Knowledge and perceptions of pharmacists regarding the HIV Rapid Test in community pharmacies in Tshwane central business district, South Africa

Abstract

The sale of take-home HIV rapid test kits in retail pharmacies was authorised in May 2015 by the South African Pharmacy Council (SAPC) and pharmacists became front-runners in the sale of HIV rapid test kits. There is a risk of misuse and misinterpretation of the test results if pharmacists are not equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills regarding HIV rapid testing. The aim of this study was thus to assess the knowledge and perceptions of pharmacists regarding the HIV rapid test. The study adopted a quantitative approach and data were collected using self-administered questionnaires. Data were collected from all pharmacies (n=21) located in the Tshwane Central Business District and involved pharmacists (n=23). Quantitative data were analysed by descriptive statistics and responses from open-ended questionnaire items were captured and grouped according to similarity of aspects. About 60% of these pharmacists have not been trained on HIV diagnostic testing concepts. Only 44% understood the window period. The principle behind the test could not be explained by 52% of the pharmacists. Only 28% admitted that patients require counselling before and after testing and almost half of the pharmacists did not have time for counselling. The results of the research indicated that there are gaps in the knowledge of pharmacists regarding the HIV rapid test, the window period and counselling. For effective delivery of quality services regarding the use of the HIV rapid test, pharmacists need to be adequately equipped with relevant knowledge and skills through further training.

Keywords: Pharmacist, perception, knowledge, HIV rapid test, Tshwane CBD.