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Improving Pharmacy Care: Understanding Patient Perceptions and Addressing Disabilities
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A recent nationwide survey highlights the need for community pharmacies to enhance their services for ethnically diverse patients, particularly those with disabilities. The study, conducted in August 2024, underscores the importance of understanding patient perceptions to improve accessibility and communication in pharmacy care.
Patient Satisfaction and Identified Gaps in Pharmacy Services
While over half of the participants expressed satisfaction with the care received from pharmacists and staff,the study revealed significant disparities. The research, which surveyed 1,218 adults across the U.S., identified specific challenges faced by patients with disabilities and those from diverse ethnic backgrounds [1].
Acute disparities were noted concerning communication difficulties for hearing-impaired patients and limited physical space for those using wheelchairs. Many participants also expressed uncertainty about whether pharmacy staff were comfortable interacting with individuals from diverse ethnic backgrounds [2].
Did You Know? Approximately 16% of the global population, or 1.3 billion people, live with some form of disability.
Accessing adequate healthcare can be especially challenging for individuals with hidden disabilities. These disabilities, which include conditions like autoimmune diseases, neurological disorders, mental health issues, and chronic pain, are not immediately apparent but significantly impact daily life. Experts estimate that 80% of individuals with disabilities have a concealed condition [3].
Pharmacy professionals have a duty to recognize and accommodate these needs to ensure inclusive and accessible services for everyone.
strategies for Improving Pharmacy Accessibility and Inclusivity
The study emphasizes the critical role of effective communication in pharmacy care. Ensuring patients understand their prescriptions and how to take them is paramount. As one researcher noted, a prescription is ineffective, or even harmful, if the patient does not understand it