Table 5.
Characteristics and key findings of included mixed‐methods studies (n = 3)
| Author (year of publication) | Aim(s)/objective(s) | Definition and model of PP discussed | Country of focus | Stakeholder population studied (sample size) | Study design and methods | Key findings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Preimplementation of PP | ||||||
| Hanes and Bajorek (2005) 81 | Explore the views of a sample of Australian hospital pharmacists on prescribing privileges | Provided a definition for dependent prescribing | Australia | Hospital pharmacists (n = 10) and teacher practitioners (n = 5; 15 completed the questionnaire, 8 participated in the focus groups) | Questionnaire and focus group | Benefits include more efficient/improved pharmaceutical care and reduced healthcare costs. Physician opposition was a barrier. Training and accreditation beyond registration was deemed necessary. |
| Vracar and Bajorek (2008) 82 | Explore Australian GPs' views on extending prescribing rights to pharmacists, the appropriateness of PP models, and the influence of GPs' characteristics on their preference for a particular PP model | An overview of international models presented | Australia | Doctors (150 approached, 22 filled the questionnaire and 10 participated in the interview) | Questionnaire and semistructured interview | Repeat prescribing and prescribing by referral were the most favoured. Safety issues, lack of awareness of pharmacist training and capabilities, clinical responsibility, GP–patient relationship and remuneration were raised. |
| Postimplementation of PP | ||||||
| Baqir (2010) 80 | Evaluate the extent of PP and identify some of the barriers to maintaining and developing such services | No standardized definition provided | UK | Pharmacists who undertook a prescribing course (179 were invited to participate, 98 filled the questionnaire but not clear how many were involved in the focus groups) |
Multiple methods: questionnaire, focus groups, documents review and interviews |
In secondary care, easy access to medical records and prescription pads as well as close working relationships with doctors were facilitators. The major barrier was lack of a clear strategy at organizational level. |
PP: pharmacist prescribing; GP, general practitioner