김해시 노인 다제약물관리사업 참여 약사와 약학대학생의 인식과 태도 조사

A Study on Perception and Attitude of Pharmacists and Pharmacy Students Participating in Polypharmacy Management Project

This study examined the perceptions and attitudes of pharmacists and pharmacy students participating in the polypharmacy management project in Gimhae-si, Korea. The project was designed to address the increasing burden of polypharmacy among older adults through pharmacist-led interventions, supported by pharmacy students as auxiliary staff. Semi-structured individual interviews were conducted with five pharmacists and seven students to explore their experiences, motivations, and challenges. Pharmacists reported strong professional responsibility and a sense of mission to safeguard medication safety, while students emphasized the value of experiential learning and exposure to real-world patient care. Both groups found the program rewarding, particularly in improving medication adherence and reducing inappropriate drug use. However, limitations such as insufficient time, inadequate incentives, and logistical barriers were also noted. The findings highlight the importance of expanding pharmacist participation, providing institutional support, and incorporating polypharmacy management into pharmacy curricula. Such integration could enhance the sustainability of the program and strengthen the pharmacist’s role in community-based integrated care, especially under the growing demand for elderly care services.