Electronic Theses and Dissertations (Masters)

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Start date: 2020Subject: search.filters.subject.South Africa

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    A Survey of the Delivery of Clinical Services in Independent Community Pharmacies in South Africa
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Ismail, Tahir; Khan, Razeeya
    Introduction The community pharmacists' role has evolved from traditional medicine dispensing to patient- centred service provision. Community pharmacy clinical service provision is an integral component of public health intervention and contributes to universal health coverage. The extent of clinical services offered in community pharmacies in South Africa has yet to be studied. Assessing the extent of clinical service provision in community pharmacies provides insight into the willingness of South African pharmacists to deliver these services. Aim This study aimed to identify the clinical services offered in independent community pharmacies in South Africa and the extent to which these services are available. In addition, the willingness to provide clinical services and the barriers to service provision were also assessed. Methodology A quantitative, cross-sectional exploratory research design was used. Responsible pharmacists of the Independent Community Pharmacy Association member pharmacies were invited to participate in an anonymous electronic REDCap© survey from September 2022 to March 2023. Data was exported to Microsoft Excel® and analysed using descriptive statistics. Results Of the 156 responses received, most were located in urban areas (70%) and based in Gauteng (34.8%). The most frequently delivered clinical services were diabetes screening (88.9%), blood pressure measurement (80.8%) and Influenza vaccination (78.9%). Clinical services were primarily delivered by a pharmacist (39.5%), with most pharmacists (94.7%) willing to implement additional clinical services. However, lack of time and remunerations for services (57.1%) were identified as barriers to implementation. Most pharmacists also expressed an interest in additional training to improve clinical skills. Conclusion This study revealed the extent of clinical service delivery in independent community pharmacies in South Africa. Although community pharmacists are willing to provide clinical services, significant barriers limit these interventions. This study also informs service providers of training programmes that need to be developed to meet the specific needs of independent community pharmacists. Further research must address how the barriers identified may be mitigated to facilitate clinical service implementation in community pharmacies
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    Running-related injuries and risk factors among runners in Soweto township clubs, Johannesburg
    (University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2024) Masilana, Masocha Vusi; Kunene, Siyabonga
    The surge in running's popularity globally has brought about an increase in running-related injuries (RRIs), particularly prevalent in sub-Saharan Africa, including South Africa's urban township of Soweto, where physical inactivity and non-communicable diseases pose significant public health challenges. This necessitates targeted research on RRIs in the region to understand the specific external and internal risk factors. The study aimed to determine the prevalence and risk factors for RRIs among recreational and professional runners in Soweto, Johannesburg. The study utilised a cross-sectional design to determine the prevalence and risk factors associated with RRIs, allowing for an efficient one-time data collection from a large sample. Runners from Soweto township was included in the study. A data collection tool in the form of a self-administered questionnaire was employed, utilising the RedCap online platform for administration. A structured analysis plan was implemented using STATA software, with an additional data processing phase in Excel to enhance the clarity and readability of results, including the customisation of charts and graphs to communicate the findings effectively. Descriptive and inferential statistics were obtained. Demographic analysis revealed a higher prevalence of female runners at the beginner level (55%, n=17), with a significant association between advancing age and injury risk. Among professional runners, the distance covered emerged as a significant risk factor, particularly for medium and long-distance runners (odds=2.07, p=0.05 and odd = 3.01, p =0.03, respectively). The frequency of training sessions demonstrated varying degrees of risk for both novice and professional runners. Additionally, terrain-specific analysis highlighted the elevated risk of injuries for beginners on varied terrain relative to professional runners. Statistical findings included significant odds ratios for female runners (odds = 0.75, p =0.05), age over 25 among beginners (odds = 1.56, p = 0.031), medium distance running among professionals (odds = 2.07, p = 0.050), and varied terrain among beginners (odds = 1.76, p = 0.006). This study provides critical insights for tailoring injury prevention and management techniques, particularly for runners of various levels. It emphasises the importance of individualised treatments by stressing nuanced damage patterns between beginners and professionals. The heightened risk on varied terrain for beginners and the unique implications of sports engagement on injury risk for professionals are noteworthy findings. These findings guide tailored prevention strategies, recognising the varied character of RRIs and addressing unique needs at various career stages, with possible policy and future research implications.