A cross-sectional study of pharmacy academics' perspectives on the scope of minor ailments in Indonesia and implications for pharmacy education.

Abstract

Objectives: To describe pharmacy academics' perceptions of scopes of practice, knowledge, and skills required for the education of pharmacists and pharmacy technicians in the management of minor ailments (MMAs) in Indonesia.

Methods: Online surveys were designed for academic staff teaching pharmacy and pharmacy technician students from all 30 institutions in Central Java, Indonesia. Those teaching both courses received both questionnaires. Percentage of common responses (PCR) described the level of similarity of perceived scopes of practice. Descriptive analyses described respondents' demographics and characteristics.

Key findings: No clear consensus was evident regarding the scopes of MA practice from academics teaching each group of students. The majority of academics teaching pharmacy students perceived that MAs such as migraine and indigestion (with the PCR >80%) should be exclusively managed by pharmacists, showing a strong consensus on the role of pharmacists in managing these ailments. Only a 50%-60% consensus was achieved on the scopes of MAs managed by pharmacy technicians. Some academics perceived pharmacy technicians were not competent to manage any MA. Notably, 52.9% of academics teaching pharmacy students taught management of MAs as a separate course, compared to 26.7% who taught pharmacy technician students.

Conclusions: Discord in the scope of practice perceptions between academics teaching pharmacy and pharmacy technician students requires resolution, including the diverse nature of training involving MMAs. Clearly defined scopes of practice are required to achieve consistent education of MAs for pharmacy and pharmacy technician students.