A qualitative, theory-based exploration of facilitators and barriers for implementation of pharmacist prescribing in chronic kidney disease.

Background: While there is an accumulation of evidence that pharmacist prescribing is safe and effective, there is a lack of research on processes of implementation into practice, particularly for patients with complex clinical conditions such as chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Aim: The aim was to explore the facilitators and barriers to the implementation of pharmacist prescribing for patients with CKD in the United Kingdom (UK).

Method: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with UK Renal Pharmacy Group members who were independent prescribers. The Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) underpinned the interview schedule. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and independently coded by two researchers. A thematic approach was used for analysis, with data generation continuing until saturation of themes. Ethical approval was granted.

Results: Data saturation was achieved following 14 interviews. Most interviewees were female (n = 11), all had secondary care as their main practice setting, and were highly experienced prescribers with 8 having 11 or more years of prescribing practice. Interviewees were positive regarding the development of their prescribing practice. Facilitators and barriers emerged across all 5 of the CFIR domains. Key facilitators were aspects of inner setting (e.g., organisational support and communication) while key barriers were also related to inner setting, specifically the need for adequate structural and financial resources.

Conclusion: This theory-based study has illuminated the facilitators and barriers for the implementation of pharmacist prescribing in CKD. There is a need to consider the resources required for implementation of prescribing practice at an early stage of planning and development.