Expanding pharmacogenomics in the community pharmacy setting: A survey of Alabama community pharmacists' confidence, perceptions, interest, and preparedness
Courtney S. Watts Alexander, Lucia G. Tocco, Lena D. McDowell, Lindsey A. Hohmann, Kimberly Braxton Lloyd, Olivia G. Chafe, Courtney E. Gamston
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Background
Pharmacogenomics (PGx) clinical decision support (CDS) is essential for effective PGx implementation, yet most tools remain confined to institutional settings. Community pharmacists, who make up nearly half of the U.S. pharmacy workforce, are among the most accessible health care providers, offering care without appointments and reaching patients across both urban and rural areas. This accessibility positions them as critical entry points for delivering PGx services and advancing equitable access. However, many lack the training and resources necessary to provide informed PGx care.
Objective
The purpose of this study was to survey Alabama community pharmacists to assess confidence in PGx knowledge and experiences, perceived benefits and barriers, and interest and preparedness for implementation, with attention to the role of CDS tools.
Methods
A cross-sectional survey was distributed via email to Alabama pharmacists between September and October 2024. Items included Likert-type scales, multiple-choice, yes/no, and open responses. Descriptive statistics characterized responses, and Mann-Whitney U tests compared responses between subgroups.
Results
Of 1638 invited pharmacists, 233 responded (14.2%), with 135 included in the analysis. Participants were primarily female (70.9%), urban (81.5%), and averaged 45.4 years of age. Only 19% reported prior PGx training. Confidence in foundational knowledge was low (mean scale score = 2.74, standard deviation [SD] = 0.44). Perceived benefits were high (mean scale score = 4.06, SD = 0.17). Interest and preparedness varied (interest = 3.52 [SD = 0.15]; preparedness = 2.69 [SD = 0.32]). Fifty percent desired PGx-CDS tools, and 53% expressed interest in offering PGx services; however, few reported adequate site resources.
Conclusion
Alabama pharmacists expressed strong PGx interest and perceived benefits, but reported gaps in knowledge, confidence, and infrastructure. Given their accessibility, community pharmacists represent a critical bridge to equitable PGx adoption. Expanding PGx education, training, and CDS integration is essential to enable sustainable PGx delivery in community pharmacy.
期刊介绍:
The Journal of the American Pharmacists Association is the official peer-reviewed journal of the American Pharmacists Association (APhA), providing information on pharmaceutical care, drug therapy, diseases and other health issues, trends in pharmacy practice and therapeutics, informed opinion, and original research. JAPhA publishes original research, reviews, experiences, and opinion articles that link science to contemporary pharmacy practice to improve patient care.