Qualitative study on the problems and potential solution strategies for part-time clinical pharmacists’ clinical services work in a tertiary hospital in China

Objective To provide an initial understanding of problems and potential solution strategies for part-time clinical pharmacist work in China, and provide references for the training of part-time clinical pharmacists. Methods The study was conducted in a tertiary teaching hospital in China, and the project lasted 6 months. Phenomenological methods were used to guide the research design. Research data were obtained by conducting one-to-one semistructured interviews with part-time clinical pharmacists, and interview data were coded and analysed through thematic analysis. Results A total of 21 pharmacists were interviewed in a semistructured manner, and the results showed that following problems exist in the work of part-time clinical pharmacists: the existing professional knowledge is not adequate to meet the demands of clinical service; the career orientation of part-time clinical pharmacists is not clear; lack of professional self-confidence in clinical pharmacy practice; there is no suitable entry point to carry out pharmacy service work; it is difficult to communicate effectively, and for in addition, 17 potential solution strategies are proposed for the current problems, which can provide reference for the development of part-time clinical pharmacists’ work. Conclusions The work performed by part-time clinical pharmacists is currently immature and the strategies derived from this study may serve as potential solutions to resolve the part-time clinical pharmacy practice challenges.