Year: 2025 | Month: April | Volume: 15 | Issue: 4 | Pages: 315-328
DOI: https://doi.org/10.52403/ijhsr.20250445
Knowledge, Attitude, and Perception of Pharmacists in Primary Health Care Centers Regarding Pharmacy Services in Qatar During COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Study
Dr Mohamed Ali Kalathingal1, Dr Shajitha Thekke Veettil2, Dr Amani Hussain Alyafei3, Nawaf Almudhi4, Iman Ibrahim5
1,3,4,5Operations Directorate, Al Daayen Health Centre, Primary Health Care Corporation, Doha, Qatar,
2Directorate of Clinical Affairs, Clinical Research Department, Primary Health Care Corporation, Doha, Qatar
Corresponding Author: Dr Shajitha Thekke Veettil
ABSTRACT
Background: Pharmacists play a critical role in healthcare, especially during public health emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aims to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions (KAP) of pharmacists working in the Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC) in Qatar concerning COVID-19.
Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among pharmacists in the PHCC in Qatar. A structured questionnaire assessed their knowledge of COVID-19 symptoms, transmission modes, and prevention strategies, as well as their attitudes towards handling suspected COVID-19 cases and their practices in adhering to preventive measures. The data were analyzed to identify key trends and gaps.
Results: Out of 240 targeted participants, 180 responses were received. The respondents were evenly distributed by gender, with 51% males and 49% females. The majority (64%) were aged between 36-50 years, with more than 10 years of experience in the field. During the COVID-19 pandemic, 83% of pharmacists indicated involvement in emergency preparedness. Almost all pharmacists (96%) believed in the importance of addressing patients' queries about COVID-19, and 95% felt pharmacists should be involved in developing treatment plans. While 52% allowed other staff into their pharmacies, 76% believed this increased the risk of transmission. Psychologically, 40.4% reported a negative impact due to the pandemic, while 24.2% experienced a positive impact, reflecting varied effects on mental health. The most common challenges included fear of virus transmission and difficulties with medication delivery. Professionally, 49% reported a positive impact, highlighting growth and adaptation to new guidelines and practices.
Conclusion: The findings underscore the vital role of pharmacists in the PHCC Qatar during the COVID-19 pandemic. Their knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions reflect their preparedness to contribute effectively to public health efforts. However, ongoing training is essential to keep them informed of the latest developments in COVID-19 treatment, thereby enhancing their role in pandemic response and healthcare resilience.
Key words: Pharmacists, COVID-19, knowledge, attitudes, perceptions, primary care, Qatar