General practitioners-community pharmacists pharmacotherapy discussion groups: Analysis of their implementation through a series of case studies

BACKGROUND: The evolution of primary care practice has led to the implementation of pharmacotherapy discussion groups between general practitioners and community pharmacists (PPPDGs) in some countries. The aim of these groups is to improve drug prescribing practices and strengthen interprofessional relationships. OBJECTIVE: To gain more insight into factors involved in successful implementation of PPPDGs. METHODS: PPPDG implementation in three countries (Belgium, the Netherlands, Switzerland), was analyzed in a series of case studies. A grid describing different evaluation criteria was completed by stakeholders in their respective country. The data collection was followed by a literature review. RESULTS: Various models were used to implement PPPDGs within each country and different dynamics were encountered. PPPDGs lead to positive effects on the quality and cost-effectiveness of drug prescribing and on the collaboration between general practitioners (GPs) and community pharmacists (CPs). Factors involved in implementation were also identified, such as expectations of GPs and CPs, configuration of the implemented model, and the role of CPs in the healthcare organization. CONCLUSIONS: This study provides insight into the factors involved in successful implementation of PPPDGs in Belgium, the Netherlands and Switzerland. The findings can be used by healthcare professionals to improve the safety, cost-effectiveness of drug prescriptions and systems in primary care. This study offers a starting point for further research in the field.