Discovering the Lived Experiences of Filipino Immunizing Pharmacists in the Philippines during the Covid-19 Pandemic: A Qualitative Study
Keywords:
COVID-19, Immunization, Immunizing pharmacist certification program, Lived experiences, Pharmacists, Philippines, Phenomenological, QualitativeAbstract
Background: Immunization is a cornerstone of public health, preventing infectious diseases and their complications. As pharmacists, we play a crucial role in disease prevention by advocating for the importance of immunizations and administering them. Such activities rely on the preventive aspects of pharmaceutical care.
Objectives: Evaluating the lived experience, challenges, issues, coping mechanisms, and recommendations of certified Filipino Immunizing Pharmacists in the Philippines during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Methods: The research method employed in this study is a qualitative design, specifically phenomenological inquiry. It was used to gather data on the personal perspectives and lived experiences of certified Filipino Immunizing Pharmacists in the Philippines during the COVID-19 pandemic. Individual in-depth interviews and focus group discussions were used to collect data, and thematic analysis was used to interpret results.
Results: The demographic data varies from age to years of practice. For the lived experiences, self-fulfillment, building team spirit, personal growth, and professional development were the themes. Regarding challenges and issues, vaccine administrative constraints, vaccine hesitancy, and individual constraints against immunization. Third, coping mechanisms described as vaccination information campaigns, strategic development, and establishing partnerships.
Conclusion: The study's results revealed that almost all pharmacists felt satisfied yet challenged in their roles as immunizers. Most participants discussed specific experiences and situations. Nearly all participants stated that it is fulfilling to be a vaccinator, especially during the pandemic. They also noted that this certification contributed to their personal betterment and increased their competence as pharmacists.
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