EXPLORING Pharmacists' Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Toward Universal Health Care in Davao City: Drafting for Readiness Enhancement PLAN

Abstract

Universal Health Care is a healthcare model that ensures all Filipinos have access to a comprehensive range of high-quality health services at affordable prices. However, rising drug costs and pharmacy-related challenges have created gaps in the system. This explanatory sequential mixed-methods study was conducted to determine pharmacists' knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding Universal Health Care in Davao City. The respondents were community, hospital, regulatory, and public health pharmacists in Davao City. The data were gathered through a survey using a self-constructed questionnaire, followed by focus group discussions. The quantitative results showed moderate knowledge and practice levels but a high level of attitudes regarding UHC roles. Results of the qualitative phase identified salient findings, including: thorough implementation, poor dissemination of guidelines, collective awareness, gradual awareness, multifaceted challenges, and positive social skills. Data integration resulted in connecting-expansion and connecting-discordance, indicating mutual agreement and conflicts in the quantitative findings. Based on the findings, a draft readiness enhancement plan was recommended, focusing on knowledge and competency, digital health, preventive health roles, regulatory compliance, interdisciplinary collaboration & leadership development.