Exploring pharmacist prescribing practices in general practices for atrial fibrillation in England: a qualitative study using the theoretical domains framework.

Bibliographic Details
Title: Exploring pharmacist prescribing practices in general practices for atrial fibrillation in England: a qualitative study using the theoretical domains framework.
Authors: Sharma R; Department of Pharmacy, School of Applied Sciences, University of Huddersfield, Huddersfield, UK., Hasan SS; Department of Pharmacy, School of Applied Sciences, University of Huddersfield, Huddersfield, UK., Conway BR; Department of Pharmacy, School of Applied Sciences, University of Huddersfield, Huddersfield, UK., Ghori MU; Department of Pharmacy, School of Applied Sciences, University of Huddersfield, Huddersfield, UK. M.Ghori@hud.ac.uk.
Source: International journal of clinical pharmacy [Int J Clin Pharm] 2026 Jun; Vol. 48 (3), pp. 740-750. Date of Electronic Publication: 2025 Dec 10.
Publication Type: Journal Article
Language: English
Journal Info: Publisher: Springer Country of Publication: Netherlands NLM ID: 101554912 Publication Model: Print-Electronic Cited Medium: Internet ISSN: 2210-7711 (Electronic) NLM ISO Abbreviation: Int J Clin Pharm Subsets: MEDLINE
Imprint Name(s): Original Publication: Dordrecht : Springer
MeSH Terms: Atrial Fibrillation*/drug therapy , Atrial Fibrillation*/epidemiology , Pharmacists*/standards , General Practice*/methods , Drug Prescriptions*/standards , Professional Role* , Practice Patterns, Pharmacists'*, England/epidemiology ; Anticoagulants/therapeutic use ; Anticoagulants/administration & dosage ; Humans ; Male ; Female ; Qualitative Research ; Middle Aged ; Adult
Abstract: Introduction: Pharmacist roles in primary care are evolving, with increasing involvement in long-term condition management. An example is their crucial role in the management of atrial fibrillation (AF), particularly in prescribing and monitoring oral anticoagulation therapy. However, their experiences and challenges in this area remain underexplored, particularly within the context of general practice.
Aim: This study aimed to explore the experiences, perceptions, and challenges of independent prescribing pharmacists when managing and prescribing for AF within general practice, using the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) to guide enquiry and analysis.
Method: We conducted a qualitative study underpinned by the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF), which informed both the interview guide and the analytic coding framework. Independent prescribing pharmacists working in general practice in England were purposively recruited via professional networks; eligible participants were patient-facing and had experience prescribing for atrial fibrillation. One-to-one, semi-structured interviews were conducted via Microsoft Teams® in August 2024, audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and returned to participants for checking. Recruitment proceeded until thematic saturation. Two researchers independently applied the framework method, resolved discrepancies by consensus, and mapped final themes to relevant TDF domains.
Results: Twenty pharmacists took part in the study (9 men, 11 women; age 25-52 years), providing perspectives from a range of experience levels. Four overarching themes emerged: (1) confidence and experience in prescribing, (2) perceived role and responsibilities, (3) barriers to effective prescribing, and (4) strategies for effective prescribing. Pharmacists with extensive AF experience demonstrated higher confidence, whereas less experienced pharmacists relied on guidelines and colleagues. Perceived roles ranged from central to supportive within multidisciplinary teams, with some uncertainty about role boundaries. Key barriers included incomplete access to patient records, limited training, and workload pressures. Strategies to support prescribing included continuous professional development, decision support tools, and peer consultation.
Conclusion: The study emphasises the challenges pharmacists encounter in managing AF, highlighting the need for clearer role definitions, improved access to patient data and ongoing peer support. Addressing the identified barriers through targeted interventions could enhance the effectiveness of pharmacist-led AF management in general practice. Future research should evaluate interventions designed to support pharmacists in this evolving role.
(© 2025. The Author(s).)
Competing Interests: Declarations. Conflicts of interest: The authors declare no competing interests. Ethics approval: The study was approved by the School of Applied Sciences Research Integrity and Ethics Committee, University of Huddersfield (reference: SAS-SRIEC-06.08.24–1; approved 06 August 2024). Consent to participate: Written informed consent was obtained from all participants prior to the interviews.
References: Hindricks G, Potpara T, Dagres N, et al. 2020 ESC guidelines for the diagnosis and management of atrial fibrillation developed in collaboration with the European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery (EACTS). Eur Heart J. 2020;42(5):373–498. https://doi.org/10.1093/eurheartj/ehaa612 . (PMID: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehaa612)
Chugh SS, Havmoeller R, Narayanan K, et al. Worldwide epidemiology of atrial fibrillation: a Global Burden of Disease 2010 study. Circulation. 2014;129(8):837–47. https://doi.org/10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.113.005119 . (PMID: 10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.113.00511924345399)
Casselman F, Coca A, De Caterina R, et al. 2016 ESC guidelines for the management of atrial fibrillation developed in collaboration with EACTS. Eur Heart J. 2016;37:2893–962. https://doi.org/10.1093/eurheartj/ehw210 . (PMID: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehw210)
National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). Atrial fibrillation: diagnosis and management. NG196. 2021. Available from: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng196 . Accessed 2 Oct 2024.
NHS England. NHS England’s work on stroke. Available from: https://www.england.nhs.uk/ourwork/clinical-policy/stroke . Accessed 2 Oct 2024.
