Investigating the Prevalence and Types of Clinical Services Offered by Pharmacists in Federally Qualified Health Centers in South Carolina: A Qualitative, Cross-Sectional Survey.

PURPOSE

To investigate the prevalence and type of clinical pharmacy services offered within South Carolina Federally Qualified Health Centers (SC FQHCs) and identify existing implementation barriers.

METHODS

This study was a cross-sectional survey of pharmacists or Chief Medical Officers practicing in SC FQHCs. Organizations were identified utilizing the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) database and were contacted to participate in a telephone survey. An electronic form was created in REDCap software. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze and evaluate data.

RESULTS

Twenty-two SC FQHCs were eligible for the survey, with 16 (72.7%) participating. Of the respondents, 9 (56%) offered at least 1 service. The most common services offered were chronic disease state management, diabetes self-management education and support (DSMES), and tobacco cessation (43.8%, n = 7). The least common services offered were chronic care, Hepatitis C, and HIV management (18.9%, n = 3). The most common barriers to implementation were lack of personnel and provider interest (62.5%, n = 10). The least common barrier was a lack of pharmacist interest or time (25%, n = 4).

CONCLUSION

Pharmacists offered at least 1 clinical service within most SC FQHCs. Barriers were identified that prevented expansion of services and further research is needed to overcome these.