing to partake in activities beyond their traditional duties and have an overall positive attitude for performing such activities, although variations can be seen based on practice site (e.g., hospital versus community) or location (e.g., rural versus urban). 55 , 56 In one study, willingness to engage in these activities was associated with resiliency and was enabled by transformative leadership by pharmacist supervisors.…”

“…When pharmacists in the United Kingdom were asked what changes they wish to see in their pharmacy team, 20% of the responses were related to staff training. 54 In the United Kingdom, training programs are mandatory for pharmacy technicians, dispensary assistants, and medicine counter assistants who are involved in assisting patients in selecting over the counter medications for minor ailments. 54 Pharmacy technicians are also able to receive training on checking prescriptions for technical accuracy.…”

Practice, Skill Mix, and Education: The Evolving Role of Pharmacy Technicians in Great Britain

“…Another contributing factor in community pharmacy is the use of locum pharmacists who may not be familiar with the team, and therefore be less forthcoming or possibly less confident in delegating tasks when they are the 'Responsible Pharmacist' [16]. However, this is not always the reason, and sometimes it is time pressures on management that prevent implementation of skill mix strategy or staff that recognise greater use of extended roles and responsibilities [17] but may not feel empowered to influence any change. Although this is occurring less, it remains a barrier and can restrict flow of patient services.…”