Identification and Resolution of Drug-Related Problems by Clinical Pharmacist Interventions in an Occupational Health Setting: A Study on Pharmacy Staff

Abstract

Background: Occupational health programs play a critical role in maintaining employee well-being, particularly for healthcare workers exposed to unique risks. Clinical pharmacists are well-positioned to address drug-related problems (DRPs) in these settings, yet their role in occupational health remains underexplored. This study assesses the frequency and resolution of DRPs following clinical pharmacist interventions among pharmacy staff in an occupational health setting.

Methods: This experimental study was conducted at the 13-Aban Pharmacotherapy Clinic of Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. Pharmacy staff with chronic diseases or abnormal test results was identified based on medical records. A single clinical pharmacist reviewed DRPs using the DOCUMENT classification system, provided interventions, and followed up. Recommendations were made directly to participants, and adherence to these recommendations was assessed. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and correlation tests.

Results: Among 601 medical records reviewed, 239 participants met inclusion criteria, and 139 attended pharmacotherapy visits. A total of 277 DRPs were identified, averaging 1.99 DRPs per participant. The most common DRPs were the need for preventative therapy (37.2%), untreated conditions (15.9%), and laboratory monitoring (14.8%). A total of 443 recommendations were provided to participants, with an adherence rate of 76.4%. Among those who fully adhered to the recommendations, 97.2% of DRPs were resolved. While adherence was initially higher among female participants, overall compliance rates did not significantly differ by gender.

Conclusion: Clinical pharmacist interventions effectively identified and resolved DRPs among pharmacy staff, improving medication management. These findings highlight the value of integrating clinical pharmacists into occupational health programs to enhance medication safety and adherence.