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Dat TV, Minh NH, Hoang TM, Thu Hien T, Bao PNH, Tu VL, Hung NV, Thuy NHL, Nga DTK. Implementation of Telepharmacy to Provide Medication Consultation Service for Patients: A Case Study From Thu Duc City Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City. Cureus 2024; 16:e60746. [PMID: 38903303 PMCID: PMC11187783 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.60746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Telepharmacy is receiving significant attention as an innovative approach. The objective of this study is to assess the needs and evaluate the impact of telepharmacy applications in drug consultations at Thu Duc City Hospital. We used a cross-sectional research design and conducted a survey with the participation of leaders of the Faculty of Pharmacy, clinical pharmacists, dispensing pharmacists, and patients or their caregivers who receive medication at the Pharmacy of Thu Duc Hospital. We deployed a telepharmacy application for consulting on drug use and surveyed the satisfaction of patients/family members with the telepharmacy model. 60.3% of survey subjects expressed a desire to receive drug use consultations through telepharmacy if the hospital were to offer this service. One hundred percent of the pharmacists at the pharmacy and the hospital's leadership believe that telepharmacy can address patient consultation needs and improve the current physical facilities in the dispensing area. Over 90% of telepharmacy users reported being satisfied or very satisfied with the service. Telepharmacy has garnered the attention of patients, their caregivers, and the medical staff at the Outpatient Pharmacy of Thu Duc Hospital. The majority of users are satisfied with the drug use consultation service provided by telepharmacy. By expanding the good results of Thu Duc Hospital to other hospitals, more patients across Vietnam can benefit from this innovative approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Truong Van Dat
- Saigon Pharmaceutical Science and Technology Center, University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh, VNM
- Ministry Office, Ministry of Health, Vietnamese, Ha Noi, VNM
| | - Nguyen Hong Minh
- Saigon Pharmaceutical Science and Technology Center, University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh, VNM
| | - Thai Minh Hoang
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh, VNM
| | - Tran Thu Hien
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Thu Duc City Hospital, Ho Chi Minh, VNM
| | - Phan Nguyen Hoai Bao
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh, VNM
| | - Vo Linh Tu
- Faculty of Traditional Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh, VNM
| | - Nguyen Vu Hung
- Ministry Office, Ministry of Health, Vietnamese, Ha Noi, VNM
| | - Nguyen Huu Lac Thuy
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh, VNM
| | - Dang Thi Kieu Nga
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh, VNM
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Siddiqua A, Makki S, Siddiqui S, A. Abdelkarim R, Jubran T, Nwar W, Alqahtani A, Alshehri M, Saeed M, Khaled A. Community Pharmacists' Knowledge and Perception towards Telepharmacy Services and Willingness to Practice It in Light of COVID-19. Int J Clin Pract 2024; 2024:6656097. [PMID: 38328797 PMCID: PMC10849811 DOI: 10.1155/2024/6656097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 08/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Background During the COVID-19 pandemic, there was increased adoption of telepharmacy, which has proven benefits. This study was conducted to assess the knowledge and perception of the community pharmacists of Aseer region, Saudi Arabia, towards telepharmacy services and evaluate their willingness to adopt telepharmacy in clinical practice during the COVID-19 pandemic. Materials and Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted using an online self-administered structured anonymous questionnaire on the community pharmacists of Aseer region, Saudi Arabia. It covers demographics, computer access and literacy, knowledge and perception, and willingness to practice telepharmacy. Results were expressed as frequencies, percentages, and mean. The comparison between the classes of the demographic variables and the scores was done via Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney tests. Result About half of the pharmacists in our study showed average knowledge about telepharmacy, the practical application of telepharmacy technology, and telepharmacy guidelines with a percentage of 53%, 52%, and 47%, respectively). Majority of the participants showed high perception towards telepharmacy in Saudi Arabia, while 93% of the pharmacists in Saudi Arabia agreed that the implementation of telepharmacy technology is appropriate due to the current COVID-19 pandemic. Only a significant relation was found between gender and computer access, literacy, and perceptions towards telepharmacy with p values of 0.033 and 0.026, respectively. Conclusion The majority of the community pharmacists exhibited a positive perception and are willing to practice the concept of telepharmacy despite having a below average knowledge of telepharmacy. A future study involving the entire kingdom of Saudi Arabia could help identify the gaps in the knowledge, perception, and willingness to practice telepharmacy on a broader scale and thus promote telepharmacy adoption in the entire kingdom.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayesha Siddiqua
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Soha Makki
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sazada Siddiqui
- Department of Biology, College of Science, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Randa A. Abdelkarim
- Faculty of Mathematical Sciences and Informatics, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Tahani Jubran
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Wejdan Nwar
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahlam Alqahtani
