Knowledge, Attitudes, And Practices (KAP) of Community Pharmacists Towards Proper Disposal of Expired Medications in Koronadal City, South Cotabato

Abstract

This study evaluated the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of community pharmacists regarding the proper disposal of expired medications in Koronadal City, South Cotabato. Specifically, it aimed to determine the level of knowledge, attitudes, and practices of community pharmacists and identify significant relationships among these variables. The study utilized a descriptive-correlational research design involving thirty community pharmacists as respondents. Data were collected using a validated survey questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics and correlation analysis. Findings revealed that community pharmacists demonstrated a high level of knowledge regarding disposal methods, environmental risks, and regulatory guidelines related to pharmaceutical waste management. Respondents also exhibited highly positive attitudes toward proper disposal, emphasizing public safety, environmental protection, and professional responsibility. In terms of practices, pharmacists consistently complied with proper disposal procedures, including segregation, labeling, inventory monitoring, and coordination with authorized disposal providers. However, minor gaps were observed in awareness of penalties, reporting procedures, documentation practices, disposal scheduling, and the use of official manuals. The study further found that pharmacists experienced moderate challenges related to resource limitations and awareness barriers, particularly insufficient disposal facilities, budget constraints, and limited dissemination of regulatory information. Correlation analysis revealed significant positive relationships among knowledge, attitudes, and practices, indicating that higher knowledge levels are associated with more favorable attitudes and better disposal practices. Consequently, the null hypothesis was rejected in favor of the alternative hypothesis. The study concludes that community pharmacists in Koronadal City possess adequate competence and positive professional behavior regarding the proper disposal of expired medications, highlighting the importance of continuous education, strengthened regulatory support, and improved pharmaceutical waste management practices.