Moderating effects of trustworthiness between pharmacists and physicians: using partial least squares

Abstract

Objectives Trustworthiness (TRS) is an essential factor that drives pharmacist–physician collaboration (PPC), which, in turn, improves prescribing behaviour. This study examines the moderating effect of TRS on the relationship between pharmacist expertise, PPC and prescribing decisions of physicians (PPD). Methods A total of 393 usable data were collected from selected physicians using a structured questionnaire form. Partial least squares structural equation modelling was adopted for data analysis. Key findings The result shows that TRS does not moderate the relationship between pharmacist expertise power and PPD, although the relationship is stronger with higher TRS (β = 0.054, t = 0.483, P > 0.05). As expected, the relationship between PPC and PPD is stronger at high TRS (β = 0.137, t = 1.653, P < 0.05). Conclusions TRS plays a ‘dynamic’ role in strengthening the positive impact of high pharmacist collaboration on prescribing rather than a ‘supportive’ role in increasing physicians’ readiness to gather information and recommendations from the pharmacist.