Pharmacists' experiences in the provision of screening and monitoring services

Background: The role of community pharmacists in screening for and monitoring health conditions is well established, yet continually developing, with a range of services now undertaken. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the screening and monitoring services provided in a sample of community pharmacies, and the pharmacists' experiences, challenges and quality indicators in provision of these services. Methods: Selected staff from 20 community pharmacies in Brisbane participated in semi-structured interviews about their screening and/or monitoring service for at least one of the following: asthma, diabetes, hypercholesterolaemia, hypertension, weight management, osteoporosis and smoking cessation. Core and service- specific questions covered the service components, attitudes, concerns and quality issues. Results: The various services had similar components but ere provided to different extents. Weight management services were relatively new. Osteoporosis and hypercholesterolaemia services commonly involved hosting service providers. Concerns and challenges included time, financial issues, equipment, space, approaching clients, counselling, quality control and blood handling. Quality measures in use referred to published guidelines, standards, accreditation, continuing training and feedback. Conclusion: Sharing of experiences between pharmacists should enable further development of specialist services in community pharmacy.