(234) Implementation of COPD Screening in Community Pharmacies: Results from a Pilot Study

Objective : Pharmacists are in a key position to identify patients at risk for COPD. Our study aimed to develop and pilot test a COPD screening program, as well as explore pharmacists’ views on implementation of such program.

Methods: Phase I included development of a screening algorithm and training, establishment of data collection processes and recruitment strategies. In Phase II patients over 40 years old with a smoking history were invited to be assessed for risk of COPD with microspirometry and learn their lung age. After assessing participants’ symptoms and FEV1/FEV6, pharmacists provided tobacco cessation counseling/therapy and recommended full spirometry. Post-phase II, we conducted semi-structured interviews with participating pharmacists to explore their views on implementation of the screening services.

Results: The screening program was implemented in six pharmacies, with 44 participants being screened. The implementation also included some customized strategies to address unique workflow needs. The mean age was 65 years. More than a third of the participants (39%) were current tobacco users and 66% reported having at least one respiratory symptom. The mean FEV1/FEV6 ratio value was 0.80. Pharmacists recommended spirometry to 10 participants and initiated tobacco cessation services for 9. The session took on average 23 minutes. Pharmacists perceived the program to be well designed and beneficial to patients. Pharmacists were motivated to provide the service, but lack of time, support, interdisciplinary communication, and the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic made implementation difficult.

Conclusions: This pilot data demonstrate that it can be a worthwhile intervention to improve patient centered care for those at risk of COPD. However, changes are required to make this program feasible in routine community pharmacy practice, including establishing collaborative practices between pharmacists and physicians.