A Mixed Methods Investigation of Paramedic Independent Prescribing
Research type
Research Study
Full title
A Mixed Methods Investigation of Paramedic Independent Prescribing in Emergency and Urgent Care- Work Package 3: Case Studies.
IRAS ID
310457
Contact name
Adam Bedson
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
The University of Southampton
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 6 months, 31 days
Research summary
This research aims to investigate paramedic independent prescribing (PIP) within emergency and urgent healthcare, whilst also exploring any facilitators or barriers to its implementation and delivery.
NHS emergency and urgent care is currently facing an unprecedented level of demand. Advanced level paramedics are able to help meet the challenges faced, by providing autonomous high-level care both in ambulance services, within the emergency departments (EDs) and in urgent care services.
Since 2018, advanced paramedics have been able adopt PIP and it is anticipated that this will enhance their ability to independently provide patient care in a range of settings. However, very little previous research has been undertaken to evaluate PIP. It is therefore unclear if and how PIP is benefiting patients and NHS services, or if any improvements are required to maximise its potential.
Several potential issues may also exist, which include an inability to prescribe certain medicines known as controlled drugs (which include pain medication and sedatives), variation in the training and education of prescribing, alongside concerns about organisational readiness and support for PIP in ambulance services.
Research will therefore be undertaken in two case study sites- An ED and an ambulance service. Over a period of six months and approximately 180-240 hours per site, observation of the prescribing practice of 4-6 prescribing paramedics at each site will be undertaken. Between 10-15 other staff at each site (such as doctors, managers, and other clinical staff) will be interviewed, to explore their views regarding PIP. Prescribing frequency data from paramedics will also be analysed to measure the types and frequencies of medicines prescribed, alongside analysis of relevant site documents related to PIP. Opportunities to observe relevant related meetings will also be sought. Data from observations and interviews will be captured using ethnographic field notes.
REC name
London - Camden & Kings Cross Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
23/HRA/3145
Date of REC Opinion
1 Sep 2023
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion