INNOVATIONS in pharmacy

Exploring public awareness and willingness to engage in pharmacy-based sexual health services: A cross sectional survey

Josleen Albishara

Wayne State University

https://orcid.org/0009-0005-7527-8773

Sama Ali

Wayne State University

https://orcid.org/0009-0004-1531-7892

Michael Klepser

Ferris State University

https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9025-9099

Katie Axford

Ferris State University

https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7057-8180

Brittany Stewart

Wayne State University

https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0748-3290

DOI: https://doi.org/10.24926/iip.v17i1.7313

Keywords: pharmacy-based sexual health, STI testing, pharmacist-patient communication, pharmacy technicians, sexual health counseling, community pharmacy services

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Abstract

Background: Pharmacists are increasingly recognized as accessible providers of sexual and reproductive health services, including sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing and education. However, public comfort discussing sexual health in pharmacy settings remains underexplored. This study aimed to assess public willingness and comfort in engaging with pharmacists and pharmacy technicians on sexual health topics.

Methods: A 22-item cross-sectional survey developed and validated by the study investigators was distributed via Qualtrics to adults aged ≥ 18 years between September and November 2024. Recruitment occurred through Wayne State University communication platforms and an external consumer email list. Survey items included multiple-choice, Likert-scale, and yes/no questions across five domains: demographics, comfort discussing sexual health with pharmacy staff, willingness to use pharmacy-based sexual health services (PBSHS) (e.g., pharmacist-performed STI testing), provider preferences, and awareness of PBSHS. Responses were analyzed using descriptive statistics.

Results: A total of 110 eligible respondents were included in the analysis (mean age 26 years; 71% female). Although 73% of participants reported being comfortable discussing sexual health topics in general, only 39% reported feeling somewhat or extremely comfortable discussing sexual health with a pharmacist. Most respondents preferred discussing sexual health with a primary care provider (64%), while only 2% preferred a pharmacist. Awareness of pharmacy-based STI testing services was limited, with 53% reporting they were unaware such services were available. Despite this, 57% indicated willingness to receive pharmacist-performed point-of-care STI testing, and 74% reported willingness to receive pharmacist follow-up counseling and treatment after testing. Willingness to discuss sexual health through telepharmacy was reported by 71% of respondents.

Conclusion: Although willingness to utilize pharmacy-based sexual health services was moderate, awareness of available services and comfort discussing sexual health with pharmacists remain limited. Increasing public awareness of pharmacist-provided services and improving communication around pharmacists’ clinical roles may enhance patient engagement with PBSHS.