The National Prescribing Service (NPS) is encouraging pharmacists to support complementary medicine research.
The NPS is conducting research which will be used to improve access to balanced and accurate information about complementary medicines.
Following on from a literature review and a survey of complementary medicine users, a random sample of pharmacists across Australia will receive a questionnaire via mail during March. The questionnaire will assess current complementary medicine knowledge, information needs and preferences of pharmacist information sources. Once the survey is completed, a series of focus groups will be held to further inform the project.
"One of the aims of the project is to further develop the knowledge and skills of health professionals so they are well informed when giving advice to their customers about complementary medicines," said Margaret Williamson, head of NPS' Research and Development area.
"NPS is encouraging all pharmacists who receive the questionnaire to participate in the survey and support this important area of research."
The survey is one part of a major research project being undertaken by NPS in the area of complementary medicines.
Further information about the project is available on the NPS website
www.nps.org.au under
Research and Development, or contact
info@nps.org.au