Pharmacists' attitudes, knowledge, utilization, and outcomes involving prescription drug monitoring programs: A brief scoping review

Abstract

Objective: While literature on pharmacists' engagement with prescription drug monitoring programs (PDMPs) is growing, no formal synthesis of findings has been conducted to provide overarching recommendations for research or practice. The objective of this study was to identify and synthesize findings from current literature on community pharmacists' attitudes toward, knowledge of, and registration and utilization behaviors regarding PDMPs.

Data sources: Electronic databases (MEDLINE, PsychINFO, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Google Scholar, and the Brandeis University PDMP Center of Excellence) and reference lists from relevant manuscripts were searched for relevant English-language manuscripts. Key words used in searches included pharmacist, prescription drug monitoring program, opioid safety, attitudes, knowledge, and utilization.

Study selection: Papers were included from January 1, 2008 up to October 6, 2017. Three authors independently screened articles for full text review; 2 authors independently conducted full text review for final study selection. Discrepancies were resolved through consensus.

Data extraction: Data were extracted to an evidence table, coded by topic category, and checked for accuracy.

Results: Fifteen manuscripts met inclusion criteria. The studies varied greatly in methodological approach. In general, pharmacists' attitudes and knowledge of PDMPs positively influenced likelihood to register and use their state's program. Targeted training had a substantial impact on knowledge, registration, and utilization.

Conclusion: Pharmacist-targeted PDMPs and opioid safety training is highly recommended to increase knowledge of and insight into behavioral change.