Health champions in South London: evaluation of training, and impact on public health

Abstract

Objectives: The Healthy Living Pharmacy framework, introduced in England in 2008, provides a tailored approach to the implementation of pharmacy services locally, facilitated by qualified 'Health Champions' (HCs). The study aimed to evaluate the perceived value of the 1-day level 2 HC training by assessing knowledge and confidence of HC pre- and post-training, and changes in practice. The views of additional stakeholders on factors that either obstructed or facilitated pharmacy engagement are also explored.

Methods: This study used a mixed method approach. Pre- and post-training surveys evaluating HC pre-existing knowledge and understanding of their role were used. Additionally, qualitative semi-structured interviews were undertaken with four key groups: participating pharmacists, non-participating pharmacists, Local Pharmaceutical Committee leads and Public Health Leads from Public Health England.

Key findings: A total of 354 pre-training evaluation surveys were completed on the training day (100%), compared to 54 post-evaluation postal surveys with a 19% (n = 54/282) response rate. The post-evaluation of the training indicated that 83% (n = 45) of qualified HC were actively implementing their new role, with observed increased confidence and service provision. From the 22 interviews conducted two major themes emerged including: Training and Impact. Training had a positive impact on staff knowledge and confidence plus service delivery.

Conclusion: An immediate impact was observed in increasing HC knowledge and confidence, service delivery and awareness of facilities for patient sign-posting. There was no statistical evidence to support a positive effect stemming from training on services. However, it was identified that time and further training were needed to both provide and assess value within local public health.

Keywords: health promotion; pharmaceutical public health; professional training; skill mix; workforce.