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Maryam Alshehri
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Maram Saeed
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Arwa Khaled
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Beni-Suef University Hospital, Beni-Suef University, Beni Suef, Egypt
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Alfian SD, Insani WN, Puspitasari IM, Wawruch M, Abdulah R. Effectiveness and Process Evaluation of Using Digital Health Technologies in Pharmaceutical Care in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: A Systematic Review of Quantitative and Qualitative Studies. Telemed J E Health 2023; 29:1289-1303. [PMID: 36749170 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2022.0406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Digital health technology (DHT) has the potential to enhance remote health care delivery. However, little is known about the effectiveness of DHTs and factors that contribute to the limited uptake of DHTs in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Therefore, the objective of this study was to systematically review the effectiveness and evaluation process concerning the use of DHTs in pharmaceutical care in LMICs. Methods: A literature search on PubMed and Embase was conducted to identify experimental, descriptive, qualitative, and mixed-method studies that focused on the use of DHTs in pharmaceutical care as the main intervention, reported on the effects and/or the process of the DHT intervention, were performed by pharmacists, were conducted in LMICs, and had been published in English. Two reviewers independently conducted the study selection process. A qualitative narrative review of the effectiveness of using DHTs was conducted evaluating the population, intervention, comparators, and outcomes. We summarized the content and identified themes of the evaluation process under two categories-challenges and opportunities. Results: The search produced 589 studies, of which 16 met the eligibility criteria. The most common type of DHT was mobile health application (mHealth app; n = 8), followed by mobile phone call (n = 6) and mobile video call (n = 2). Eight studies assessed the effectiveness of using DHTs in pharmaceutical care. mHealth app, mobile phone call, mobile video call, text messages, home telemonitoring, and internet-based drug information centers improved some health-related outcomes. Two of these eight studies, however, did not find significant effects of a phone call or an mHealth app on certain health-related outcomes. Of the seven quantitative studies conducting a process evaluation, all showed that patients were satisfied with the use of DHTs in pharmaceutical care provided by pharmacists. Of the two mixed-methods and one qualitative study assessing the process evaluation concerning DHT usage, three distinct themes of challenges (patient-, DHT-, and health care system-related challenges) and opportunities (patient-, DHT-, and pharmacist-related opportunities) were identified. Conclusions: DHT is a promising approach in pharmaceutical care toward improving health-related outcomes in LMICs, despite the variable intervention effects. The challenges and opportunities identified are important considerations when developing and implementing DHTs in pharmaceutical care in LMICs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofa D Alfian
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Padjadjaran, Jatinangor, Indonesia
- Drug Utilization and Pharmacoepidemiology Research Group, Center of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Care Innovation, Universitas Padjadjaran, Jatinangor, Indonesia
| | - Widya N Insani
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Padjadjaran, Jatinangor, Indonesia
| | - Irma M Puspitasari
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Padjadjaran, Jatinangor, Indonesia
- Drug Utilization and Pharmacoepidemiology Research Group, Center of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Care Innovation, Universitas Padjadjaran, Jatinangor, Indonesia
| | - Martin Wawruch
- Institute of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Rizky Abdulah
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Padjadjaran, Jatinangor, Indonesia
- Drug Utilization and Pharmacoepidemiology Research Group, Center of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Care Innovation, Universitas Padjadjaran, Jatinangor, Indonesia
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Abu-Farha R, Alzoubi KH, Abu Assab M, Awwad O, Gharaibeh L, Mukattash TL, Halboup AM. Perception and Willingness to Use Telepharmacy Among the General Population in Jordan. Patient Prefer Adherence 2023; 17:2131-2140. [PMID: 37650044 PMCID: PMC10464898 DOI: 10.2147/ppa.s428470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective This research aimed to explore how telepharmacy is perceived, whether it would be willingly used by the overall population in Jordan, and the associated socioeconomic disparities that might affect its acceptance. Methods This is a survey-based cross-sectional study involving the general public of Jordan. The study took place in various Jordanian cities from May 2nd to June 1st, 2023. Using Google forms, the questionnaire was shared through various social media channels (such as Facebook and WhatsApp). Results The questionnaire received responses from 800 participants. The data showed that a sizable portion of the Jordanian population were unaware of telepharmacy (n= 343, 42.9%), and a majority had never utilized it (n= 131, 16.4%). The participants viewed the main advantage of telepharmacy as minimizing unnecessary trips to pharmacies (n= 668, 83.5%) and reducing travel time and expenses (n= 632, 79.0%). However, the primary concern was the mental effort required to use this service (n= 465, 58.1%). Of the respondents, 61.3% (n= 490) indicated a willingness to adopt telepharmacy services in the future. Regression analysis indicated that men were more likely to use this service compared to women (OR= 1.947, p<0.001), and people living in northern and southern Jordan exhibited a greater willingness compared to those inhabiting the central region (OR= 2.168, p<0.001). Conclusion The results reveal a positive attitude towards and a significant readiness to embrace telepharmacy among the Jordanian population. However, for broader acceptance and utilization, apprehensions regarding the service need to be addressed. Doing so could improve access to pharmaceutical care, particularly for patients living in far-flung areas of Jordan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rana Abu-Farha
- Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Applied Science Private University, Amman, Jordan
| | - Karem H Alzoubi
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Pharmacotherapeutics, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Mohammad Abu Assab
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zarqa University, Zarqa, Jordan
| | - Oriana Awwad
- Department Biopharmaceutics and Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Lobna Gharaibeh
- Pharmacological and Diagnostic Research Center, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Ahliyya Amman University, Amman, Jordan
| | - Tareq L Mukattash
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Abdulsalam M Halboup
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Practice, University of Science and Technology, Sana’a, Yemen
- Discipline of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia
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Francis M, Francis P, Patanwala AE, Penm J. Obtaining medication histories via telepharmacy: an observational study. J Pharm Policy Pract 2023; 16:69. [PMID: 37291672 DOI: 10.1186/s40545-023-00573-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Medication reconciliation is an effective strategy to reduce medication errors upon hospital admission. The process involves obtaining a best possible medication history (BPMH), which can be both time-consuming and resource-intensive. During the COVID-19 pandemic, telepharmacy was used to reduce the risk of viral transmission. Telepharmacy is the remote provision of pharmacy-led clinical services, such as obtaining BPMHs, using telecommunications. However, the accuracy of telephone-obtained BPMHs has not yet been evaluated. Therefore, the primary aim of this study was to evaluate the proportion of patients who have an accurate BPMH from the telephone-obtained BPMH compared to an in-person obtained BPMH. METHODS This prospective, observational study took place in a large tertiary hospital. Recruited patients or carers had their BPMH obtained by a pharmacist over the telephone. The same patients or carers then had their BPMH conducted in-person to identify any deviations between the telephone-obtained and in-person obtained BPMH. All telephone-obtained BPMHs were timed with a stopwatch. Any deviations were categorised according to their potential consequence. An accurate BPMH was defined as having no deviations. Descriptive statistics were used to report all quantitative variables. A multivariable logistic regression was conducted to identify risk factors for patients and medications for having medication deviations. RESULTS In total, 116 patients were recruited to receive both a telephone-obtained and in-person obtained BPMH. Of these, 91 patients (78%) had an accurate BPMH with no deviations. Of the 1104 medications documented across all the BPMHs, 1064 (96%) had no deviation. Of the 40 (4%) medication deviations, 38 were deemed low-risk (3%) and 2 high-risk (1%). A patient was more likely to have a deviation if they are taking more medications (aOR: 1.11; 95% CI: 1.01-1.22; p < 0.05). A medication was more likely to have a deviation if it was regular non-prescription medication (aOR: 4.82; 95% CI: 2.14-10.82; p < 0.001) or 'when required' non-prescription medication (aOR: 3.12; 95% CI: 1.20-8.11; p = 0.02) or a topical medication (aOR: 12.53; 95% CI: 4.34-42.17; p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Telepharmacy represents a reliable and time-efficient alternative to in-person BPMHs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Francis
- Department of Pharmacy, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, NSW, Australia.
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Pharmacy, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia.
| | - Peter Francis
- Department of Neurology, Blacktown Hospital, Blacktown, NSW, Australia
| | - Asad E Patanwala
- Department of Pharmacy, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Pharmacy, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
| | - Jonathan Penm
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Pharmacy, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
- Department of Pharmacy, Prince of Wales Hospital, Randwick, NSW, Australia
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Santos YS, de Souza Ferreira D, de Oliveira Silva ABM, da Silva Nunes CF, de Souza Oliveira SA, da Silva DT. Global overview of pharmacist and community pharmacy actions to address COVID-19: A scoping review. EXPLORATORY RESEARCH IN CLINICAL AND SOCIAL PHARMACY 2023; 10:100261. [PMID: 37096140 PMCID: PMC10091784 DOI: 10.1016/j.rcsop.2023.100261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Revised: 04/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/02/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Pharmacists and community pharmacies play an important role in managing, identifying and preventing the spread of the COVID-19 outbreak. Objectives To characterize the global panorama of action by pharmacists and community pharmacies in facing the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods The scoping review was based on the search for scientific articles in the databases: PubMed; Scopus; ScienceDirect and Web of Science. The search was carried out on August 31, 2021. The selection process was divided into 3 phases: i) title analysis; ii) analysis of study abstracts; iii) analysis