Exploring the experience of managers, employees, and pharmacists in clinical pharmacy in primary care using the SEIPS model: A focus group study

Background and aim

Medication management in primary care faces challenges that affect patient outcomes.

The inclusion of clinical pharmacists in care teams aims to address these issues. In Nordic countries, the role of clinical pharmacy services in primary care is still evolving with limited research. The Systems Engineering Initiative for Patient Safety (SEIPS) model provides a framework for evaluating healthcare systems by examining the system factors and processes that influence outcomes. This study aimed to identify factors influencing the integration and advancement of the role of pharmacists in primary care using the SEIPS model.

Methods

A focus group study was conducted with four groups (n = 17): managers, pharmacists, nurses, and general practitioners. Deductive thematic analysis guided by the SEIPS model was used to structure the data.

Results

Despite taking time to establish the pharmacist as a colleague, the participants expressed satisfaction with the collaboration and the pharmacist's role within the work system and processes at healthcare centres. Central factors for system and process development were identified, including a needs-based and structured approach to implementation, pharmacists with the right qualities and skills, teamwork, and physical presence. Perceived outcomes included increased pharmaceutical knowledge among coworkers and patients, reduced workload for staff, and improved patient safety regarding therapies.

Conclusion

Participants emphasised the potential of integrating pharmacists into primary care to address medication-management challenges. The SEIPS model provides insights into work system dynamics and can help develop the role of pharmacists in healthcare.