Scientific Poster Session IV - Original Research

Original Research
  Tuesday, November 14, 2023
  08:30 AM–10:00 AM

Abstract

Introduction:

In March 2022, the US FDA launched the Test to Treat (TTT) initiative, through which pharmacists can test individuals for COVID-19, prescribe oral COVID-19 antiviral therapeutics, and fill prescriptions.

Research Question or Hypothesis:

What were pharmacists’ perceptions of the TTT initiative and perceived barriers to its implementation?

Study Design:

A 10-question survey was completed by Gilead medical science liaisons (MSLs) following visits wherein pharmacists were asked their opinion regarding the TTT initiative.

Methods:

Survey questions were captured via SurveyMonkey^® immediately following MSL visits from July 27, 2022 to Oct 10, 2022. Responses to all survey questions were optional. Questions focused on pharmacists’ geographical location, institution type, attitude toward the TTT announcement, and perceived barriers to implementation. Additional feedback was solicited using an open-ended question.

Results:

A total of 55 responses were received across all areas of pharmacy practice (51.1% community; 42.2% hospital; and 2.2% each for academic hospitals, long-term care, and managed care, respectively). In all, 14/55 (25.5%) respondents indicated their institution planned to allow pharmacists to prescribe COVID-19 antivirals, 34/55 (61.8%) indicated their institution had no such plans, and 7/55 (12.7%) did not respond to the question. Most (31/55 [56.4%]) responses reflected positive sentiments regarding the initiative. An emergent theme was the potential for TTT strategies to improve patient access, particularly in underserved communities. Demands on workload, the potential lack of patient medical histories, the need for adequate staffing, and a lack of reimbursement and/or diagnostic materials were cited as perceived barriers. Respondents indicated some barriers might be removed if antivirals had clear dosing, minimal drug interactions, and were safe and easy to administer, monitor, and follow-up on.

Conclusion:

For pharmacists to fully implement the COVID-19 TTT initiative, certain infrastructure barriers must be addressed. Overall, respondents were optimistic about the initiative, specifically its potential to increase access for underserved communities.

Presenting Author

Bryan Polsonetti PharmD
Gilead

Authors

Rico Calara PhD
Gilead Sciences, Inc.

Michael Caron PharmD
Gilead

Allan Gutierrez PharmD
Gilead

Anthony Pudlo PharmD, MBA
Carol Collins-Carriveau PharmD, MAEd
Gilead

Natalie Rose MPH, MMSc, PA-C, AAHIVE
Gilead