of the full texts of the studies selected in the previous step. Studies were independently selected by two investigators and discrepancies resolved by consensus during focus group discussions led by a third reviewer. Results The final search yielded 36 articles for the review. The main strategies for coping with COVID-19 were grouped into 4 categories defined by consensus between the authors: (1) services for providing care to the patient; (2) product management; (3) infection prevention and control practices in community pharmacy; (4) preparation, sources of information used and training offered/received. Through these, the aim was to involve technical managerial, technical assistance and pedagogical technical actions adopted, as well as structure and process indicators that allowed the continuity of the offer of services. Conclusion During the pandemic, pharmacists and community pharmacies have been providing essential health services to communities. The results of this review may help to identify the changes adopted to face the COVID-19 pandemic and may contribute to improving the quality of practices in these establishments during the pandemic and after it, in similar situations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yane Silva Santos
- Member of the Geriatrics and Gerontology Study Group (GREGG) at the Federal University of Vale do São Francisco (UNIVASF), Petrolina (PE), Brazil
| | - Denise de Souza Ferreira
- Pharmacy students and Members of the Geriatrics and Gerontology Study Group (GREGG) at the Federal University of Vale do São Francisco (UNIVASF), Petrolina (PE), Brazil
| | - Any Beatriz Matos de Oliveira Silva
- Pharmacy students and Members of the Geriatrics and Gerontology Study Group (GREGG) at the Federal University of Vale do São Francisco (UNIVASF), Petrolina (PE), Brazil
| | - Clara Freire da Silva Nunes
- Pharmacy students and Members of the Geriatrics and Gerontology Study Group (GREGG) at the Federal University of Vale do São Francisco (UNIVASF), Petrolina (PE), Brazil
| | - Sueza Abadia de Souza Oliveira
- Master in Collective Health by Federal University of Goias. President of Brazilian Society of Pharmacists and Community Pharmacies, Brasília (DF), Brazil
| | - Daniel Tenório da Silva
- Coordinator of the Study Group on Geriatrics and Gerontology (GREGG) at the Federal University of Vale do São Francisco (UNIVASF), Petrolina (PE), Brazil
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Quirós-González V, Rubio R, Pulido F, Rial-Crestelo D, Martín-Jurado C, Hernández-Ros MÁ, López-Jiménez EA, Ferrari JM, Caro-Teller JM, Pinar Ó, Pedrera-Jiménez M, García-Barrio N, Serrano P, Bernal JL. Healthcare outcomes in patients with HIV infection at a tertiary hospital during the COVID-19 pandemic. Enferm Infecc Microbiol Clin 2023; 41:149-154. [PMID: 34456409 PMCID: PMC8380489 DOI: 10.1016/j.eimc.2021.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Background The COVID-19 pandemic has affected the care of patients with other diseases. Difficulty in access to healthcare during these months has been especially relevant for persons with HIV infection (PWH). This study therefore sought to ascertain the clinical outcomes and effectiveness of the measures implemented among PWH in a region with one of the highest incidence rates in Europe. Methods Retrospective, observational, pre-post intervention study to compare the outcomes of PWH attended at a high-complexity healthcare hospital from March to October 2020 and during the same months across the period 2016-2019. The intervention consisted of home drug deliveries and preferential use of non face-to-face consultations. The effectiveness of the measures implemented was determined by reference to the number of emergency visits, hospitalisations, mortality rate, and percentage of PWH with viral load >50 copies, before and after the two pandemic waves. Results A total of 2760 PWH were attended from January 2016 to October 2020. During the pandemic, there was a monthly mean of 106.87 telephone consultations and 2075 home deliveries of medical drugs dispensed to ambulatory patients. No statistically significant differences were found between the rate of admission of patients with COVID-HIV co-infection and that of the remaining patients (1172.76 admissions/100,000 population vs. 1424.29, p = 0.401) or in mortality (11.54% vs. 12.96%, p = 0.939). The percentage of PWH with viral load >50 copies was similar before and after the pandemic (1.20% pre-pandemic vs. 0.51% in 2020, p = 0.078). Conclusion Our results show that the strategies implemented during the first 8 months of the pandemic prevented any deterioration in the control and follow-up parameters routinely used on PWH. Furthermore, they contribute to the debate about how telemedicine and telepharmacy can fit into future healthcare models.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rafael Rubio
- Unidad de Infección VIH, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
| | - Federico Pulido
- Unidad de Infección VIH, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
| | - David Rial-Crestelo
- Unidad de Infección VIH, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carlos Martín-Jurado
- Servicio de Análisis de Información y Control de Gestión, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
| | - María Ángeles Hernández-Ros
- Servicio de Análisis de Información y Control de Gestión, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | | | - Óscar Pinar
- Servicio de Farmacia, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | - Pablo Serrano
- Dirección de Planificación, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
| | - José Luis Bernal
- Servicio de Análisis de Información y Control de Gestión, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
