Pharmacy Practice-based Research Networks

A special issue of Pharmacy (ISSN 2226-4787).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (10 April 2020) | Viewed by 20206

Special Issue Editors


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Guest Editor
Purdue University College of Pharmacy, West Lafayette, IN, USA
Interests: health services research; practice-based research; medication therapy management; qualitative and mixed-methods

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Guest Editor
University of Connecticut School of Pharmacy, Storrs, CT, USA
Interests: quality improvement; practice-based research; value-based care; health systems

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Practice-based research is a critical avenue for identifying ways to optimize the delivery of pharmacists’ services, ultimately improving patient care. Over the past several years, interest in practice-based research networks (PBRNs) has increased as a mechanism to bring practices together to conduct relevant and timely research.  Currently, PBRNs exist in many different professions, including pharmacy.

This Special Issue on “Pharmacy Practice-Based Research Networks” invites article submissions (in all types of articles: original research, short communications, reviews) that explore PBRNs’ role in advancing pharmacy practice research.  We welcome a broad range of submission of manuscripts which deal with PBRN topics, including (but not limited to):

  • Approaches to PBRN infrastructure building, technology and/or education
  • Strategies for engaging members and investigative partners
  • Examples of innovative methods and/or dissemination avenues
  • Discussion of human subjects and ethical considerations
  • Reports on member experiences,
  • Findings from PBRN research projects

Articles representing collaborations across pharmacy PBRNs, partnerships with PBRNs from other disciplines, or describing “networks of networks” are welcomed and encouraged.

We look forward to your submissions and welcome inquiries regarding the fit of prospective articles for this Special Issue.

Sincerely,

Dr. Margie E. Snyder
Dr. Stephanie A. Gernant
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Pharmacy is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 1800 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • Practice-based research
  • Practice-based research networks (PBRNs)
  • Pharmacists
  • Pharmacy
  • Research methods
  • Community Pharmacy Research Networks (CPRNs)
  • Practice and Research Networks

Published Papers (6 papers)

