INTEGRATING domestic violence (DV) education into the pharmacy curriculum is a vital step to equipping pharmacists with the necessary skills to effectively address DV, according to a research based on interviews with pharmacy practitioner educators from Monash University.
The researchers, led by Dr Harjit Khera and Dr Suzanne Caliph, pointed out that community pharmacists are the most accessible healthcare providers, making them uniquely positioned to identify and support individuals affected byDV.
However, they noted a lack of training in this area is a barrier to a role for pharmacists in DV cases, with interviewees citing lack of confidence and ethical and legal concerns as other challenges.
Interviewees recommended that students be trained to recognise, refer and seek guidance from professionals specifically trained to supportpeople affected by DV.
Dr Caliph, who is also a community pharmacist, said: "Community pharmacists are frequently an underutilised resource in the management of DV".
"They have the potential to play a significant role in identifying signs of DV, offering support, and connecting patients with appropriate resources and services."
"Support from groups and individuals trained in DV, such as social workers, advocacy groups, or other healthcare professionals, could enhance training resources and provide valuable real-world contexts for pharmacy students," added Dr Khera.
The authors stated that future research should explore the perspectives and experiences of pharmacy students and pharmacists in practice settings to provide deeper insights into the barriers and facilitators of DV education in practice.
They also suggested that pharmacists undertake mental health training, as domestic violence and mental health are "deeply interconnected public health issues".
The paper is available HERE. KB
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