Using Q methodology in pharmacy research: A method overview and a pilot study

Q-methodology is a unique combination of the strengths of both qualitative and quantitative research technique that allows researchers to investigate the subjective viewpoints, beliefs, attitudes, and experiences of participants on a research topic. However, Q-methodology has not been widely used in pharmaceutical research. Therefore, the purpose of this article is to provide a brief overview of Q-methodology to readers in the pharmaceutical field and present a pilot study on factors influencing pharmacy customer satisfaction as an actual example illustrating the application of this method. We hope to capture interest and encourage more researchers to use Q-methodology in pharmaceutical research in the future. © 2018, Pharmainfo Publications. All rights reserved.