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Research

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14 pages, 258 KiB  
Article
Experiences Applying Technology to Overcome Common Challenges in Pharmacy Practice-Based Research in the United States
by Stephanie A Gernant, Omolola A. Adeoye-Olatunde, Matthew M. Murawski, Heather Jaynes, Betty Chewning, Lyndee M. Knox, Moises Martinez III, Jon C. Schommer and Margie E. Snyder
Pharmacy 2020, 8(2), 93; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmacy8020093 - 30 May 2020
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2702
Abstract
Despite the importance of pharmacy practice-based research in generating knowledge that results in better outcomes for patients, health systems and society alike, common challenges to PPBR persist. Herein, we authors describe PPBR challenges our research teams have encountered, and our experiences using technology-driven [...] Read more.
Despite the importance of pharmacy practice-based research in generating knowledge that results in better outcomes for patients, health systems and society alike, common challenges to PPBR persist. Herein, we authors describe PPBR challenges our research teams have encountered, and our experiences using technology-driven solutions to overcome such challenges. Notably, limited financial resources reduce the time available for clinicians and researchers to participate in study activities; therefore, resource allocation must be optimized. We authors have also encountered primary data collection challenges due to unique data needs and data access/ownership issues. Moreover, we have experienced a wide geographic dispersion of study practices and collaborating researchers; a lack of trained, on-site research personnel; and the identification and enrollment of participants meeting study eligibility criteria. To address these PPBR challenges, we authors have begun to turn to technology-driven solutions, as described here. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pharmacy Practice-based Research Networks)
14 pages, 252 KiB  
Article
Valuable Lessons for Pharmacist PBRNs: Insights and Experiences from Physician PBRN Members
by Lourdes G. Planas, Shane P. Desselle and Kaitlyn Cao
Pharmacy 2019, 7(3), 123; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmacy7030123 - 27 Aug 2019
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3017
Abstract
Practice-based research networks (PBRNs) rely on a cadre of engaged members to participate in research projects. As pharmacist PBRNs increase in number, it is helpful to understand how members of other professions view their own participation in PBRNs and potential collaborative research endeavors [...] Read more.
Practice-based research networks (PBRNs) rely on a cadre of engaged members to participate in research projects. As pharmacist PBRNs increase in number, it is helpful to understand how members of other professions view their own participation in PBRNs and potential collaborative research endeavors with pharmacists. Due to their longer history of PBRN experience, physician PBRN members may have helpful advice for the establishment of pharmacy networks. The objectives of this study were to describe perceptions among a group of physician PBRN members about: Advice for developing a pharmacist PBRN, practice aspects that might benefit from collaborating with pharmacists who are part of a PBRN, and benefits and challenges of PBRN member participation. This study employed qualitative research methods. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with physician members of the Oklahoma Physicians Resource/Research Network, a primary care PBRN. Advice for establishing a pharmacist PBRN included identifying a champion, recruiting a core group, and conducting a needs assessment. Collaborative areas of interest included medication use management, patient education on chronic disease states, and physician education on new therapies. Participation benefits were categorized as personal satisfaction, improvement in practice quality improvement, advancement of specialty, peer interaction and learning, and real-time information and support. These findings offer insight into strategies for developing and sustaining pharmacist PBRNs and may inform pharmacist PBRN initiatives related to development, member recruitment and retention, and interprofessional project planning with physician PBRNs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pharmacy Practice-based Research Networks)
8 pages, 805 KiB  
Article
Stakeholder-Guided Formation of a Statewide Community Pharmacy Practice-Based Research Network
by Joni C. Carroll, Melissa Somma McGivney and Kim C. Coley
Pharmacy 2019, 7(3), 118; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmacy7030118 - 17 Aug 2019
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2913
Abstract
Community pharmacies across the United States are forming clinically integrated networks (CINs) to facilitate the provision of patient-centered care. These networks need to continually innovate and demonstrate how their patient care services positively impact health outcomes. One way to do this is to [...] Read more.
Community pharmacies across the United States are forming clinically integrated networks (CINs) to facilitate the provision of patient-centered care. These networks need to continually innovate and demonstrate how their patient care services positively impact health outcomes. One way to do this is to develop a practice-based research network (PBRN) in partnership with existing CINs to perform robust outcome evaluations. The objective of this study was to learn pharmacists’ opinions on participating in research to facilitate the formation of a community pharmacy PBRN in Pennsylvania. A 20-item survey gathered information on pharmacists’ research interests, perceived benefits of research participation, and preferences on communication and patient engagement. Descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests were used to analyze quantitative data. Seventy-three participants completed the survey, with 47% representing independent pharmacies. The majority (96%) were interested in research opportunities and 86% believed improving workflow and patient care was the most valuable benefit. Eighty percent of pharmacists reported it is very important to demonstrate that pharmacists care about making patients’ health better. Connecting pharmacists with other health care providers was reported as very important by 75% of respondents. Pharmacists reported face-to-face communication (76%) as their preferred way to approach patients about research and 72% supported using student pharmacists to assist with patient engagement. The results from this study can inform others who are structuring processes and developing communication strategies for community pharmacy PBRNs, particularly in partnership with CINs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pharmacy Practice-based Research Networks)
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11 pages, 1075 KiB  
Article
The Creation of a Practice-Based Network of Pharmacists Working in Family Medicine Groups (FMG)
by Anne Maheu, Marie-Claude Vanier, Léonie Rouleau, Nicolas Dugré and Line Guénette
Pharmacy 2019, 7(3), 108; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmacy7030108 - 05 Aug 2019
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 4734
Abstract
A needs assessment study of pharmacists working in family medicine groups (FMG) demonstrated the necessity to build a practice-based network. This network would foster a faster integration into FMG and a more efficient collaborative practice. It would also take advantage of an existing [...] Read more.
A needs assessment study of pharmacists working in family medicine groups (FMG) demonstrated the necessity to build a practice-based network. This network would foster a faster integration into FMG and a more efficient collaborative practice. It would also take advantage of an existing practice-based research network (PBRN)—the STAT (Soutien Technologique pour l’Application et le Transfert des pratiques novatrices en pharmacie) network. A working group of nine FMG pharmacists from the different regions of the province of Quebec, Canada, and a committee of partners, including the key pharmacy organizations, were created. Between January 2018 and May 2019, nine meetings took place to discuss the needs assessment results and deploy an action plan. The practice-based network first year activities allowed identifying pharmacists working in FMGs across the province. A directory of these pharmacists was published on the STAT network. The vision, mission, mandate, name («Réseau Québécois des Pharmaciens GMF») and logo were developed. The first few activities include: Bi-monthly newsletters; a mentorship program; short evidence-based therapeutic letters (pharmacotherapeutic capsules) and a start-up kit to facilitate integration of these pharmacists. The Quebec FMG pharmacist practice-based network has been launched. It is planned to evaluate the members’ satisfaction in late Spring 2020 with regards to activities and resources provided. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pharmacy Practice-based Research Networks)
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Review

