Pharmacist-Patient Relationship as a Method for Promoting Behavioral Changes and Improved Outcomes in Diabetic Patients

Using a qualitative phenomenological approach, the purpose of this study was to examine characteristics of the pharmacist-diabetic patient relationship that have the potential to lead to behavioral changes and improved clinical outcomes. Bandura's self-efficacy model served as the theoretical framework. Interviews were conducted with 12 participants diagnosed with diabetes regarding their lived experiences and their community pharmacist. Data were analyzed to identify characteristics related to behavioral changes and improved glycated hemogobin (A1C) levels. Clinical outcomes were measured by A1C levels documented over a 6-month period. Study results indicated 20 influential factors and 30 influential characteristics from the diabetic patient’s side of the dyad and 26 influential factors and 17 influential characteristics from the pharmacist's side of the dyad. The main policy implication is to raise awareness of the pharmacist-diabetic patient relationship’s potential as a method to improve the health outcomes of those living with diabetes.