The Creation of a Practice-Based Network of Pharmacists Working in Family Medicine Groups (FMG)

A needs assessment study of pharmacists working in family medicine groups (FMG) demonstrated the necessity to build a practice-based network. This network would foster a faster integration into FMG and a more efficient collaborative practice. It would also take advantage of an existing practice-based research network (PBRN)—the STAT (Soutien Technologique pour l’Application et le Transfert des pratiques novatrices en pharmacie) network. A working group of nine FMG pharmacists from the different regions of the province of Quebec, Canada, and a committee of partners, including the key pharmacy organizations, were created. Between January 2018 and May 2019, nine meetings took place to discuss the needs assessment results and deploy an action plan. The practice-based network first year activities allowed identifying pharmacists working in FMGs across the province. A directory of these pharmacists was published on the STAT network. The vision, mission, mandate, name («Réseau Québécois des Pharmaciens GMF») and logo were developed. The first few activities include: Bi-monthly newsletters; a mentorship program; short evidence-based therapeutic letters (pharmacotherapeutic capsules) and a start-up kit to facilitate integration of these pharmacists. The Quebec FMG pharmacist practice-based network has been launched. It is planned to evaluate the members’ satisfaction in late Spring 2020 with regards to activities and resources provided.