Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples' perspectives on community pharmacists prescribing: a co-designed study protocol

Background In Australia, medications can be prescribed by medical practitioners, dentists, nurses, and dispensed by pharmacists. Until recently, pharmacists have been limited to prescribing Schedule 2 and 3 medications, and optometrists, podiatrists, and nurse practitioners can prescribe medications under their scope of practice in some areas of Australia. Recently, the New South Wales (NSW) Government initiated a trial where approved pharmacists in NSW and Australian Capital Territory have an expanded scope of practice to prescribe further medications for urinary tract infections, dermatology conditions (mild to moderate atopic dermatitis, herpes zoster (shingles), impetigo, and mild plaque psoriasis), and resupply of contraceptives. This protocol is for a sub-study of the larger research trial and will explore the perspectives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities including clinicians, healthcare services, and community members about the expanded scope of pharmacists' practice.Methods and analysis Yarning circles (group) and individual yarns (semi-structured interviews) will be conducted with leaders, clinicians working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples (general practitioners, nurses, Aboriginal health workers, community pharmacists), Aboriginal Elders, and community members to understand perspectives of the risks, benefits, opportunities, and issues associated with pharmacists prescribing for these specific conditions. Ethics approval was obtained through the Aboriginal Health and Medical Research Council of NSW.Conclusion The findings of this sub-study will clarify Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples' unique perspectives, including perception of risks and opportunities. What is known about the topic? There is no current evidence pertaining to what Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples think of direct prescriptions from the pharmacist for six conditions: low-risk oral contraceptives, antibiotics for urinary tract infections, and four minor skin ailments. What does this paper add? This paper provides a protocol to ensure that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples' perspectives are captured and amplified for policy makers. What are the implications for practitioners? Practitioners are made aware of the perspective of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples regarding pharmacists prescribing certain medications.