Date of Completion

2024

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy

Keywords

Deaf patients, Community Pharmacy, Community Pharmacy Staff, Primary Caregiver, Zoom, Proxy Intervention Interview, NVivo Software, Engestroms Expanded Activity Theory

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze the perspectives of primary caregivers of the Deaf community regarding the dispensing process of community pharmacy staff for their Deaf patients. Specifically, it aimed to determine primary caregivers' perceptions of the community pharmacy staff’s roles and responsibilities; experiences and challenges encountered with community pharmacy staff; and, enablers and barriers shaping staff competencies in serving Deaf patients. The study conducted online proxy intervention interviews with 7 primary caregivers via Zoom. Deductive thematic analysis using Nvivo 14 software was performed based on Engeström's Expanded Activity Theory. Primary caregivers perceived the roles and responsibilities of the community pharmacy staff to include using handwritten instructions, practicing patience and respect, accommodating Deaf patients, and using basic sign language. Their experiences and challenges centered on staff’s lack of awareness of Deaf patients’ needs, indispensable presence of primary caregivers as interpreters, and disparities in staff engagement with Deaf and hearing individuals. The enablers that shape the competencies of community pharmacy staff included the presence of visual aids for health education, access to electronic devices, availability of written materials, a separate pharmacy area for the Deaf, availability of interpreters, professional commitment, relational motivation, and support from other stakeholders. On the other hand, barriers were learning and communication obstacles, and lack of Filipino Sign Language Act implementation. Engeström's Expanded Activity Theory provided a comprehensive framework to understand the interactions between primary caregivers and community pharmacy staff in serving Deaf patients. It highlighted areas for improvement to create an inclusive and effective community pharmacy service.

First Advisor

Romeo-Luis F. Ramirez, RPh

Download

Share

COinS