Inter-professional collaboration and associated factors among pharmacists and physicians at University of Gondar Specialized Hospital

Abstract Background Inter-professional collaboration occurs when healthcare professions work together to achieve common goals. It involves communication and decision-making. Inter-professional collaboration between healthcare professionals improves drug safety, patient outcome and minimizes healthcare costs. In Ethiopia, the extent of collaboration remains underexplored. This study evaluates the degree of collaboration and factors affecting collaboration between physicians and pharmacists within University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital. Methods A Hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted from September to October 2025 among physicians and pharmacists working at the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Referral Hospital. Data were collected using a standardized questionnaire based on the Physician–Pharmacist Collaboration Index (PPCI). The PPCI assesses three domains—trustworthiness, role specification, and relationship initiation. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26, employing descriptive statistics and multiple linear regressions to identify factors associated with collaborative care. Results A total of 161 professionals (96 physicians and 65 pharmacists) participated. The mean PPCI score was 72.6 ± 9.6 for pharmacists and 71.0 ± 3.2 for physicians, indicating moderate collaboration. Pharmacists scored higher than physicians in relationship initiation (11.78 ± 2.3 vs. 9.87 ± 2.5; p ≤ 0.05) and collaborative care (26.6 ± 3.7 vs. 24.2 ± 3.4; p ≤ 0.05). Regression analysis showed that pharmacists working in inpatient (p = 0.04) and ART pharmacies (p = 0.02) reported higher collaboration scores compared to those in outpatient settings. Among collaboration domains, role specification (p = 0.04) and relationship initiation (p = 0.01) significantly predicted collaborative care among pharmacists. For physicians, collaboration was significantly associated with working in the internal medicine ward (p = 0.02), trustworthiness (p = 0.04), and relationship initiation (p = 0.02). Demographic factors such as age, sex, and years of experience were not significant predictors (p > 0.05). Conclusion The study showed moderate level of collaboration between physicians and pharmacists. Role specification, relationship initiation, and professional trust were the major factor that affects collaboration, while demographic factors had less effect. Strengthening interprofessional communication, clarifying professional roles, and increase trust-based relationships are important to increase collaboration.