An evaluation of a training workshop for pharmacists based on the Stages of Change model of smoking cessation

This paper details part of the findings of a randomised controlled trial to evaluate an interactive training workshop, based on the Stages of Change model of smoking cessation, which was commissioned from Grampian Health Promotions. Forty pharmacists and 54 pharmacy assistants from 32 Grampian community pharmacies attended the training intervention in January 1995. Participants were followed up by postal questionnaire at 0, 2 and 12 months to assess their perceptions of the value and utility of the training, and in-depth information was gathered using telephone interviews with a representative sample of participants (n = 20) 18 months after the workshop. The majority of pharmacists and pharmacy assistants thought that: the model was a good way of understanding smoking cessation; the training was a good learning experience and a good use of their time; they had been able to utilise the training; it had made a difference to the way they counselled customers; had helped them to help their customers; and had increased their job satisfaction.