NHS England. NHS Long Term Plan: cardiovascular disease. Available from: https://www.longtermplan.nhs.uk/areas-of-work/cardiovascular-disease . Accessed 2 Oct 2024.
Barber M, Brennan K, Dennis M, et al. Scottish Stroke Improvement Programme. 2018. Available from: https://www.strokeaudit.scot.nhs.uk/Publications/docs/2018-07-10-SSCA-Report.pdf . Accessed 2 Oct 2024.
Al-Khatib SM, Pokorney SD, Al-Khalidi HR, et al. Underuse of oral anticoagulants in privately insured patients with atrial fibrillation: the IMPACT-Afib trial cohort. Am Heart J. 2020;229:110–7. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ahj.2020.07.012 . (PMID: 10.1016/j.ahj.2020.07.012329499868276627)
Park S, Je NK. Underutilization of anticoagulants in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation in the era of non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants. Int J Arrhythm. 2022;23(1):1–8. https://doi.org/10.1186/s42444-021-00053-9 . (PMID: 10.1186/s42444-021-00053-9)
Lip GY, Keshishian AV, Zhang Y, et al. Oral anticoagulants for nonvalvular atrial fibrillation in patients with high risk of gastrointestinal bleeding. JAMA Netw Open. 2021;4(8):e2120064. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2021.20064 . (PMID: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2021.20064343982048369361)
Grymonprez M, Steurbaut S, De Backer TL, et al. Effectiveness and safety of oral anticoagulants in older patients with atrial fibrillation: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Pharmacol. 2020;11:583311. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2020.583311 . (PMID: 10.3389/fphar.2020.583311330134227509201)
Anderson C, Zhan K, Boyd M, et al. The role of pharmacists in general practice: a realist review. Res Social Adm Pharm. 2019;15(4):338–45. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sapharm.2018.06.001 . (PMID: 10.1016/j.sapharm.2018.06.00129907317)
Mills T, Patel N, Ryan K. Pharmacist non-medical prescribing in primary care: a systematic review of views, opinions and attitudes. Int J Clin Pract. 2021;75(3):e13827. https://doi.org/10.1111/ijcp.13827 . (PMID: 10.1111/ijcp.1382733169464)
NHS England. NHS long term workforce plan. London: NHS England; 2023. Available from: https://www.england.nhs.uk/publication/nhs-long-term-workforce-plan/ . Accessed 2 Oct 2024.
NHS England, British Medical Association. Investment and evolution: a five-year framework for GP contract reform to implement the NHS Long Term Plan. 2019. Available from: https://www.england.nhs.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/gp-contract-2019.pdf . Accessed 2 Oct 2024.
NHS Digital. Primary Care Network workforce, 30 June 2024. 2024. Available from: https://digital.nhs.uk/data-and-information/publications/statistical/primary-care-network-workforce/30-june-2024 . Accessed 2 Oct 2024.
Chopra E, Choudhary T, Hazen A, et al. Clinical pharmacists in primary care general practices: evaluation of current workforce and their distribution. J Pharm Policy Pract. 2022. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40545-022-00483-3 . (PMID: 10.1186/s40545-022-00483-3364947619733025)
Veale EL. Pharmacy-led management of atrial fibrillation: improving treatment adherence and patient outcomes. Integr Pharm Res Pract. 2024. https://doi.org/10.2147/IPRP.S397844 . (PMID: 10.2147/IPRP.S3978443910100511297543)
Bush J, Langley CA, Jenkins D, et al. Clinical pharmacists in general practice: an initial evaluation of activity in one English primary care organisation. Int J Pharm Pract. 2018;26(6):501–6. https://doi.org/10.1111/ijpp.12426 . (PMID: 10.1111/ijpp.1242629280513)
NHS England. Network Contract Directed Enhanced Service: structured medication reviews and medicines optimisation – guidance. 2020. Available from: https://www.england.nhs.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/SMR-Spec-Guidance-2020-21-FINAL-.pdf . Accessed 2 Oct 2024.
