Objectives: We share the experiences gathered and lessons learnt in medicine
use by ethnic minorities by the Section for Social and Clinical Pharmacy‑Copenhagen University (SCP‑KU) research group, and provide an overview of theory‑based interventions conducted for and with ethnic minorities.
Methodology: We conducted a review of the scientific and grey literature on ethnic minorities and their access to and use of medicines. Because the aim was to share the philosophy behind the work of SCP‑KU (based on inclusion of the user’s perspective and the use of theory), only studies conducted with that orientation were selected.
Results: A total of 24 studies were selected and analysed. The following successful practices were identified: (i) building trust between the pharmacist and the user/patient; (ii) involving ethnic minorities in all phases of the intervention (design, implementation and follow‑up); (iii) developing an ethnically sensitive culture among pharmacists based on openness, curiosity and respect; and (iv) when possible, involving family, friends and the close
social network of the patient, especially when there is a need for behaviour change related to medicine use or lifestyle habits.
Conclusions: Shaping ethnically sensitive pharmacy‑related services requires the
involvement and empowerment of ethnic minorities in all phases of the intervention research. Caution is needed when classifying social groups based on migrant and ethnic premises.