An ethnographic study of pharmacist prescribers' competencies, collaboration, and barriers in hospital settings

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: This ethnographic study explores hospital pharmacist prescribing practices in an inpatient multidisciplinary team (MDT) setting. This study aimed to identify the underlying mechanisms, including competencies, facilitators, and inhibitors, related to pharmacist prescribing practices in hospital settings. METHOD(S): Non-participant observations were conducted over six half-day sessions with three experienced prescribing pharmacists. Data were analysed using framework and thematic analysis. The RPS Competency Framework guided framework analysis, while thematic analysis identified overarching themes related to emotional intelligence and hierarchical dynamics. KEY FINDINGS: Key competencies frequently observed included interpreting patient records and collaborating with MDT members. Facilitators of effective prescribing included strong interdisciplinary collaboration and access to comprehensive patient information. Barriers such as fragmented IT systems, high workloads, and hierarchical constraints affected the pharmacists' ability to efficiently manage and document patient care. Emotional intelligence was identified as a critical skill for managing professional identity within hierarchical structures and handling the emotional toll of systemic inefficiencies. CONCLUSION(S): Pharmacist prescribers significantly enhance patient care through collaboration and proactive engagement in MDTs. However, systemic barriers, particularly IT-related inefficiencies and hierarchical dynamics, limit their full potential. Training in emotional intelligence and improved interdisciplinary support may enhance the effectiveness of prescribing pharmacists. Addressing systemic issues, especially IT infrastructure, could optimize prescribing efficiency and reduce cognitive load. Copyright © The Author(s) 2025. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society. All rights reserved. For commercial re-use, please contact reprints@oup.com for reprints and translation rights for reprints. All other permissions can be obtained through our RightsLink service via the Permissions link on the article page on our site-for further information please contact j