Pharmacists’ experiences of implementing ethnicity-based eligibility criteria services in community pharmacy

Abstract Objectives Pharmacists are integral to advancing equitable healthcare, implementing culturally safe practices that address power imbalances, racism, and institutional barriers. Ethnicity-based eligibility criteria (EBEC) have improved treatment access in some settings, but little is known about how community pharmacists experience and implement these criteria in practice. This study aimed to explore pharmacists’ perceptions of (i) applying EBEC in community pharmacy; (ii) the extent to which the provision of education or resources would be useful in the future. Methods A descriptive cross-sectional survey of registered and pre-registrant pharmacists in Aotearoa, New Zealand, was conducted. Participants were recruited via professional and researcher networks, with data collected anonymously using a piloted survey on Qualtrics®. Quantitative responses were analysed with descriptive statistics, and qualitative data were inductively coded and refined through team consensus to identify themes. Key findings Two hundred and eighteen pharmacists (median age band 36–45 years, median of 20 years pharmacy experience) completed the survey. Although most pharmacists felt comfortable applying EBEC, half felt implementation would have been better supported if training or resources were available. Participants had limited experience discussing ethnicity with patients and wanted to be better equipped to discuss eligibility with those who were eligible, and with those who opposed the use of EBEC. Resources needed to focus on evidence-based justification of EBEC, definitions of ethnicity, and role modelled conversations. Conclusions When implementing new types of eligibility criteria for community pharmacy services, pharmacists need sufficient and appropriate training and resources for effective implementation.