Sharma R, Hasan SS, Gilkar IA, et al. Pharmacist-led interventions in optimising the use of oral anticoagulants in patients with atrial fibrillation in general practice in England: a retrospective observational study. BJGP Open. 2024. https://doi.org/10.3399/BJGPO.2023.0113 . (PMID: 10.3399/BJGPO.2023.01133809726911300970)
Kefale B, Peterson GM, Mirkazemi C, et al. The effect of pharmacist-led interventions on the appropriateness and clinical outcomes of anticoagulant therapy: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Euro Heart J Quality Care Clin Outcomes. 2024;10(6):488–506. https://doi.org/10.1093/ehjqcco/qcae045 . (PMID: 10.1093/ehjqcco/qcae045)
Al-Arkee S, Mason J, Lindenmeyer A, et al. Pharmacist management of atrial fibrillation in UK primary care: a qualitative study. J Pharm Policy Pract. 2022;15(1):98. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40545-022-00486-0 . (PMID: 10.1186/s40545-022-00486-0364947399733171)
Savickas V, Veale EL, Bhamra SK, et al. Pharmacists detecting atrial fibrillation in general practice: a qualitative focus group study. BJGP Open. 2020. https://doi.org/10.3399/bjgpopen20X101042 . (PMID: 10.3399/bjgpopen20X101042325765747465581)
Hemenway AN, Meyer-Junco L, Zobeck B, et al. Utilizing social and behavioral change methods in clinical pharmacy initiatives. J Am Coll Clin Pharm. 2022;5(4):450–8. (PMID: 10.1002/jac5.1593)
Jamil N, Zainal ZA, Alias SH, et al. A systematic review of behaviour change techniques in pharmacist-delivered self-management interventions towards patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Res Social Adm Pharm. 2023;19(8):1131–45. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sapharm.2023.05.006 . (PMID: 10.1016/j.sapharm.2023.05.00637202279)
Skivington K, Matthews L, Simpson SA, et al. A new framework for developing and evaluating complex interventions: update of Medical Research Council guidance. Br Med J. 2021;374:n2061. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.n2061 . (PMID: 10.1136/bmj.n2061)
Little EA, Presseau J, Eccles MP. Understanding effects in reviews of implementation interventions using the theoretical domains framework. Implement Sci. 2015;10:90. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13012-015-0280-7 . (PMID: 10.1186/s13012-015-0280-7260821364469259)
Tong A, Sainsbury P, Craig J. Consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research (COREQ): a 32-item checklist for interviews and focus groups. Int J Qual Health Care. 2007;19(6):349–57. https://doi.org/10.1093/intqhc/mzm042 . (PMID: 10.1093/intqhc/mzm04217872937)
Vasileiou K, Barnett J, Thorpe S, et al. Characterising and justifying sample size sufficiency in interview-based studies: systematic analysis of qualitative health research over a 15-year period. BMC Med Res Methodol. 2018;18:148. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12874-018-0594-7 . (PMID: 10.1186/s12874-018-0594-7304635156249736)
Francis JJ, Johnston M, Robertson C, et al. What is an adequate sample size? Operationalising data saturation for theory-based interview studies. Psychol Health. 2010;25(10):1229–45. https://doi.org/10.1080/08870440903194015 . (PMID: 10.1080/0887044090319401520204937)
Francis JJ, O’Connor D, Curran J. Theories of behaviour change synthesised into a set of theoretical groupings: introducing a thematic series on the theoretical domains framework. Implement Sci. 2012;7:35. https://doi.org/10.1186/1748-5908-7-35 . (PMID: 10.1186/1748-5908-7-35225316013444902)
Atkins L, Francis J, Islam R, et al. A guide to using the Theoretical Domains Framework of behaviour change to investigate implementation problems. Implement Sci. 2017;12:77. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13012-017-0605-9 . (PMID: 10.1186/s13012-017-0605-9286374865480145)
Shenton AK. Strategies for ensuring trustworthiness in qualitative research projects. Educ Inf. 2004;22(2):63–75. https://doi.org/10.3233/EFI-2004-22201 . (PMID: 10.3233/EFI-2004-22201)
Ritchie LA, Penson PE, Akpan A, et al. Integrated care for atrial fibrillation management: the role of the pharmacist. Am J Med. 2022;135(12):1410–26. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.amjmed.2022.07.014 . (PMID: 10.1016/j.amjmed.2022.07.01436002045)
Tan EC, Stewart K, Elliott RA, et al. Pharmacist services provided in general practice clinics: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Res Social Adm Pharm. 2014;10(4):608–22. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sapharm.2013.08.006 . (PMID: 10.1016/j.sapharm.2013.08.00624161491)
Shaw A, de Lusignan S, Rowlands G. Do primary care professionals work as a team? A qualitative study. J Interprof Care. 2005;19(4):396–405. https://doi.org/10.1080/13561820500053454 . (PMID: 10.1080/1356182050005345416076600)
Leggett N, Emery K, Rollinson TC, et al. Fragmentation of care between intensive and primary care settings and opportunities for improvement. Thorax. 2023;78(12):1181–7. https://doi.org/10.1136/thorax-2023-220387 . (PMID: 10.1136/thorax-2023-22038737620046)
Joo JY. Fragmented care and chronic illness patient outcomes: a systematic review. Nurs Open. 2023;10(6):3460–73. https://doi.org/10.1002/nop2.1607 . (PMID: 10.1002/nop2.16073662295210170908)
Davidson L, Scott J, Forster N. Patient experiences of integrated care within the United Kingdom: a systematic review. Int J Care Coord. 2021;24(2):39–56. https://doi.org/10.1177/20534345211004503 . (PMID: 10.1177/20534345211004503)
Hobbs FDR, Bankhead C, Mukhtar T, et al. Clinical workload in UK primary care: a retrospective analysis of 100 million consultations in England, 2007–14. Lancet. 2016;387(10035):2323–33. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(16)00620-6 . (PMID: 10.1016/S0140-6736(16)00620-6270598884899422)
Lau R, Stevenson F, Ong BN, et al. Achieving change in primary care—causes of the evidence to practice gap: systematic reviews of reviews. Implement Sci. 2016;11:40. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13012-016-0396-4 . (PMID: 10.1186/s13012-016-0396-4270011074802575)
Grant Information: Reference: 0093-102021 Health Education England and City Health Bradford GP Federation for financial support
Contributed Indexing: Keywords: Anticoagulants; Atrial Fibrillation; England; Pharmacists; Prescribing; Primary Health Care; Qualitative Research
Substance Nomenclature: 0 (Anticoagulants)
Entry Date(s): Date Created: 20251210 Date Completed: 20260514 Latest Revision: 20260517
Update Code: 20260517
PubMed Central ID: PMC13176180
DOI: 10.1007/s11096-025-02062-3
PMID: 41369786
Database: MEDLINE
FullText Links:
  – Type: other
    Url: https://resolver.ebsco.com:443/public/rma-ftfapi/ejs/direct?AccessToken=41338BF5FC2E18AF92C4&Show=Object
Text:
  Availability: 0
CustomLinks:
  – Url: https://dx.doi.org/doi:10.1007/s11096-025-02062-3
    Name: EDS - Springer Nature Journals (s7799221)
    Category: fullText
    Text: View record at Springer
Header DbId: cmedm
DbLabel: MEDLINE
An: 41369786
AccessLevel: 3
PubType: Academic Journal
PubTypeId: academicJournal
PreciseRelevancyScore: 0
IllustrationInfo
Items – Name: Title
  Label: Title
  Group: Ti
  Data: Exploring pharmacist prescribing practices in general practices for atrial fibrillation in England: a qualitative study using the theoretical domains framework.
