Knowledge, attitudes, and practices of pharmacists in caring for patients with substance use disorders

Background While pharmacists are optimally positioned to help provide support for those with substance use disorders (SUD), little is known about their knowledge, attitudes, and practices in this area. Objectives The primary objective of this study is to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of hospital pharmacists in caring for patients with SUD. The secondary objectives are to identify barriers and facilitators that exist in the current work environment and evaluate how these factors play a role in pharmacists' practice. Methods An anonymous, cross-sectional, online survey of 770 pharmacists employed by Lower Mainland Pharmacy Services in British Columbia was conducted. The survey was comprised of 27 questions, including a mix of qualitative and quantitative questions. The domains of questions explored pharmacists' knowledge of SUD, attitudes toward provincial harm reduction policies, and care provided for different SUD. Results A total of 127 pharmacists (16.5%) responded to the survey. Seventy-two percent of pharmacists received less than 5 hours of schooling on SUD and less than 7% of pharmacists reported feeling adequately prepared by their formal education to care for patients with SUD. Less than a quarter of pharmacists report regularly monitoring and recommending treatment options for patients with SUD. Most pharmacists expressed interest in some form of SUD courses that could help to improve patient care. Conclusion In this study of pharmacists, the majority of hospital pharmacists felt unprepared to care for patients with SUD, but expressed interest in education that could help to improve their knowledge and skills.