Exploring subjective outcomes perceived by patients receiving a pharmaceutical care service.

BACKGROUND

There is a need for evidence to support expanded pharmacist services, especially regarding subjective outcomes experienced by patients. However, it is unclear what aspects of life are actually affected by such services.

OBJECTIVES

The aims of this study are to identify patients' perceptions of both an expanded pharmacist service and its impact on subjective outcomes such as health and quality of life, and to elicit variables that may be targeted in future evaluation of the impact of such services.

METHODS

In-depth interviews were performed with 12 respondents receiving a patient medication record service. The interviews were analyzed using a qualitative constant comparative method.

RESULTS

The service was perceived very differently by unique respondents in regards to its purpose and content, as well as its outcomes. It was difficult for respondents to describe the service as separate from other health care experiences. Gaining control of drug treatment and a perceived feeling of increased safety were central concepts in patients' description of the service. Talking spontaneously about health effects of the service carried no meaning for the respondents.

CONCLUSIONS

The value of enhanced patient consultation, empowerment, the feeling of safety, and increased drug knowledge are important to patients receiving this kind of service and should be central in choosing outcome measures when studying such services.