Exploring the Role of Community Pharmacy in Providing Healthcare to Young People in New Zealand Using a Youth Participation Approach

Abstract

Background Youth are often perceived as a population with low health needs, because the majority are strong, resilient and healthy. However, many young people in NZ and internationally have unmet sexual, mental, substance-use and preventative health needs. Community pharmacies are accessible and convenient, and their developing scope of practice could provide new opportunities in youth health fields. This thesis aimed to explore the role of community pharmacy in youth health, and, importantly, to involve young people in the research process. Methods An explanatory mixed-methods design was used, in which the results of two quantitative studies were investigated using qualitative interviews to explore and explain the findings. A Youth Advisory Group guided the research throughout, following a strengths-based youth participation approach. Results Secondary analysis of Youth’07 survey data provided evidence of opportunities for pharmacies to increase youth healthcare access in NZ. A survey of NZ community pharmacies confirmed that nearly all provide services in areas of health relevant to youth. However, the youth-friendliness of pharmacy environments could be improved, and pharmacy personnel did not always consider these services appropriate for young people. Qualitative interviews with pharmacy personnel highlighted challenges including difficulties communicating, ethical dilemmas, and concerns about follow-up care. Interviews with young people indicated that they valued the convenience, choice and professional advice available from pharmacies. Key barriers related to lack of information, perceptions of pharmacies as intimidating, limited privacy, and cost. Training for pharmacy personnel and promotion of services to youth were suggested by both parties as necessary for improving service delivery to this age group. Conclusions This thesis has identified potential for community pharmacies to improve youth health, described the barriers from the perspectives of youth and pharmacy, and proposed possible strategies to address these. The profession has a responsibility to respond to the needs of this population, and the role of community pharmacy in youth health should be developed. Youth participation approaches are recommended for future pharmacy practice research to ensure that youth voices are heard.