Independent pharmacist prescribing of statins for patients with type 2 diabetes: An analysis of enhanced pharmacist prescriptive authority in Idaho

Abstract

Objectives: This study describes the development and patients' perceptions of a community pharmacist-led, statin-prescribing service for patients with diabetes and aims to identify why patients indicated for statin therapy were not prescribed therapy at the time of pharmacist consultation.

Setting: This pilot service began in 4 community-based Albertsons Companies pharmacies located in western Idaho. Patients eligible for the statin-prescribing service had a current diagnosis of type 2 diabetes, were aged between 40 and 75 years, were currently taking medications to manage their diabetes and had no contraindications to statin therapy.

Practice description: Due to recent law changes in Idaho, pharmacists can now prescribe statins and certain other medications without oversight from a medical provider or the need for a collaborative practice agreement.

Practive innovation: Patients were identified and contacted by their local community pharmacist to discuss the statin-prescribing service. Once statin therapy was initiated, patients completed a brief, 7-question survey regarding their perceptions of the service.

Evaluation: This study evaluated the following: number of patients eligible for the prescribing service, number of patients who received a pharmacist-written statin prescription, and patients' perceptions regarding the service.

Methods: Of the 64 patients screened, 18 (28%) were eligible for statin therapy. Of those eligible, 6 (33%) accepted pharmacist services and 4 patients started statin treatment. Two patients were prescribed a statin by the community pharmacist, whereas the other 2 patients contacted their primary care provider and requested a statin prescription at the pharmacist's recommendation.

Results: Overall, participating patients (n = 4) reported feeling comfortable and satisfied with all aspects of the protocol and their pharmacist's role as a prescriber.

Conclusion: This pilot was the first example of community pharmacists independently prescribing statins outside of the clinic setting. The service could target an important health initiative.