Researchers from the University of South Australia and University of Western Australia developing a workplace-based training program for aged care onsite pharmacists are seeking aged care staff, residents and family members to inform the co-design project.
The Commonwealth Government has been providing funding for aged care onsite pharmacists since July 2024 with a goal of providing evidence-based, patient-centred care to aged care residents.
This study aims to ensure the training program suits the needs and desires of the varied stakeholders, said principal investigator Tiernan McDonough – a consultant pharmacist and PhD Candidate at UniSA.
“The study will involve focus groups and workshops to uncover what residential aged care stakeholders want from a specialist pharmacist, how a program may be best implemented in the aged care setting and how we could measure success of such a program in line with their needs,” McDonough told Australian Ageing Agenda.
Mr McDonough is leading the development of the workplace training and development program to help support and guide these pharmacists as part of a larger project supported by a Medical Research Future Fund grant that includes a community of practice and software to guide decision-making.
“Working onsite in aged care is a relatively novel role and its expansion relies on a prepared and supported workforce of clinical pharmacists with speciality knowledge and skills in aged care,” he said. “A suite of studies are ongoing, melding scientific evidence and lived experience to create a suitable, effective program.”
For this study, Mr McDonough is actively recruiting aged care residents, their family members and aged care facility staff, all of whom will be renumerated for their time. Find out more or express your interest in contributing by contacting him at tiernan.mcdonough@mymail.unisa.edu.au or 0478602050.
Taking part gives aged care staff, residents, and family members the opportunity to have their voices heard about the future of the onsite pharmacist role, Mr McDonough told AAA.
“You will be meaningfully contributing to and helping guide the development of a program that is ultimately designed to improve the quality use of medicines in our aged care residents.”
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