Late Breaking Original Research
Monday, November 13, 2023
01:00 PM–02:30 PM
Abstract
Introduction:
In Georgia, Pharmacists may enter into Collaborative Drug Therapy Modification (CDTM) agreements under physician supervision, allowing adjustments of dosages, dosing schedules, and/or medications within a defined protocol. Currently, less than 1% of Georgia Pharmacists have an active CDTM license. Engaging in CDTM agreements can result in increased access to healthcare and reduced healthcare expenses, especially in rural areas.
Research Question or Hypothesis:
What do rural Georgia health system administrators report as key factors impacting successful implementation of CDTM agreements?
Study Design:
Exploratory Qualitative Interview Research
Methods:
Complete target population sampling was used within a rural Georgia health system to increase the likelihood of data saturation and provide the best opportunity for generating comprehensive findings. All seven administrators within the health system were interviewed regarding their knowledge of pharmacists training, pharmacist-led CDTM in Georgia, and benefits/barrier to implementation of pharmacist-led CDTM in their health system. Transcription of the interviews was completed. A two-cycle inductive coding process utilizing constant comparison was employed to identify themes verified by analyst triangulation.
Results:
Thematic analysis identified six themes. There was an inconsistent understanding of the knowledge, skills, and abilities of pharmacists, under CDTM agreements. Perceived benefits identified were [prevalence %] (1) improved patient care [100], (2) increased value-based metrics [71], and (3) enhanced physician-pharmacist collaborations [57]. Several factors were noted as barriers: (1) physician acceptance [71], (2) pharmacist knowledge and comfort [57], and (3) loss of revenue [86]. Administrators reported education regarding pharmacists abilities under CDTM agreements and evidence of benefit would aid in overcoming perceived barriers.
Conclusion:
As crucial collaborators in ensuring successful implementation of pharmacist-led CDTM, health system administrators' limited understanding of pharmacists’ abilities under CDTM agreements can be a significant barrier to overcome. Improving understanding, addressing perceived barriers, and emphasizing identified benefits, can help expand pharmacist-led CDTM agreements in Georgia.
Presenting Author
Suzanne Whitten PharmDUniversity of Georgia College of Pharmacy
Authors
Chelsea Keedy PharmD
University of Georgia College of Pharmacy
Devin Lavender Pharm.D., BCPS, BCACP
University of Georgia College of Pharmacy
Blake R. Johnson Pharm.D., MPH, BCACP
University of Georgia College of Pharmacy
Sharmon P. Osae Pharm.D., BCACP
University of Georgia College of Pharmacy
Russ Palmer Ph.D.
Beth B. Phillips Pharm.D., FCCP, BCPS
University of Georgia College of Pharmacy
Rebecca H. Stone PharmD, BCPS, BCACP, FCCP
University of Georgia College of Pharmacy