Role of Pharmacists in Addiction Medicine in Canada's Publicly Funded Health Care Systems: A Qualitative Study.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Canadians face unprecedented substance-related harms, affecting their health, livelihoods, and relationships. While medications are commonly used for withdrawal, harm reduction, and treatment, the role of pharmacists in addiction medicine care settings remains unclear.

Objective

To explore the roles, activities, facilitators, barriers, and value added of pharmacists working in the area of substance use disorder in Canada's publicly funded health care systems.

Methods

This qualitative study was based on virtual interviews conducted from January 26 to February 14, 2024, with 15 pharmacists practising in Canada. Participants were included if they provided direct patient care within a publicly funded system with a component of their focus in addiction medicine.

SUBMITTER: Wiebe A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12057819 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature