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Community Pharmacist Services for People With Mental Illnesses: Preferences, Satisfaction, and Stigma

Ms. Black was affiliated with the Department of Pharmacy, Capital District Health Authority, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada, when this work was completed. Dr. Murphy is with the School of Nursing, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada. Send correspondence to Dr. Gardner, Department of Psychiatry, Dalhousie University, QEII HSC, AJLB 7517, 5909 Veterans Memorial Ln., Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada B3H 2E2 (e-mail: david.gardner{at}dal.ca).

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to determine patient preferences, satisfaction, and perceived stigma related to community pharmacists. METHODS: A total of 79 persons receiving psychotropic medications from community pharmacies were recruited at mental health outpatient clinics in Canada to complete a cross-sectional survey. RESULTS: Traditional pharmacy services (providing medication information) were perceived to be of greater importance than some clinical services (such as medication and dosing recommendations). However, perceived importance of service was strongly correlated with its availability. Several gaps in service were identified, including advice on stopping medications, collaborating with other health providers, describing how medications work, addressing side effects, and discussing issues during prescription refills. Inquiries by pharmacists about chronic disease risk factors were uncommon. Perceived stigma was similar to stigma with other types of health providers and lower than that reported with other community members. CONCLUSIONS: The perceived value of community pharmacy services appears to be based on their availability. Participants identified some discomfort and stigma associated with community pharmacy services, but experiences were positive overall.

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