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8 pages, 218 KiB  
Review
Improving Recruitment and Retention of Pharmacists in a Practice-Based Research Network
by Katherine Rotzenberg and Michelle A. Chui
Pharmacy 2019, 7(3), 131; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmacy7030131 - 04 Sep 2019
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2828
Abstract
Pharmacy practice-based research networks (PBRNs) are relatively new compared to their primary care forebears, representing a unique set of research challenges. Recruitment and retention of network members are essential to maintaining the integrity of the network and achieving its research goals. Many studies [...] Read more.
Pharmacy practice-based research networks (PBRNs) are relatively new compared to their primary care forebears, representing a unique set of research challenges. Recruitment and retention of network members are essential to maintaining the integrity of the network and achieving its research goals. Many studies have evaluated recruitment and retention of practitioners to individual studies, while far fewer have reported on recruitment and retention to the network itself. This literature review summarizes current practices for PBRN member recruitment and retention from a pharmacy perspective. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pharmacy Practice-based Research Networks)

Other

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6 pages, 523 KiB  
Commentary
The International Pharmacists-as-Immunizers Partnership (IPIP)—Advancing Research on Pharmacist-Administered Immunizations Worldwide
by Richard R. Violette, Sherilyn K. D. Houle, Lisa M. Nissen and Nancy M. Waite
Pharmacy 2019, 7(2), 53; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmacy7020053 - 04 Jun 2019
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3442
Abstract
This article describes the formation of the International Pharmacists-as-Immunizers Partnership (IPIP), an international network of pharmacy practice researchers with an interest in pharmacist-administered immunizations. Using funds obtained from a university-sponsored grant, a two-day meeting was held at the University of Waterloo in Canada [...] Read more.
This article describes the formation of the International Pharmacists-as-Immunizers Partnership (IPIP), an international network of pharmacy practice researchers with an interest in pharmacist-administered immunizations. Using funds obtained from a university-sponsored grant, a two-day meeting was held at the University of Waterloo in Canada to discuss published and in-progress research on the topic, identify gaps and priorities for future research, and share implementation strategies used in different jurisdictions. Twelve researchers from five countries attended this initial meeting, identified from both personal networks and from authorship lists from published research. Small- and large-group discussions addressed a number of themes, including: clinical, economic and educational outcomes of the service; the perspectives of pharmacists, patients, and other health professionals; operational and policy factors influencing uptake; safety; and the immunizing pharmacist’s role in disaster preparedness. Feedback on our first meeting and outcomes achieved were evaluated on the basis of participant feedback. Key components of the meeting that were considered successful and important lessons learned are summarized, so that other like-minded researchers with a shared pharmacy practice research interest could consider leveraging funding opportunities to establish other international pharmacy practice research networks. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pharmacy Practice-based Research Networks)
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