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Quirós-González V, Rubio R, Pulido F, Rial-Crestelo D, Martín-Jurado C, Hernández-Ros MÁ, López-Jiménez EA, Ferrari JM, Caro-Teller JM, Pinar Ó, Pedrera-Jiménez M, García-Barrio N, Serrano P, Bernal JL. Healthcare outcomes in patients with HIV infection at a tertiary hospital during the COVID-19 pandemic. ENFERMEDADES INFECCIOSAS Y MICROBIOLOGIA CLINICA (ENGLISH ED.) 2023; 41:149-154. [PMID: 36870732 PMCID: PMC9977934 DOI: 10.1016/j.eimce.2021.07.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/25/2021] [Indexed: 03/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic has affected the care of patients with other diseases. Difficulty in access to healthcare during these months has been especially relevant for persons with HIV infection (PWH). This study therefore sought to ascertain the clinical outcomes and effectiveness of the measures implemented among PWH in a region with one of the highest incidence rates in Europe. METHODS Retrospective, observational, pre-post intervention study to compare the outcomes of PWH attended at a high-complexity healthcare hospital from March to October 2020 and during the same months across the period 2016-2019. The intervention consisted of home drug deliveries and preferential use of non face-to-face consultations. The effectiveness of the measures implemented was determined by reference to the number of emergency visits, hospitalisations, mortality rate, and percentage of PWH with viral load >50copies, before and after the two pandemic waves. RESULTS A total of 2760 PWH were attended from January 2016 to October 2020. During the pandemic, there was a monthly mean of 106.87 telephone consultations and 2075 home deliveries of medical drugs dispensed to ambulatory patients. No statistically significant differences were found between the rate of admission of patients with COVID-HIV co-infection and that of the remaining patients (1172.76 admissions/100,000 population vs. 1424.29, p=0.401) or in mortality (11.54% vs. 12.96%, p=0.939). The percentage of PWH with viral load >50copies was similar before and after the pandemic (1.20% pre-pandemic vs. 0.51% in 2020, p=0.078). CONCLUSION Our results show that the strategies implemented during the first 8 months of the pandemic prevented any deterioration in the control and follow-up parameters routinely used on PWH. Furthermore, they contribute to the debate about how telemedicine and telepharmacy can fit into future healthcare models.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rafael Rubio
- Unidad de Infección VIH, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
| | - Federico Pulido
- Unidad de Infección VIH, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
| | - David Rial-Crestelo
- Unidad de Infección VIH, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carlos Martín-Jurado
- Servicio de Análisis de Información y Control de Gestión, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
| | - María Ángeles Hernández-Ros
- Servicio de Análisis de Información y Control de Gestión, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | | | - Óscar Pinar
- Servicio de Farmacia, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | - Pablo Serrano
- Dirección de Planificación, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
| | - José Luis Bernal
- Servicio de Análisis de Información y Control de Gestión, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain
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Lobo Borba HH, Woranovicz Carvalho DM. Impact of the Fourth Industrial Revolution on clinical pharmaceutical services: A scoping review. Res Social Adm Pharm 2023; 19:235-242. [PMID: 36175273 DOI: 10.1016/j.sapharm.2022.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Revised: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Digital technologies are becoming increasingly sophisticated and integrated, but the scope of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) is wider: technologies and innovations are diffusing faster and more widely. Despite the extensive use of telepharmacy technology by patients and pharmacists, there is an absence of research that examines the use of telepharmacy. OBJECTIVE To investigate the current evidence concerning the impact of the 4IR on the provision of pharmaceutical services. METHODS A scoping review based on the PCC (Population, Concept, and Context) mnemonic was conducted in Pubmed, Scopus and Web of Science. Population included pharmacist/clinical pharmaceutical services, the concept referred to the 4IR and the context was open. Electronic searches retrieved 8,694 articles that were screened by titles and abstracts. The search yielded 59 studies that were analyzed in terms of country of focus, publication year, type of publication, main technologies, types of pharmacy services, and the role of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. RESULTS Most of the included studies were conducted in the United States and were published between 2005 and 2021, with the highest number of publications in the year of 2021. The majority of included articles were observational studies. Technologies addressed in the studies were those within the scope of telepharmacy, and most of the articles discussed more than one pharmaceutical service, with medication therapy management as the most frequent. CONCLUSIONS The Covid-19 pandemic accelerated the use of technologies, identifying promising niches for pharmacists in the field of Pharmaceutical Care. This should encourage pharmacists to fortify their capacity to adopt new technologies in the provision of pharmaceutical services. The frequent use of various technologies has been demonstrated, which indicates the exigency for further health education actions by the pharmacist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena Hiemisch Lobo Borba
- Department of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Curitiba, Av. Pref. Lothário Meissner, 632, Jardim Botânico, Curitiba, PR, Zip code 80210-170, Brazil.
| | - Denise Maria Woranovicz Carvalho
- Department of General and Applied Administration, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Curitiba, Av. Pref. Lothário Meissner, 632, Jardim Botânico, Curitiba, PR, Zip code 80210-170, Brazil.
