Sustainable Medicine Use, Disposal and the Environment

Summary

Motivation

The consumption of pharmaceuticals for human and veterinary use has increased drastically in recent years, causing major problems such as antimicrobial resistance (AMR) to be recognised as “one of the worst global health issues” (WHO, 2022).

The release of pharmaceuticals into aquatic eco-systems from household, hospital, industrial and agricultural wastewaters leads to serious environmental issues and adverse effects on human and animal health (Bush et al. 2011).

Consequently, the management of medicine use and disposal is an important component in minimising environmental pollution and the delivery of safe water supplies.

Pharmacies in the UK are contracted, as part of the Community Pharmacy Essential Services Framework, to accept unused and unwanted medicines from patients for safe destruction. However, many patients are unaware of this service. Appropriate information and edcuation from healthcare professionals such as community pharmacists, GP pharmacists and pharmacy technicians can change this (Vellinga et al. 2014).

Better uptake of this service could limit environmental pollution and antimicrobial resistance.

It has been previously estimated that medicines wasted in Northern Ireland are valued at £18 million annually and costs £650,000 to safely dispose of these unused medicines (Department of Health, 2023).

However, there is limited information on the extent and nature of medicine returns, such as antibiotics to community pharmacies in Northern Ireland.

This research aims to evaluate the current pharmaceutical amnesty campaign in community pharmacies by investigating the use of this service, the medicines being returned and the healthcare and patient perception of this service.

Underlying aim

To investigate and evaluate the current pharmaceutical amnesty campaign in community pharmacies in Northern Ireland

Specific objectives/Methodology

• To determine the number and nature of returned medicines in community pharmacies across Northern Ireland.
• To determine patient and public knowledge and attitude on safe disposal of medicines (and unused medicines) in the environment.
• To determine knowledge and attitude within the healthcare sector (GPs, GP Nurses, GP pharmacists, community and hospital pharmacists and pharmacy/medical students).
• To implement an educational strategy and campaign across Northern Ireland on unused medicines and safe disposal of medicines; through University Pharmacy and Medical Schools and the healthcare sector (GPs, Community Pharmacies, hospital pharmacies and GP Pharmacists) and educate on the environmental/health implications.

Impact

This research will provide invaluable information on the nature and number of medicine returns in Northern Ireland which will inform strategies and policies for implementing an educational strategy for safe medicine disposal; reducing the effects on our environment.

Essential criteria

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study.

We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.

In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.

• Sound understanding of subject area as evidenced by a comprehensive research proposal
• A comprehensive and articulate personal statement

Desirable Criteria

If the University receives a large number of applicants for the project, the following desirable criteria may be applied to shortlist applicants for interview.

• First Class Honours (1st) Degree
• Completion of Masters at a level equivalent to commendation or distinction at Ulster
• Sound understanding of subject area as evidenced by a comprehensive research proposal
• Publications record appropriate to career stage
• Experience of presentation of research findings
• Relevant professional qualification and/or a Degree in a Health or Health related area

Equal Opportunities

The University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants from all sections of the community, particularly from those with disabilities.

Appointment will be made on merit.

Funding and eligibility