Exploring the readiness of community pharmacies for practice change within Saudi Arabia: towards the 2030 national vision
Short description
This research is a result of a collaboration between academic institutes in Saudi Arabia and University of Gothenburg (GU). The research work is performed by a GU-based PhD student including field visits and data collection in Saudi Arabia.
The overall goal is to assess the readiness of the community pharmacist, pharmacies (service providers), the public and policy makers towards the 2030 national vision and health system re-engineering plans. More specifically, this research work will investigate existing evidence from the literature, address key contextual factors related to the stakeholders’ perception and preparedness, and investigate Health System and operational aspects for building recommendations and guidelines. A mixed-method approach will be employed including an interventional design in the Eastern region of the country.
Background
In light of the proposed changes of community pharmacies, services should be assessed for any expected challenges as well as barriers need to be identified ahead of the transition, as this may otherwise lead to considerable delays, excess costs and low outcomes. Ensuring that appropriate measures are taken for the effective and efficient introduction of the service changes.
Aim of the project
The project aims to assess the readiness of the community pharmacists and the preparedness of community pharmacy services for the proposed strategic changes in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia based on the national 2030 vision.
Methodology
This research involves a mixed-method approach of qualitative and quantitative studies including interventional design. In the quantitative component, there will be utilisation of two cross-sectional studies, questionnaire-based survey among community pharmacists and public. In the qualitative component, the use of focus groups will involve health commissioners from different health related sectors.
Expected findings
It is anticipated that the results of the proposed research studies will guide policy decision making and actions concerning the ongoing transition of community pharmacies in Saudi Arabia. More specifically, it is predicted that this project will provide novel insight into the perceptions and attitudes of community pharmacists regarding the proposed practice changes, and in turn, their readiness to change. The final report will be published in peer-reviewed scientific journal and presented at local and international conferences and the results of this project will be submitted by the main researcher as a PhD thesis.