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10
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Telepharmacy services to support patients with epilepsy in Thailand: A descriptive study. Heliyon 2023; 9:e13361. [PMID: 36816228 PMCID: PMC9932735 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e13361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Telepharmacy shows an effective option to provide pharmacy services in several settings. It could improve patients' outcomes and save costs. However, the impact of a telepharmacy services in low resource settings remains limited. Objectives This study assessed the feasibility and effect of telepharmacy services on patient-reported clinical and economic outcomes among patients with epilepsy in Thailand. Methods A prospective descriptive study was conducted at a university hospital. Patients with epilepsy visiting the clinic from February 2021-December 2021 were included. Telepharmacy services were provided by hospital pharmacists through an application platform. Patients met a pharmacist synchronously using a video conference feature embedded in our developed website. Patients were interviewed for improved clinical symptoms, drug-related problems (DRPs), and health and social behaviors. Travel costs, food and accommodation costs and productivity costs due to hospital visits were also evaluated. Results A total of 80 patients were included. Of those, 39 patients (48.75%) were men, averaging 35.44 ± 15.09 years old. A total of 22 patients (27.50%) reported better clinical symptoms after the telepharmacy service. Sixty-four DRPs (69.56%) were observed, along with 28 health and social behavior problems (30.44%). The most common DRPs were adverse drug reactions (20/64; 69.56%), followed by patients' non-adherence (20/64; 31.25%). Sixty-six problems (68.04%) were corrected during the telepharmacy service. From the patient's perspective, the average direct nonmedical cost per visit was 1257 ± 857 THB/visit. Travel costs were the major cost driver, accounting for 67.7% of the total cost. Cost savings averaged 6511 ± 4996 THB/year or 54.75% of usual care. Conclusion Telepharmacy services are likely to improve patient outcomes, detect DRPs, and effectively provide cost-savings. However, further studies hosting a larger number of participants are warranted to assess the impacts of telepharmacy services.
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11
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Morillo-Verdugo R, Morillo-Lisa R, Espolita-Suarez J, Delgado-Sanchez O. Evaluation of Patient Experience With A Model of Coordinated Telematic Pharmaceutical Care Between Hospital and Rural Pharmacies in Spain: A Proof of Concept. J Multidiscip Healthc 2023; 16:1037-1046. [PMID: 37082105 PMCID: PMC10112476 DOI: 10.2147/jmdh.s406636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose To determine the usefulness of a coordinated pharmaceutical care model between the specialized hospital setting and the rural community care setting, based on the incorporation of telepharmacy based on Capacity-Motivation-Opportunity (CMO) methodology to improve patient experience with hospital medication prescriptions. Patients and Methods Prospective cohort study in outpatients receiving telepharmacy based on CMO-based pharmaceutical care in rural areas in Spain between January and November 2021, conducted by the pharmacy department of four hospitals and 29 rural communities' pharmacy. Each patient was followed for 48 weeks on both face-to-face and telematic visits, scheduled and unscheduled at the patients' request. Patient experience (IEXPAC questionnaire), and satisfaction (EVASAF) were determined. Secondary variables included pharmaceutical care interventions, care coordination and clinical variables (compliance with pharmacotherapeutic objectives according to the clinical conditions of each patient), additionally measurement of individual holistic results (EQ5D-5L score) was evaluated. Results A new telepharmacy tool (called Telemaco) was developed for a multidisciplinary healthcare team (available at: https://inteligeniapps.com/telemaco/) that includes seven different functionalities. We evaluated the first 20 patients (50% women) were included. Their median age was 66.0 years (IQR=14). A total of 215 visits were made (adding 150 video calls). A total of 64 visits were unscheduled (29.7%). The patient´s experience showed improvement (7.4 vs 9.5, p<0.005). The results of the EVASAF questionnaire were also higher (44 vs 48, p<0.001). Overall, 573 pharmaceutical interventions were performed. A difference was observed in patients who achieved the intended pharmacotherapeutic objectives: 48.5 vs 88.2 (p< 0.001). The mean EQ-5D-5L score was 74.7 ± 3.3 at baseline and 80.6 ± 3.6 points at the end (p>0.05). Conclusion Telepharmacy based on the CMO-PC model, using the "Telemaco" tool, has improved the patient experience, satisfaction, and offered other advantages over the traditional model, including more pharmaceutical interventions adapted to the needs of each patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramón Morillo-Verdugo
- Pharmacy Hospital Service, Hospital Valme, Área de Gestión Sanitaria Sur de Sevilla, Sociedad Española de Farmacia Hospitalaria, Sevilla, Spain
- Correspondence: Ramón Morillo-Verdugo, Pharmacy Hospital Service, Hospital Valme, Área de Gestión Sanitaria Sur de Sevilla, Sociedad Española de Farmacia Hospitalaria, Avda/Bellavista s/n, Sevilla, CP 41014, Spain, Tel +34 955015467, Email
| | - Rosa Morillo-Lisa
- Rural Community Pharmacy, Sociedad Española de Farmacia Rural, Zaragoza, Spain
| | | | - Olga Delgado-Sanchez
- Pharmacy Hospital Service, Hospital Son Spases, Sociedad Española de Farmacia Hospitalaria, Palma de Mallorca, Spain
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12
