Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1
School of Pharmacy, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
2
Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
3
School of Pharmacy, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
4
School of Pharmacy, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia Mater Research Institute, The University of Queensland, South Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
Abstract
Objective: Overcoming language and cultural barriers is becoming ever challenging for
pharmacists as the patient population grows more ethnically diverse. To evaluate the current
practices used by the pharmacists for communicating with patients with limited English
proficiency (LEP) and to assess pharmacists’ knowledge of, attitude toward, and satisfaction
with accessing available services for supporting LEPs patients within their current practice
settings.
Methods: Semi‑structured interviews were conducted with five pharmacists employed in
pharmacies representing multiple practice settings Queensland, Australia. Thematic analysis
was primarily informed by the general inductive approach. NVivo software (QSR International
Pty Ltd.) was used to manage the data.
Findings: Three interlinked themes emerged from the analysis of interview data: (1) Barriers
to the provision of pharmaceutical care,(2) Strategies employed in dealing with LEP patients,
and (3) Lack of knowledge about existing services. Pharmacists recognized their lack of
skills in communicating with LEP patients to have potential negative consequences for the
patient and discussed these in terms of uncertainty around eliciting patient information
and the patient’s understanding of their instructions and or advice. Current strategies were
inconsistent and challenging for LEP patient care. While the use of informal interpreters
was common, a significant degree of uncertainty surrounded their actual competency in
conveying the core message.
Conclusion: The present study highlights a significant gap in the provision of pharmaceutical
care in patients with LEP. Strategies are needed to facilitate quality use of medicines among
this patient group.
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