Exploring the value of clinical pharmacy services for African American patients with diabetes in underserved settings

Objectives: The role of a pharmacist within underserved settings has not been well studied, and it is unknown how pharmacists can better meet the needs of African American patients with diabetes in these settings. The purpose of this qualitative study is to identify unmet diabetes management and medication-related needs of African American patients with Type 2 diabetes who are receiving care in underserved settings. Methods: Individual, semi-structured interviews will be conducted with patients from the Birmingham Free Clinic (BFC) and the Matilda Theiss Health Center (MTHC) located in Pittsburgh, PA. Inclusion criteria include: African American men and women at least 18 years old who currently have uncontrolled Type 2 diabetes (A1C > 7%) and are receiving health care services from either the BFC or the MTHC. Participants will be asked to answer questions related to the following four themes: (1) PatientsŐ perceived attitudes and perspectives about self-management of diabetes (2) Perceived medication-related needs (3) Perceptions of the role of their pharmacist, and (4) Attitudes concerning how pharmacists can be better integrated in their health care. All interviews will be conducted by the principal investigator and continue until model saturation occurs. Interview participants will also be administered a survey to gather demographic information. Results: Interview questions were developed based on a literature search and various experts in this area have validated questions. Upon completion of interviews, qualitative analysis will be conducted using the Principles of Grounded Theory. This project will be completed by April 2012. Conclusion: Results will help to provide guidance for pharmacists working in underserved settings who are interested in expanding clinical pharmacy services for African American patients with diabetes.