– Name: Author
  Label: Authors
  Group: Au
  Data: <searchLink fieldCode="AU" term="%22Sharma+R%22">Sharma R</searchLink>; Department of Pharmacy, School of Applied Sciences, University of Huddersfield, Huddersfield, UK.<br /><searchLink fieldCode="AU" term="%22Hasan+SS%22">Hasan SS</searchLink>; Department of Pharmacy, School of Applied Sciences, University of Huddersfield, Huddersfield, UK.<br /><searchLink fieldCode="AU" term="%22Conway+BR%22">Conway BR</searchLink>; Department of Pharmacy, School of Applied Sciences, University of Huddersfield, Huddersfield, UK.<br /><searchLink fieldCode="AU" term="%22Ghori+MU%22">Ghori MU</searchLink>; Department of Pharmacy, School of Applied Sciences, University of Huddersfield, Huddersfield, UK. M.Ghori@hud.ac.uk.
– Name: TitleSource
  Label: Source
  Group: Src
  Data: <searchLink fieldCode="JN" term="%22101554912%22">International journal of clinical pharmacy</searchLink> [Int J Clin Pharm] 2026 Jun; Vol. 48 (3), pp. 740-750. <i>Date of Electronic Publication: </i>2025 Dec 10.
– Name: TypePub
  Label: Publication Type
  Group: TypPub
  Data: Journal Article
– Name: Language
  Label: Language
  Group: Lang
  Data: English
– Name: TitleSource
  Label: Journal Info
  Group: Src
  Data: <i>Publisher: </i><searchLink fieldCode="PB" term="%22Springer%22">Springer </searchLink><i>Country of Publication: </i>Netherlands <i>NLM ID: </i>101554912 <i>Publication Model: </i>Print-Electronic <i>Cited Medium: </i>Internet <i>ISSN: </i>2210-7711 (Electronic) <i>NLM ISO Abbreviation: </i>Int J Clin Pharm <i>Subsets: </i>MEDLINE
– Name: PublisherInfo
  Label: Imprint Name(s)
  Group: PubInfo
  Data: <i>Original Publication</i>: Dordrecht : Springer
– Name: SubjectMESH
  Label: MeSH Terms
  Group: Su
  Data: <searchLink fieldCode="MM" term="%22Atrial+Fibrillation%22">Atrial Fibrillation*</searchLink>/<searchLink fieldCode="MM" term="%22Atrial+Fibrillation+drug+therapy%22">drug therapy</searchLink> <br /><searchLink fieldCode="MM" term="%22Atrial+Fibrillation%22">Atrial Fibrillation*</searchLink>/<searchLink fieldCode="MM" term="%22Atrial+Fibrillation+epidemiology%22">epidemiology</searchLink> <br /><searchLink fieldCode="MM" term="%22Pharmacists%22">Pharmacists*</searchLink>/<searchLink fieldCode="MM" term="%22Pharmacists+standards%22">standards</searchLink> <br /><searchLink fieldCode="MM" term="%22General+Practice%22">General Practice*</searchLink>/<searchLink fieldCode="MM" term="%22General+Practice+methods%22">methods</searchLink> <br /><searchLink fieldCode="MM" term="%22Drug+Prescriptions%22">Drug Prescriptions*</searchLink>/<searchLink fieldCode="MM" term="%22Drug+Prescriptions+standards%22">standards</searchLink> <br /><searchLink fieldCode="MM" term="%22Professional+Role%22">Professional Role*</searchLink> <br /><searchLink fieldCode="MM" term="%22Practice+Patterns%2C+Pharmacists'%22">Practice Patterns, Pharmacists'*</searchLink><br /><searchLink fieldCode="MH" term="%22England%22">England</searchLink>/<searchLink fieldCode="MH" term="%22England+epidemiology%22">epidemiology</searchLink> ; <searchLink fieldCode="MH" term="%22Anticoagulants%22">Anticoagulants</searchLink>/<searchLink fieldCode="MH" term="%22Anticoagulants+therapeutic+use%22">therapeutic use</searchLink> ; <searchLink fieldCode="MH" term="%22Anticoagulants%22">Anticoagulants</searchLink>/<searchLink fieldCode="MH" term="%22Anticoagulants+administration+%26+dosage%22">administration & dosage</searchLink> ; <searchLink fieldCode="MH" term="%22Humans%22">Humans</searchLink> ; <searchLink fieldCode="MH" term="%22Male%22">Male</searchLink> ; <searchLink fieldCode="MH" term="%22Female%22">Female</searchLink> ; <searchLink fieldCode="MH" term="%22Qualitative+Research%22">Qualitative Research</searchLink> ; <searchLink fieldCode="MH" term="%22Middle+Aged%22">Middle Aged</searchLink> ; <searchLink fieldCode="MH" term="%22Adult%22">Adult</searchLink>
– Name: Abstract
  Label: Abstract
  Group: Ab
  Data: Introduction: Pharmacist roles in primary care are evolving, with increasing involvement in long-term condition management. An example is their crucial role in the management of atrial fibrillation (AF), particularly in prescribing and monitoring oral anticoagulation therapy. However, their experiences and challenges in this area remain underexplored, particularly within the context of general practice.<br />Aim: This study aimed to explore the experiences, perceptions, and challenges of independent prescribing pharmacists when managing and prescribing for AF within general practice, using the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) to guide enquiry and analysis.<br />Method: We conducted a qualitative study underpinned by the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF), which informed both the interview guide and the analytic coding framework. Independent prescribing pharmacists working in general practice in England were purposively recruited via professional networks; eligible participants were patient-facing and had experience prescribing for atrial fibrillation. One-to-one, semi-structured interviews were conducted via Microsoft Teams® in August 2024, audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and returned to participants for checking. Recruitment proceeded until thematic saturation. Two researchers independently applied the framework method, resolved discrepancies by consensus, and mapped final themes to relevant TDF domains.