Exploring Challenges and Barriers for Pharmacists in Managing Cancer Pain: A Qualitative Study

Background: To explore the challenges and barriers encountered by pharmacists in managing cancer pain, to better understand their roles in cancer pain management, and to provide a reference for future research.Methods: Using qualitative research methods, 14 pharmacists from 6 cities who met the inclusion criteria and were involved in cancer pain treatment were recruited for semi-structured interviews.Data were analyzed and interpreted using the Colaizzi analysis method.Results: Two main themes and five sub-themes were identified: (1) insufficient work competency, reflected in limited knowledge and inadequate practical skills in pharmaceutical services; and (2) practical difficulties, including lack of time, barriers in clinical practice, and limited acceptance by medical staff.Conclusion: Several challenges and barriers were identified in the work of clinical pharmacists.The themes and experiences highlighted in this study can inform improvements in pharmacy management strategies and help optimize the quality of pharmaceutical services in the future.Addressing these gaps has the potential to enhance the effectiveness and impact of clinical pharmacists' services in the future.