Background and importance Chronic kidney disease (CKD) has a high risk of morbidity and mortality. The available evidence worldwide demonstrates that non-medical prescribing by pharmacists in various clinical specialties is a safe and effective approach. There is lack of evidence of information on the implementation and development of pharmacist prescribing for patients with CKD.

Aim and objectives Aim was to explore the development, implementation and evaluation of pharmacist prescribing for patients with CKD in the UK.

Material and methods This study used a qualitative semi-structured interview. The development of the theory-based semi-structured interview tool followed a rigorous iterative process using findings from the literature, underpinned by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) and reviewed independently by an expert panel. A date/time for a telephone interview was arranged following receipt of signed consent. All interviews were transcribed verbatim. Interview data were analysed thematically. The Francis method of checking for data saturation was used. Ethical approval was granted by RGU School of Pharmacy.

Results Data saturation was reached after 14 interviews. Demographic details included: 11 female, 7 had >16 years experience in the profession, all had secondary care as their main practice setting and 8 had >11 years as a prescriber. The interviewees were generally very positive about their prescribing practice and they articulated that they were prescribing in a variety of settings. CFIR helped identify themes related to facilitators and barriers to advancing prescribing practice. There was enthusiasm for the future development of prescribing practice including further establishment of clinics and taking responsibility for groups of patients.

Conclusion and relevance This work provides information relating to the current status of the development of pharmacist prescribing practice in the UK. Further ‘deep dive’ case study work will help explore the practice of leading edge advanced and consultant level practitioners to learn even more about practice development.

Conflict of interest No conflict of interest