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Cen ZF, Tang PK, Hu H, Cavaco AC, Zeng L, Lei SL, Ung COL. Systematic literature review of adopting eHealth in pharmaceutical care during COVID-19 pandemic: recommendations for strengthening pharmacy services. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e066246. [PMID: 36418133 PMCID: PMC9684285 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-066246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The study aimed to determine how eHealth was adopted in pharmaceutical care (PC), the outcome reported and the contextual factors. DESIGN Systematic literature review in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. DATA SOURCES Literature was searched in six databases including PubMed, Scopus, Medline, Web of Science, Science Direct and China National Knowledge Infrastructure. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA Studies which reported the usage experiences of eHealth in any aspects of PC by pharmacists during the COVID-19 pandemic, written in English or Chinese, and published in peer-reviewed journals between December 2019 and March 2022 were included. Opinion articles, conference abstracts, correspondence, letters and editorials were excluded. DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS The literature search was completed on 15 April 2022. Two researchers independently conducted the literature search and extracted the data into an Excel table informed by the logic model with the key components of goals, input, activities, output and contextual factors. RESULTS Forty-three studies were included in this review. During the COVID-19 pandemic, hospital pharmacists, community pharmacists and specialist pharmacists in 17 countries continued to educate, consult, monitor and manage the patients and the general public via phone calls, videoconferences, mobile applications, social media, websites and/or enhanced interoperability of electronic medical records. Assuring the continuity of pharmacy care, reduced need for hospital visits, and improved work accuracy and efficiency were the benefits of eHealth mostly reported. Contextual factors affecting the adoption of eHealth were multifaceted, prompting supporting actions at the levels of government, hospital/pharmacy, pharmacists and patients. CONCLUSION This study revealed the wide adoption of eHealth in PC during the pandemic and the emerging evidence for its importance. Proper adoption of eHealth will help reshape the mode of pharmacy services to ensure continuity, quality and efficiency of care amid the challenges of the pandemic. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42022299812.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi Feng Cen
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao SAR China
| | - Pou Kuan Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao SAR China
| | - Hao Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao SAR China
- Department of Public Health and Medicinal Administration, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao SAR China
| | | | - Luoxin Zeng
- Department of Pharmacy, Kiang Wu Hospital, Macao SAR, China
| | - Sut Leng Lei
- Department of Pharmacy, Kiang Wu Hospital, Macao SAR, China
| | - Carolina Oi Lam Ung
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao SAR China
- Department of Public Health and Medicinal Administration, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao SAR China
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13
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Muacevic A, Adler JR, Aldakheel FS, Alhmoud FY, Al-Makenzi HA, Zahrani HY, Lubbad HA, Alajami HN. An Assessment of the Knowledge, Perception, and Willingness to Use Telepharmacy Services Among the General Public in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Cureus 2022; 14:e31769. [PMID: 36569686 PMCID: PMC9772859 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.31769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and objective At the height of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, numerous strategies were introduced by the authorities to contain the spread of the virus, which significantly affected people's lives and impeded their mobility. As the general public was unable to leave their dwellings, many digitalized pharmacist-led services were initiated to meet the public's needs for pharmaceutical care. The aim of this study was to ascertain the knowledge, perception, and willingness to utilize telepharmacy services and the determinants associated with these services among the general public in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). Methodology A cross-sectional survey involving participants recruited from the Saudi general public was conducted by using a validated questionnaire. We collected information regarding participants' demographics, as well as knowledge, perception, and willingness toward telepharmacy. The results were analyzed via descriptive statistics. The Mann-Whitney U Test was applied to assess the associations between knowledge, perception, willingness, and demographic variables regarding the utilization of telepharmacy services. Results A total of 273 Saudi citizens participated in the study; 71% (n=193) of them were aware of telepharmacy services. Many respondents showed a positive perception towards telepharmacy services and 83% (n=227) of the total participants showed their willingness to use telepharmacy services in the future. A significant association was identified between education, gender, and the knowledge of the participants regarding telepharmacy services. The demographic characteristics such as age, gender, and education, were not associated with the participants' perception regarding telepharmacy services. However, gender was significantly associated with the willingness to use telepharmacy services in the future. Conclusions Many participants had a fair knowledge and positive perception of telepharmacy services. More than two-thirds of the participants showed their willingness to utilize telepharmacy services in the future. However, further measures should be implemented involving strategies to increase the knowledge about telepharmacy by targeting the less educated among the Saudi population and those with limited access to technology.
