Evaluation of patient safety culture in community pharmacies

BACKGROUND: The majority of medical mistakes risking patient safety have been related to medication. Numerous international health organizations support assessing safety culture in healthcare organizations as a successful tactic for long-term safety development. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess patient safety culture, investigate determinants of patient safety in community pharmacies and identify strengths and possible improvements concerning patient safety in the Lebanese community. METHOD: An observational descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted using the Pharmacy Survey on Patient Safety Culture (PSOPSC). It was distributed among Lebanese community pharmacists. RESULTS: One hundred forty-five community pharmacists completed the survey. High percent positive response (PPR) was seen in the domains of patient counseling (86.4%) and teamwork (83.9%). “Staffing, Work Pressure, and Pace” composite scored 41.2%. Female pharmacists were shown to be more dedicated to patient safety culture, namely in patient counseling skills (P < 0.05). Working for 32 to 40 h per week (β = 19.305), and for >40 h per week (β = 18.315) were significantly associated with increased patient safety score. CONCLUSION: An overall positive perception towards patient safety culture was seen among Lebanese community pharmacists.