Bridging the Gap: A Comparative Analysis of African Community Pharmacists’ Scope of Practice in Contrast with Global Models

Abstract

This article provides a comparative analysis of the scope of practice for community pharmacists in Africa, the USA, Canada, the UK, France, and Australia. Identifying gaps and challenges in implementing a full scope of practice in African community pharmacies, the article explores potential strategies to overcome these obstacles and enhance the role of pharmacists in healthcare delivery.

Introduction

The scope of practice for community pharmacists varies globally, reflecting diverse healthcare systems and regulatory frameworks. This article aims to compare the scope of practice for African community pharmacists with their counterparts in the USA, Canada, the UK, France, and Australia. By identifying gaps and challenges, we can explore strategies to empower African community pharmacists and enhance their contributions to public health.

Comparative Analysis

1. USA:

In the USA, community pharmacists are increasingly recognized as essential healthcare providers, offering services such as immunizations, medication therapy management, and health screenings (American Pharmacists Association, 2017).

2. Canada:

Canadian community pharmacists have an expanded role, providing services like medication management, smoking cessation counseling, and minor ailment assessments (Canadian Pharmacists Association, 2017).

3. UK:

The UK has witnessed an evolution in community pharmacy practice, with pharmacists offering services like medication reviews, emergency hormonal contraception, and vaccinations (National Health Service, 2021).

4. France:

French community pharmacists have a diverse scope, including medication reviews, health education, and point-of-care testing for certain conditions (Ordre National des Pharmaciens, 2021).

5. Australia:

Australian community pharmacists have a well-established role in providing vaccinations, medication management, and health promotion services (Pharmaceutical Society of Australia, 2021).

6. Africa:

The scope of practice for African community pharmacists varies across countries, with some limitations in service provision. While dispensing remains a core function, there are opportunities for expansion.

Gaps and Challenges

1. Regulatory Constraints

Some African countries face regulatory barriers that limit the scope of practice for community pharmacists. Addressing regulatory gaps is essential for expanding their roles (Bukama, Kandolo, & Palleria, 2020).

2. Education and Training

Insufficient education and training programs may hinder the development of skills required for an expanded scope of practice. Investing in continuous professional development is crucial (Suleman & Khatib, 2012).

3. Public Awareness

Limited public awareness regarding the potential contributions of community pharmacists may hinder the adoption of expanded roles. Public education campaigns are essential (Oparah, 2011).

Strategies for Overcoming Challenges

1. Advocacy and Collaboration

Advocacy efforts, led by professional organizations and associations, can be instrumental in influencing policy changes. Collaborating with healthcare stakeholders can garner support for expanding the scope of practice (Bukama et al., 2020).

2. Professional Development Programs

Implementing robust professional development programs and training initiatives can enhance the skills and competencies of community pharmacists, preparing them for expanded roles (Suleman & Khatib, 2012).

3. Community Engagement

Actively engaging with communities through health promotion initiatives and community outreach can raise awareness about the valuable services community pharmacists can provide (Oparah, 2011).

Related:

• A Comparative Analysis of African Community Pharmacists’ Scope of Practice against Global Standards and Overcoming Challenges for Full Implementation
• Bridging the Gap: A Comparative Analysis of Pharmacists’ Scope of Practice in Rwanda and Australia in Various Areas
• Bridging the Gap: A Comparative Analysis of Community Pharmacists’ Scope of Practice in Rwanda and Australia in Various Areas

Conclusion

While African community pharmacists play a vital role in healthcare, there is an opportunity to enhance their scope of practice to align with global standards. Addressing regulatory, educational, and public awareness challenges is essential for empowering African community pharmacists and maximizing their contributions to public health.

References:

1. American Pharmacists Association. (2017). Scope of practice for pharmacists. https://www.pharmacist.com/scope-practice-pharmacists
2. Bukama, M. C., Kandolo, S. K., & Palleria, C. (2020). Community pharmacy practice in Africa: Challenges and opportunities. Pharmacy Practice, 18(2), 1868. https://doi.org/10.18549/PharmPract.2020.2.1868
3. Canadian Pharmacists Association. (2017). Professional services provided by pharmacists in community pharmacies. https://www.pharmacists.ca/pharmacy-in-canada/about-pharmacy-in-canada/professional-services/
4. National Health Service. (2021). Community pharmacy contractual framework for England. https://www.england.nhs.uk/nhs-standard-contract/comm-pharm/
5. Ordre National des Pharmaciens. (2021). Professional practice in pharmacy. https://www.ordre.pharmacien.fr/Les-guides/Professional-practice-in-pharmacy
6. Oparah, A. C. (2011). The role of the pharmacist in public health: A survey of community pharmacists in Nigeria. Journal of Pharmacy Practice and Research, 41(3), 222–224. https://doi.org/10.1002/j.2055-2335.2011.tb00620.x
7. Pharmaceutical Society of Australia. (2021). Community pharmacy. https://www.psa.org.au/practice-support/community-pharmacy/
8. Suleman, S., & Khatib, R. (2012). The changing roles of pharmacists in community settings: Perception of a sample of non-health professionals in Pakistan. Journal of Young Pharmacists, 4(3), 169–176. https://doi.org/10.4103/0975-1483.100937