The role of pharmacists in the management of Arabic-speaking people with diabetes mellitus: A systematic review

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of this review was to explore the literature relating to the role of pharmacists as culturally directed diabetes educators in the Arabic-speaking community in Australia. Methods: A systematic search was made of international peer-reviewed literature in PubMed, Medline, Cochrane Library and the grey literature according to the PRISMA systematic review guidelines. Key findings: The search yielded 13 studies that met the inclusion criteria. Evidence of the effectiveness of pharmacists' role in the management and education of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus was abundant in the literature. Many studies examined pharmacists' management and education of diabetic patients in general, but not of Arabic-speaking patients specifically. Conclusion: Future research examining the role of pharmacists as diabetes educators and the needs of Arabic-speaking diabetic patients is of importance to optimize health outcomes and minimize costs related to treatment and complications. © 2013 Royal Pharmaceutical Society.