Unlicensed ‘special’ medicines; improving the patients’ experience

Wale, Alesha 2022. Unlicensed ‘special’ medicines; improving the patients’ experience. PhD Thesis, Cardiff University. Item availability restricted.

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Abstract

Unlicensed ‘special’ medicines are used frequently around the world. Often used to treat children, the elderly and those with complex or rare clinical conditions, unlicensed ‘special’ medicines have not been through clinical trials and are not manufactured in commercial quantities like licensed medicines. As a result of this, unlicensed ‘special’ medicines may be harder to access after discharge (Wong et al, 2006). The aim of the thesis was to explore the views and experiences of those involved in prescribing, obtaining, supplying and receiving unlicensed ‘special’ medicines in Wales, in the hopes of being able to provide evidence-based recommendations for change. A systematic review was conducted to identify factors within the literature that have been seen to impact the patient journey or patient care when receiving an unlicensed medicine in the UK. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with community pharmacy staff members (community pharmacists and community pharmacy technicians), prescribers (from within primary and secondary care), and patients (or the parents or carers of those) receiving unlicensed ‘special’ medicines. Analysis identified key areas where delays or disruption may occur and provides an insight into the views and experiences of those who prescribe, obtain, supply or receive unlicensed ‘special’ medicines in Wales. The findings highlight that there is a lack of consistency in the definitions provided for unlicensed medicines and the associated terminology, not only within the literature but also across guidance documents. The lack of consistency was reflected in the limited understanding of all participant groups around what unlicensed ‘special’ medicines are. The detachment between care settings within the NHS led to multiple areas where delays or disruptions were reported. Overall, the evidence suggests that healthcare professionals and patients would benefit from the creation of consistent guidance and a more integrated healthcare system.

Item Type:	Thesis (PhD)
Date Type:	Completion
Status:	Unpublished
Schools:	Pharmacy
Subjects:	Q Science > Q Science (General)
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	21 July 2022
Last Modified:	21 Jul 2022 08:50
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/151400

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