Assessment of the benefits of and barriers to HIV pharmacist credentialing

Abstract Objectives To ascertain the reasons for, benefits of, and barriers to pursuing the American Academy of HIV Medicine (AAHIVM) HIV Pharmacist (AAHIVP) credential. Methods A cross-sectional study using an electronic self-administered survey was used. Two separate invitations to participate in online surveys were sent to pharmacists who practice in HIV-related settings: 1 to pharmacists with the AAHIVP credential and 1 to members of key pharmacy organizations and employers without the credential. The surveys assessed demographics, concurrent credentials and certifications, and factors influencing the pursuit of and benefits gained from having the AAHIVP credential (credentialed population) or barriers to pursuing the AAHIVP credential (credentialed and noncredentialed populations). Results There were 192 participants (survey response rate 38.8%) in the credentialed population and 212 participants in the noncredentialed population. Perceived recognition as an HIV expert from pharmacist (n = 174; 90.6%) and physician (n = 162; 84.4%) peers was the main reason for credentialing; only 20.4% (n = 23/113) of participants' employers reimbursed for the credential. Common reasons for nonpursuit included lack of employer incentive (n = 46; 26.6%) and lack of fee reimbursement (n = 38; 21.9%) in those aware of the credential. However, a majority of these noncredentialed participants reported they would be interested in pursuing credentialing (n = 152; 80.4%). Conclusion AAHIVP credentialing is sought and maintained on the basis of perceived intangible benefits, such as peer recognition, over tangible benefits, such as increased salary and reimbursement by third-party payers. Despite interest, a lack of employer reimbursement is perceived to be a barrier to AAHIVP credentialing among those who have not yet been credentialed.