Influencers on deprescribing practice of primary healthcare providers in Nova Scotia: An examination using behavior change frameworks.

BACKGROUND

Deprescribing is a complex process requiring consideration of behavior change theory to improve implementation and uptake.

AIM

The aim of this study was to describe the knowledge, attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors that influence deprescribing for primary healthcare providers (family physicians, nurse practitioners (NPs), and pharmacists) within Nova Scotia using the (TDF(v2)) and the .

METHODS

Interviews and focus groups were completed with primary care providers (physicians, NPs, and pharmacists) in Nova Scotia, Canada. Coding was completed using the TDF(v2) to identify the key influencers. Subdomain themes were also identified for the main TDF(v2) domains and results were then linked to the components.

RESULTS

Participants identified key influencers for deprescribing including areas related to , within TDF(v2) domain , such as patients and other healthcare providers, as well as barriers (TDF(v2) domain ), such as lack of time and reimbursement.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that a systematic approach to deprescribing in primary care should be supported by opportunities for patient and healthcare provider collaborations, as well as practice and system level enhancements to support sustainability of deprescribing practices.