The current and potential role of community pharmacy in asset-based approaches to health and wellbeing: a qualitative study

Background Asset-based approaches seek to positively mobilise the strengths, capabilities, and resources of individuals and communities. To date, limited consideration has been given to the potential value of this approach in relation to community pharmacy practice, yet this is important and timely given community pharmacy’s expanding role and contribution to public health initiatives. Objectives This qualitative study aimed to explore the current and potential role of community pharmacy in asset-based approaches. Methods Fifteen semi-structured telephone interviews were undertaken with community pharmacists and project leads, and public health policy and strategic leads in the UK. Transcripts were analysed using simultaneous inductive open and deductive coding using an applied Theory of Change as an illustrative lens. Results The shift towards patient-facing roles in community pharmacy was felt to offer expanded relational opportunities to engage and collaborate with individuals, communities, and other stakeholders. However, only a small number of respondents described examples of systemic asset-based working within the pharmacy sector. The adoption of asset-based approaches was challenged or enabled by several factors including the availability of protected time/resources, workplace and organisational culture/values, strategic leadership, commissioning, and funding arrangements. Conclusions The study provides valuable insights into the potential for community pharmacy, a previously unconsidered sector, to further adopt and contribute to asset-based approaches and play a more central role in the improvement of public health and reduction of health inequalities.