Guideline-informed care for osteoarthritis: support needs of community pharmacists and healthcare professionals in Nigeria, West-Africa

Objective: The study examined the context, training needs, and extent to which community pharmacists in Nigeria have the knowledge, resources, and capability to manage OA in line with evidence-based recommendations.

Methods: Focus group discussions (n ​= ​2) were conducted. Discussions explored current practice, the support needs, and perceptions of a new OA care model where pharmacists could be trained to screen, educate, and refer patients. Data was analyzed thematically, including stakeholder workshops to aid interpretation.

Results: Data from two focus groups with 22 healthcare professionals revealed five key themes. Community pharmacies were the first point of call for most patients. Care pathway and navigation onwards were influenced by patient affordability. Radiological examinations and blood tests underpinned diagnosis and care predominantly involved pharmacological approaches. There was no local care pathway agreed/established for health professionals, and multidisciplinary team collaboration/care for OA was limited. Participants expressed the need for professional education and the development of national guidelines to inform osteoarthritis management in primary care.

Conclusions: Nigeria's OA care pathway is fragmented, involves overuse of medication, and has limited access to non-pharmaceutical treatments. A unified, evidence-based approach with adequate training and multidisciplinary collaboration is essential for effective primary care and reducing health inequalities.