<br />Results: Twenty pharmacists took part in the study (9 men, 11 women; age 25-52 years), providing perspectives from a range of experience levels. Four overarching themes emerged: (1) confidence and experience in prescribing, (2) perceived role and responsibilities, (3) barriers to effective prescribing, and (4) strategies for effective prescribing. Pharmacists with extensive AF experience demonstrated higher confidence, whereas less experienced pharmacists relied on guidelines and colleagues. Perceived roles ranged from central to supportive within multidisciplinary teams, with some uncertainty about role boundaries. Key barriers included incomplete access to patient records, limited training, and workload pressures. Strategies to support prescribing included continuous professional development, decision support tools, and peer consultation.<br />Conclusion: The study emphasises the challenges pharmacists encounter in managing AF, highlighting the need for clearer role definitions, improved access to patient data and ongoing peer support. Addressing the identified barriers through targeted interventions could enhance the effectiveness of pharmacist-led AF management in general practice. Future research should evaluate interventions designed to support pharmacists in this evolving role.<br /> (© 2025. The Author(s).)
– Name: Abstract
  Label: Competing Interests
  Group: Ab
  Data: Declarations. Conflicts of interest: The authors declare no competing interests. Ethics approval: The study was approved by the School of Applied Sciences Research Integrity and Ethics Committee, University of Huddersfield (reference: SAS-SRIEC-06.08.24–1; approved 06 August 2024). Consent to participate: Written informed consent was obtained from all participants prior to the interviews.
– Name: Ref
  Label: References
  Group: RefInfo
  Data: Hindricks G, Potpara T, Dagres N, et al. 2020 ESC guidelines for the diagnosis and management of atrial fibrillation developed in collaboration with the European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery (EACTS). Eur Heart J. 2020;42(5):373–498. https://doi.org/10.1093/eurheartj/ehaa612 . (PMID: <searchLink fieldCode="PM" term="%2210%2E1093%2Feurheartj%2Fehaa612%22">10.1093/eurheartj/ehaa612)</searchLink><br />Chugh SS, Havmoeller R, Narayanan K, et al. Worldwide epidemiology of atrial fibrillation: a Global Burden of Disease 2010 study. Circulation. 2014;129(8):837–47. https://doi.org/10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.113.005119 . (PMID: <searchLink fieldCode="PM" term="%2210%2E1161%2FCIRCULATIONAHA%2E113%2E00511924345399%22">10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.113.00511924345399)</searchLink><br />Casselman F, Coca A, De Caterina R, et al. 2016 ESC guidelines for the management of atrial fibrillation developed in collaboration with EACTS. Eur Heart J. 2016;37:2893–962. https://doi.org/10.1093/eurheartj/ehw210 . (PMID: <searchLink fieldCode="PM" term="%2210%2E1093%2Feurheartj%2Fehw210%22">10.1093/eurheartj/ehw210)</searchLink><br />National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). Atrial fibrillation: diagnosis and management. NG196. 2021. Available from: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng196 . Accessed 2 Oct 2024.<br />NHS England. NHS England’s work on stroke. Available from: https://www.england.nhs.uk/ourwork/clinical-policy/stroke . Accessed 2 Oct 2024.<br />NHS England. NHS Long Term Plan: cardiovascular disease. Available from: https://www.longtermplan.nhs.uk/areas-of-work/cardiovascular-disease . Accessed 2 Oct 2024.<br />Barber M, Brennan K, Dennis M, et al. Scottish Stroke Improvement Programme. 2018. Available from: https://www.strokeaudit.scot.nhs.uk/Publications/docs/2018-07-10-SSCA-Report.pdf . Accessed 2 Oct 2024.<br />Al-Khatib SM, Pokorney SD, Al-Khalidi HR, et al. Underuse of oral anticoagulants in privately insured patients with atrial fibrillation: the IMPACT-Afib trial cohort. Am Heart J. 2020;229:110–7. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ahj.2020.07.012 . (PMID: <searchLink fieldCode="PM" term="%2210%2E1016%2Fj%2Eahj%2E2020%2E07%2E012329499868276627%22">10.1016/j.ahj.2020.07.012329499868276627)</searchLink><br />Park S, Je NK. Underutilization of anticoagulants in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation in the era of non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants. Int J Arrhythm. 2022;23(1):1–8. https://doi.org/10.1186/s42444-021-00053-9 . (PMID: <searchLink fieldCode="PM" term="%2210%2E1186%2Fs42444-021-00053-9%22">10.1186/s42444-021-00053-9)</searchLink><br />Lip GY, Keshishian AV, Zhang Y, et al. Oral anticoagulants for nonvalvular atrial fibrillation in patients with high risk of gastrointestinal bleeding. JAMA Netw Open. 2021;4(8):e2120064. