school

UM E-Theses Collection (澳門大學電子學位論文庫)

check Full Text
Title

Integration of traditional medicine/complementary medicine products into pharmacy practice : the Australian experiences

English Abstract

Background Traditional Medicine (TM) and Complementary Medicine (CM) products have become increasingly popular in many countries including China and across other countries. The way these products are used has warranted concerns as risks of drug-related problems have been evidently reported. Pharmacists are educated and trained to ensure safe, effective, and rational use of medicines. They are expected to extend their role to include TM/CM products. However, the inclusion of these products into pharmacy practice has not been properly developed. Objectives This project aimed to: (1) develop a prototype of pharmacist’s responsibility with regards to TM/CM products; (2) identify the barriers hindering pharmacists extending their role to TM/CM products and the actions needed; (3) make strategic recommendations for the integration of TM/CM products into pharmacy practice. Methodology A literature review on publications from 2000 to 2015 was conducted to identify pharmacists’ responsibilities towards TM/CM products. Eleven semistructured key informant interviews were conducted in Australia. Then, 3 focus groups were conducted with Australian pharmacists. iv Results Seven pharmacists’ major responsibilities in TM/CM products have been identified. Nine barriers (including pharmacists’ insufficient knowledge, attitude, and lack of research skills) and 7 actions (including education and defining pharmacists’ standard of practice) were found. Strategic recommendations involving 5 key CM stakeholders and 4 key action developments were proposed, emphasizing the need for a collaborative effort. Conclusions This project has successfully developed a strategic approach for the development of pharmacists’ professional role in the context of integrating TM/CM products into pharmacy practice. The output of the research will be valuable for key stakeholders to consider during their decision-making about engaging pharmacists to improve the safe, effective, and rational use of TM/CM products.

Issue date

2017.

Author

Ung, Oi Lam

Faculty

Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences

Degree

Ph.D.

Subject

Traditional medicine

Alternative medicine

Pharmacists

Pharmacy

Supervisor

胡豪

王一濤

Files In This Item

Full-text (Intranet only)

Location
1/F Zone C
Library URL
991005774199706306