Community pharmacists and independent prescribing: insights from Saudi Arabia

This study examined community pharmacists’ perceived competence, confidence, benefits, and barriers to independent prescribing practices (IPP) in Saudi Arabia, and explored factors influencing willingness to adopt IPP. A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among 200 registered community pharmacists in the Eastern Province (response rate 71%). The questionnaire was developed based on literature, validated by community pharmacists, refined after pilot testing, and demonstrated acceptable internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha: competence/confidence = 0.825; benefits = 0.841; barriers = 0.605). Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS v28. Most respondents were under 33 years (n = 128; 64%) and male (n = 129; 64.5%). Nearly 60% (n = 120) reported competence in diagnosing minor ailments, 67% (n = 134) expressed confidence in treatment selection, and 65.5% (n = 131) felt prepared to function as independent prescribers. However, 51.5% (n = 103) were unaware of IPP, and 62.5% (n = 125) required additional training. Awareness was higher among those managing minor ailments (p = 0.003), though training needs remained (p = 0.111). Competence was greater among PharmD holders, locally trained pharmacists, and those with longer consultations (p < 0.05). Benefits were improved access, stronger relationships, and reduced physician burden. Barriers included limited records, staff shortages, poor consultation space, and physician acceptance. Pharmacists were confident in managing minor ailments and recognized the benefits of IPP, but gaps in awareness, training, and infrastructure persist. Successful implementation needs SCFHS-accredited training, improved infrastructure, collaboration, and stakeholder engagement to ensure safety and cultural feasibility.