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2021.20064 . (PMID: <searchLink fieldCode="PM" term="%2210%2E1001%2Fjamanetworkopen%2E2021%2E20064343982048369361%22">10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2021.20064343982048369361)</searchLink><br />Grymonprez M, Steurbaut S, De Backer TL, et al. Effectiveness and safety of oral anticoagulants in older patients with atrial fibrillation: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Pharmacol. 2020;11:583311. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2020.583311 . (PMID: <searchLink fieldCode="PM" term="%2210%2E3389%2Ffphar%2E2020%2E583311330134227509201%22">10.3389/fphar.2020.583311330134227509201)</searchLink><br />Anderson C, Zhan K, Boyd M, et al. The role of pharmacists in general practice: a realist review. Res Social Adm Pharm. 2019;15(4):338–45. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sapharm.2018.06.001 . (PMID: <searchLink fieldCode="PM" term="%2210%2E1016%2Fj%2Esapharm%2E2018%2E06%2E00129907317%22">10.1016/j.sapharm.2018.06.00129907317)</searchLink><br />Mills T, Patel N, Ryan K. Pharmacist non-medical prescribing in primary care: a systematic review of views, opinions and attitudes. Int J Clin Pract. 2021;75(3):e13827. https://doi.org/10.1111/ijcp.13827 . (PMID: <searchLink fieldCode="PM" term="%2210%2E1111%2Fijcp%2E1382733169464%22">10.1111/ijcp.1382733169464)</searchLink><br />NHS England. NHS long term workforce plan. London: NHS England; 2023. Available from: https://www.england.nhs.uk/publication/nhs-long-term-workforce-plan/ . Accessed 2 Oct 2024.<br />NHS England, British Medical Association. Investment and evolution: a five-year framework for GP contract reform to implement the NHS Long Term Plan. 2019. Available from: https://www.england.nhs.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/gp-contract-2019.pdf . Accessed 2 Oct 2024.<br />NHS Digital. Primary Care Network workforce, 30 June 2024. 2024. Available from: https://digital.nhs.uk/data-and-information/publications/statistical/primary-care-network-workforce/30-june-2024 . Accessed 2 Oct 2024.<br />Chopra E, Choudhary T, Hazen A, et al. Clinical pharmacists in primary care general practices: evaluation of current workforce and their distribution. J Pharm Policy Pract. 2022. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40545-022-00483-3 . (PMID: <searchLink fieldCode="PM" term="%2210%2E1186%2Fs40545-022-00483-3364947619733025%22">10.1186/s40545-022-00483-3364947619733025)</searchLink><br />Veale EL. Pharmacy-led management of atrial fibrillation: improving treatment adherence and patient outcomes. Integr Pharm Res Pract. 2024. https://doi.org/10.2147/IPRP.S397844 . (PMID: <searchLink fieldCode="PM" term="%2210%2E2147%2FIPRP%2ES3978443910100511297543%22">10.2147/IPRP.S3978443910100511297543)</searchLink><br />Bush J, Langley CA, Jenkins D, et al. Clinical pharmacists in general practice: an initial evaluation of activity in one English primary care organisation. Int J Pharm Pract. 2018;26(6):501–6. https://doi.org/10.1111/ijpp.12426 . (PMID: <searchLink fieldCode="PM" term="%2210%2E1111%2Fijpp%2E1242629280513%22">10.1111/ijpp.1242629280513)</searchLink><br />NHS England. Network Contract Directed Enhanced Service: structured medication reviews and medicines optimisation – guidance. 2020. Available from: https://www.england.nhs.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/SMR-Spec-Guidance-2020-21-FINAL-.pdf . Accessed 2 Oct 2024.<br />Sharma R, Hasan SS, Gilkar IA, et al. Pharmacist-led interventions in optimising the use of oral anticoagulants in patients with atrial fibrillation in general practice in England: a retrospective observational study. BJGP Open. 2024. https://doi.org/10.3399/BJGPO.2023.0113 . (PMID: <searchLink fieldCode="PM" term="%2210%2E3399%2FBJGPO%2E2023%2E01133809726911300970%22">10.3399/BJGPO.2023.01133809726911300970)</searchLink><br />Kefale B, Peterson GM, Mirkazemi C, et al. The effect of pharmacist-led interventions on the appropriateness and clinical outcomes of anticoagulant therapy: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Euro Heart J Quality Care Clin Outcomes. 2024;10(6):488–506. https://doi.org/10.1093/ehjqcco/qcae045 . (PMID: <searchLink fieldCode="PM" term="%2210%2E1093%2Fehjqcco%2Fqcae045%22">10.1093/ehjqcco/qcae045)</searchLink><br />Al-Arkee S, Mason J, Lindenmeyer A, et al. Pharmacist management of atrial fibrillation in UK primary care: a qualitative study. J Pharm Policy Pract. 2022;15(1):98. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40545-022-00486-0 . (PMID: <searchLink fieldCode="PM" term="%2210%2E1186%2Fs40545-022-00486-0364947399733171%22">10.1186/s40545-022-00486-0364947399733171)</searchLink><br />Savickas V, Veale EL, Bhamra SK, et al. Pharmacists detecting atrial fibrillation in general practice: a qualitative focus group study. BJGP Open. 2020. https://doi.org/10.3399/bjgpopen20X101042 . (PMID: <searchLink fieldCode="PM" term="%2210%2E3399%2Fbjgpopen20X101042325765747465581%22">10.3399/bjgpopen20X101042325765747465581)</searchLink><br />Hemenway AN, Meyer-Junco L, Zobeck B, et al. Utilizing social and behavioral change methods in clinical pharmacy initiatives. J Am Coll Clin Pharm. 