Provider perceptions of pharmacy-initiated tuberculosis referral services in Cambodia, 2005–2010
OBJECTIVE: To investigate the attitudes and practices of pharmacy-initiated referral service providers in Phnom Penh from 2005 to 2010.
METHODS: In a qualitative study, participants were purposively selected from the register of pharmacy owners providing referral services. Discussions were conducted in Khmer by trained facilitators. Participants discussed topics relating to their experiences and participation in the referral programme.
RESULTS: In January 2011, 54 pharmacy owners participated in six focus group discussions held in Phnom Penh. Interpreted data showed consistency of message across all topics. The emergent themes—altruism, pragmatism and professionalism—underpinned owner commitment to programme goals. Issues associated with patient counselling, fear of infection and quality of care in public sector clinics were of concern to participants. Owners believed ongoing professional support, improved public sector patient care and media campaigns would strengthen their role.
CONCLUSION: Pharmacy outlets provide further options for NTPs engaging with private sector providers. Recognising private provider needs and aspirations may be an essential component of public/private mix programmes to meet public health goals.
Keywords: Cambodia; pharmacies; referral; tuberculosis
Document Type: Research Article
Affiliations: 1: Faculty of Pharmacy, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia 2: National Center for Tuberculosis and Leprosy Control, Phnom Penh, Cambodia 3: Municipal Health Department, Phnom Penh, Cambodia 4: Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Health Sciences, Phnom Penh, Cambodia 5: Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
Publication date: 01 August 2012
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