A Cross-sectional Study on the Role of Community Pharmacists in Diabetic Patient Counselling and Health Education Services

Abstract

Background: The purpose of this study was to assess the role of community pharmacists in patient-centered activities and health education services for patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, and to identify the barriers involved in the process of health education services. Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted in the Klang Valley involving 254 community pharmacists. Data collection was done by a self-administered questionnaire. Results: Out of 254 participants, most of the pharmacists were females (n=163; 64.2%), of Chinese ethnicity (n=218; 85.8%) and possessed a bachelor’s degree (n=211; 83.1%). Most of the pharmacists attended to counsel patients mainly on the diabetic diet (n=252; 99.2%), diet management (n=249; 98.0%), timing and administration of medications (n=245; 96.5%), weight control (n=242; 95.3%), symptoms and treatment of hypoglycaemia (n=236; 92.9%) and foot care (n=205; 80.7%). The pharmacists identified the common concerns of diabetic patients as retinopathy (n=248; 97.7%) and nephropathy (n=246; 96.9%). Conclusion: The most identified barriers involved in the process of health education services were the cost of counselling, diabetic diet-related services, and patients’ experience with the side effects of medications. A well-structured periodical training is required to equip community pharmacists to deliver these specialised services effectively for better patient care.