2022;5(4):450–8. (PMID: <searchLink fieldCode="PM" term="%2210%2E1002%2Fjac5%2E1593%22">10.1002/jac5.1593)</searchLink><br />Jamil N, Zainal ZA, Alias SH, et al. A systematic review of behaviour change techniques in pharmacist-delivered self-management interventions towards patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Res Social Adm Pharm. 2023;19(8):1131–45. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sapharm.2023.05.006 . (PMID: <searchLink fieldCode="PM" term="%2210%2E1016%2Fj%2Esapharm%2E2023%2E05%2E00637202279%22">10.1016/j.sapharm.2023.05.00637202279)</searchLink><br />Skivington K, Matthews L, Simpson SA, et al. A new framework for developing and evaluating complex interventions: update of Medical Research Council guidance. Br Med J. 2021;374:n2061. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.n2061 . (PMID: <searchLink fieldCode="PM" term="%2210%2E1136%2Fbmj%2En2061%22">10.1136/bmj.n2061)</searchLink><br />Little EA, Presseau J, Eccles MP. Understanding effects in reviews of implementation interventions using the theoretical domains framework. Implement Sci. 2015;10:90. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13012-015-0280-7 . (PMID: <searchLink fieldCode="PM" term="%2210%2E1186%2Fs13012-015-0280-7260821364469259%22">10.1186/s13012-015-0280-7260821364469259)</searchLink><br />Tong A, Sainsbury P, Craig J. Consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research (COREQ): a 32-item checklist for interviews and focus groups. Int J Qual Health Care. 2007;19(6):349–57. https://doi.org/10.1093/intqhc/mzm042 . (PMID: <searchLink fieldCode="PM" term="%2210%2E1093%2Fintqhc%2Fmzm04217872937%22">10.1093/intqhc/mzm04217872937)</searchLink><br />Vasileiou K, Barnett J, Thorpe S, et al. Characterising and justifying sample size sufficiency in interview-based studies: systematic analysis of qualitative health research over a 15-year period. BMC Med Res Methodol. 2018;18:148. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12874-018-0594-7 . (PMID: <searchLink fieldCode="PM" term="%2210%2E1186%2Fs12874-018-0594-7304635156249736%22">10.1186/s12874-018-0594-7304635156249736)</searchLink><br />Francis JJ, Johnston M, Robertson C, et al. What is an adequate sample size? Operationalising data saturation for theory-based interview studies. Psychol Health. 2010;25(10):1229–45. https://doi.org/10.1080/08870440903194015 . (PMID: <searchLink fieldCode="PM" term="%2210%2E1080%2F0887044090319401520204937%22">10.1080/0887044090319401520204937)</searchLink><br />Francis JJ, O’Connor D, Curran J. Theories of behaviour change synthesised into a set of theoretical groupings: introducing a thematic series on the theoretical domains framework. Implement Sci. 2012;7:35. https://doi.org/10.1186/1748-5908-7-35 . (PMID: <searchLink fieldCode="PM" term="%2210%2E1186%2F1748-5908-7-35225316013444902%22">10.1186/1748-5908-7-35225316013444902)</searchLink><br />Atkins L, Francis J, Islam R, et al. A guide to using the Theoretical Domains Framework of behaviour change to investigate implementation problems. Implement Sci. 2017;12:77. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13012-017-0605-9 . (PMID: <searchLink fieldCode="PM" term="%2210%2E1186%2Fs13012-017-0605-9286374865480145%22">10.1186/s13012-017-0605-9286374865480145)</searchLink><br />Shenton AK. Strategies for ensuring trustworthiness in qualitative research projects. Educ Inf. 2004;22(2):63–75. https://doi.org/10.3233/EFI-2004-22201 . (PMID: <searchLink fieldCode="PM" term="%2210%2E3233%2FEFI-2004-22201%22">10.3233/EFI-2004-22201)</searchLink><br />Ritchie LA, Penson PE, Akpan A, et al. Integrated care for atrial fibrillation management: the role of the pharmacist. Am J Med. 2022;135(12):1410–26. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.amjmed.2022.07.014 . (PMID: <searchLink fieldCode="PM" term="%2210%2E1016%2Fj%2Eamjmed%2E2022%2E07%2E01436002045%22">10.1016/j.amjmed.2022.07.01436002045)</searchLink><br />Tan EC, Stewart K, Elliott RA, et al. Pharmacist services provided in general practice clinics: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Res Social Adm Pharm. 2014;10(4):608–22. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sapharm.2013.08.006 . (PMID: <searchLink fieldCode="PM" term="%2210%2E1016%2Fj%2Esapharm%2E2013%2E08%2E00624161491%22">10.1016/j.sapharm.2013.08.00624161491)</searchLink><br />Shaw A, de Lusignan S, Rowlands G. Do primary care professionals work as a team? A qualitative study. J Interprof Care. 2005;19(4):396–405. https://doi.org/10.1080/13561820500053454 . (PMID: <searchLink fieldCode="PM" term="%2210%2E1080%2F1356182050005345416076600%22">10.1080/1356182050005345416076600)</searchLink><br />Leggett N, Emery K, Rollinson TC, et al. Fragmentation of care between intensive and primary care settings and opportunities for improvement. Thorax. 