Consumer and Pharmacist Views on Pharmacists' Roles with Natural Health Products
Author Information
Author(s): Della Kwan, Heather S. Boon, Kristine Hirschkorn, Sandy Welsh, Tannis Jurgens, Lynda Eccott, Shirley Heschuk, Glenn G. Griener, Jillian C. Cohen-Kohler
Primary Institution: University of Toronto
Hypothesis
How do consumers' perceptions influence pharmacists' professional responsibilities regarding natural health products?
Conclusion
Consumers' expectations and behavior significantly impact pharmacists' perceptions of their professional responsibilities with respect to natural health products.
Supporting Evidence
- Many consumers utilize a wide range of information resources that may or may not include pharmacists.
- Both consumers and pharmacists agreed that pharmacists should be knowledgeable about natural health products.
- Pharmacists recognized the need to respect consumers' expertise and knowledge regarding natural health products.
Takeaway
People buying natural health products often feel they know enough to make their own choices, but they still want pharmacists to help them understand these products better.
Methodology
The study involved 16 focus groups with 50 consumers and 47 pharmacists across four Canadian cities.
Limitations
Focus group data is not designed to be generalizable, and findings may not apply to rural or non-English speaking populations.
Participant Demographics
Participants included consumers and pharmacists from various age, education, and income backgrounds across urban Canada.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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