Action Research for Training of Data Collectors in Modern Pharmacies According to the Good Pharmacy Practices in Chonburi Province

Abstract

Objective: To develop and evaluate the training of data collectors in modern pharmacies according to the Good Pharmacy Practices (GPP data collectors) in Chonburi Province. Method: This study was action research using the PAOR process with 4 phases including planning, action, observation and reflection. Planning phase involved a focus group discussion with 20 stakeholders in the GPP inspection by authorities in order to gain information on problems in the inspection, GPP criteria requiring discretion in inspection, and improvement of GPP criteria. Action phase was the development of a curriculum for training GPP data collectors, setting the administrative process for data collection in accordance with regulations of the Ministry of Finance, and establishing the procedures for registering the data collectors. At this phase, training was also organized. The observation phase involved comparing the results of GPP inspection by the authorities and trained data collectors, evaluating the satisfaction of drug store owners towards the inspections of data collectors, and assessing the data collectors' satisfaction with the training. The reflection phase was group discussion among stakeholders and pharmacies being inspected by the trained data collectors on problems arising during the training, and suggestions for improvement in the next cycle. Results: The study in planning found that 28 GPP criteria required discretion during inspection leading to needs for clear agreements. In addition, the number of authorities was limited for effective proactive surveillance. Therefore, development of capable manpower was needed. The plan was divided into three steps including curriculum development, training, and evaluation. Action phase was the development of a curriculum for GPP data collectors with approval from the Pharmacy Council. There were 32 pharmacists completing the training and registered. Results in the observation phase showed that GPP inspection results of the trained data collectors and those of authorities were not significantly different (P>0.05). Drugstore owners were satisfied with the visits of data collectors at the highest level (scores greater than 4.5 out of 5 in all dimensions). Data collectors were satisfied with the training at the greatest extent as well (scores greater than 4.5 out of 5 in all areas). Results in the reflection phases suggested the shortening of procedures for curriculum revision, work delivery, reduction of training duration and revising criteria for training eligibility regarding the number of years of experience in pharmacies. Conclusion: Chonburi Province trained data collectors in pharmacies according to the Good Pharmacy Practices with same ability as the authorities. Those successfully completing the training could participate in the GPP inspection.