2023;78(12):1181–7. https://doi.org/10.1136/thorax-2023-220387 . (PMID: <searchLink fieldCode="PM" term="%2210%2E1136%2Fthorax-2023-22038737620046%22">10.1136/thorax-2023-22038737620046)</searchLink><br />Joo JY. Fragmented care and chronic illness patient outcomes: a systematic review. Nurs Open. 2023;10(6):3460–73. https://doi.org/10.1002/nop2.1607 . (PMID: <searchLink fieldCode="PM" term="%2210%2E1002%2Fnop2%2E16073662295210170908%22">10.1002/nop2.16073662295210170908)</searchLink><br />Davidson L, Scott J, Forster N. Patient experiences of integrated care within the United Kingdom: a systematic review. Int J Care Coord. 2021;24(2):39–56. https://doi.org/10.1177/20534345211004503 . (PMID: <searchLink fieldCode="PM" term="%2210%2E1177%2F20534345211004503%22">10.1177/20534345211004503)</searchLink><br />Hobbs FDR, Bankhead C, Mukhtar T, et al. Clinical workload in UK primary care: a retrospective analysis of 100 million consultations in England, 2007–14. Lancet. 2016;387(10035):2323–33. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(16)00620-6 . (PMID: <searchLink fieldCode="PM" term="%2210%2E1016%2FS0140-6736%2816%2900620-6270598884899422%22">10.1016/S0140-6736(16)00620-6270598884899422)</searchLink><br />Lau R, Stevenson F, Ong BN, et al. Achieving change in primary care—causes of the evidence to practice gap: systematic reviews of reviews. Implement Sci. 2016;11:40. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13012-016-0396-4 . (PMID: <searchLink fieldCode="PM" term="%2210%2E1186%2Fs13012-016-0396-4270011074802575%22">10.1186/s13012-016-0396-4270011074802575)</searchLink>
– Name: GrantInfo
  Label: Grant Information
  Group: Grant
  Data: Reference: 0093-102021 Health Education England and City Health Bradford GP Federation for financial support
– Name: SubjectMinor
  Label: Contributed Indexing
  Group:
  Data: <i>Keywords: </i>Anticoagulants; Atrial Fibrillation; England; Pharmacists; Prescribing; Primary Health Care; Qualitative Research
– Name: NumberCAS
  Label: Substance Nomenclature
  Group: ID
  Data: 0 (Anticoagulants)
– Name: DateEntry
  Label: Entry Date(s)
  Group: Date
  Data: <i>Date Created: </i>20251210 <i>Date Completed: </i>20260514 <i>Latest Revision: </i>20260517
– Name: DateUpdate
  Label: Update Code
  Group: Date
  Data: 20260517
– Name: PubmedCentralID
  Label: PubMed Central ID
  Group: ID
  Data: PMC13176180
– Name: DOI
  Label: DOI
  Group: ID
  Data: 10.1007/s11096-025-02062-3
– Name: AN
  Label: PMID
  Group: ID
  Data: 41369786
PLink https://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&site=eds-live&db=cmedm&AN=41369786
RecordInfo BibRecord:
  BibEntity:
    Identifiers:
      – Type: doi
        Value: 10.1007/s11096-025-02062-3
    Languages:
      – Code: eng
        Text: English
    PhysicalDescription:
      Pagination:
        StartPage: 740
    Subjects:
      – SubjectFull: England epidemiology
        Type: general
      – SubjectFull: Anticoagulants therapeutic use
        Type: general
      – SubjectFull: Anticoagulants administration & dosage
        Type: general
      – SubjectFull: Humans
        Type: general
      – SubjectFull: Male
        Type: general
      – SubjectFull: Female
        Type: general
      – SubjectFull: Qualitative Research
        Type: general
      – SubjectFull: Middle Aged
        Type: general
      – SubjectFull: Adult
        Type: general
      – SubjectFull: Atrial Fibrillation drug therapy
        Type: general
      – SubjectFull: Atrial Fibrillation epidemiology
        Type: general
      – SubjectFull: Pharmacists standards
        Type: general
      – SubjectFull: General Practice methods
        Type: general
      – SubjectFull: Drug Prescriptions standards
        Type: general
      – SubjectFull: Professional Role
        Type: general
      – SubjectFull: Practice Patterns, Pharmacists'
        Type: general
    Titles:
      – TitleFull: Exploring pharmacist prescribing practices in general practices for atrial fibrillation in England: a qualitative study using the theoretical domains framework.
        Type: main
  BibRelationships:
    HasContributorRelationships:
      – PersonEntity:
          Name:
            NameFull: Sharma R
      – PersonEntity:
          Name:
            NameFull: Hasan SS
      – PersonEntity:
          Name:
            NameFull: Conway BR
      – PersonEntity:
          Name:
            NameFull: Ghori MU
    IsPartOfRelationships:
      – BibEntity:
          Dates:
            – D: 01
              M: 06
              Text: 2026 Jun
              Type: published
              Y: 2026
          Identifiers:
            – Type: issn-electronic
              Value: 2210-7711
          Numbering:
            – Type: volume
              Value: 48
            – Type: issue
              Value: 3
          Titles:
            – TitleFull: International journal of clinical pharmacy
              Type: main
ResultId 1