Issues in conducting randomized controlled trials of health services research interventions in nonacademic practice settings: the case of retail pharmacies.
OBJECTIVE
To describe unexpected challenges and strategies to overcome them when conducting randomized controlled trials (RCT) of health services research interventions in retail pharmacies.


METHODS
Thirty-six retail drug stores in Indianapolis.


METHODS
We conducted an RCT to evaluate the effectiveness of an intervention to increase pharmacists' involvement in caring for customers. We describe: (1) our RCT as originally designed, (2) unexpected challenges we faced; and (3) how we resolved those challenges.


METHODS
Randomized controlled trial.


RESULTS
Major modifications in research design were necessitated by factors such as corporate restructuring, heightened sensitivity to patient confidentiality, and difficulties altering employees' behavior. We overcame these barriers by conducting research that is consistent with corporate goals, involving appropriate corporate administrators and technical personnel early in the process, and being flexible.


CONCLUSIONS
Health services researchers should conduct RCTs in a variety of non-academic practice settings to increase generalizability and better reflect the true impact of interventions. Pragmatic problems, although significant, can be successfully overcome.
Weinberger
Morris
M
Indiana University Schol of Medicine, USA.
Murray
Michael D
MD
Marrero
David G
DG
Brewer
Nancy
N
Lykens
Michael
M
Harris
Lisa E
LE
Newell
A Jeffrey
AJ
Collins
Joyce
J
Tierney
William M
WM
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D006302:Health Services Research / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D010348:Patient Care Team; D010594:Pharmacies / Q000458:organization & administration*; D010595:Pharmacists; D024382:Professional Role; D012107:Research Design