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14
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Salah H, Alsamani O, ElLithy MH, Abdelghani LS. Pharmaceutical services department strategies and patient perception to maintain healthcare services during COVID-19 crisis. Saudi Pharm J 2022; 30:1639-1645. [PMID: 36117553 PMCID: PMC9467934 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsps.2022.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In March 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS2-CoV-2) as global pandemic. This health crisis has overwhelmed the healthcare system, leading to unprecedented morbidity and mortality rates. During this pandemic, pharmacies tried to maintain their services either through remote services or face-to-face dispensing and consultation. Objectives This study aimed to share the strategies and plans adopted by the pharmaceutical services department to maintain the healthcare services during the SARS2-CoV-2 crisis and evaluate the patient's perspective. Methods A cross-sectional analytical survey was conducted among patients/patient relatives who attended King Hamad University Hospital (KHUH) outpatient pharmacies in the Kingdom of Bahrain between February 2021 and May 2021. Patients have two options: either to submit the survey online through barcode scanning or to fill it as a physical paper and submit it to the pharmacy staff (Online-based and paper-based). A total of 641 responses were received. Hospital applied safety logistics to ensure staff and patient safety. Results Post-hoc analysis revealed that patients aged between 20 and 39 years had less agreement than patients ≤ 19 years old in terms of preferring to continue the same services after the pandemic (p = 0.009). More level of understanding of pharmacy services was seen among patients with higher educational levels compared to elementary and secondary levels in cases of services related to adverse events (p = 0.038) and wrong/missed medication rectification (p = 0.018). Unemployed patients were more in agreement than employed ones regarding continuing the same procedure after the pandemic, services related to wrong/missed medication rectification, and safety while staying in the pharmacy waiting area. Conclusion Most patients were satisfied with the face-to-face counseling, pharmacy-adapted strategies, and services during the SARS2-CoV-2 pandemic. Face-to-face service during the pandemic was equally comfortable across all age groups and gender.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hager Salah
- Pharmaceutical Services Department, King Hamad University Hospital, Bahrain
| | - Omar Alsamani
- Pharmaceutical Services Department, King Hamad University Hospital, Bahrain
- Pharmacy Program, Allied Health Department, College of Health Sciences. University of Bahrain, Bahrain
| | - May Hassan ElLithy
- Pharmaceutical Services Department, King Hamad University Hospital, Bahrain
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15
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Elden NMK, Mandil AMA, Hegazy AA, Nagy N, Mabry RM, Khairy WA. Health innovations in response to the COVID-19 pandemic: perspectives from the Eastern Mediterranean Region. J Public Health (Oxf) 2022:6780264. [PMID: 36310503 PMCID: PMC9620347 DOI: 10.1093/pubmed/fdac113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Revised: 08/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This paper aims to document the numerous health innovations developed in response to the COVID-19 crisis in the Eastern Mediterranean Region (EMR) using a scoping review approach. METHODS A literature search was conducted using PubMed, the Eastern Mediterranean Health Journal, the Index Medicus for EMR to identify peer-reviewed articles between December 2019 and November 2020 and WHO and ministries of health websites for grey literature. Following an initial review, full-text screening identified studies reporting on health innovations in response to the COVID-19 pandemic in the region. RESULTS This review describes 82 health innovations reported from 20 countries across the region: 80% (n = 66) were digital and technology-based products and services including health care delivery (n = 25), public health informatics (n = 24) and prevention (n = 17); 20% (n = 16) were innovative processes including health care delivery (n = 8), educational programmes (n = 6) and community engagement (n = 2). CONCLUSION The speed with which these technologies were deployed in different contexts demonstrates their ease of adoption and manageability and thus can be considered as the most scalable. Strengthened frameworks to protect users' privacy, documentation and evaluation of impact of innovations, and training of health care professionals are fundamental for promoting health innovations in the EMR.
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Affiliation(s)
- N M K Elden
- Public Health and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, 12613, Egypt
| | - A M A Mandil
- WHO Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean, Cairo, 11371, Egypt
| | - A A Hegazy
- Public Health and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, 12613, Egypt
| | - N Nagy
- Al-Obour High Institute for Management and Informatics, Cairo, 7050210, Egypt
| | - R M Mabry
- Address correspondence to RM Mabry, E-mail:
| | - W A Khairy
- Public Health and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, 12613, Egypt
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16
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Kovačević M, Ćulafić M, Vezmar Kovačević S, Borjanić S, Keleč B, Miljković B, Amidžić R. Telepharmacy service experience during the COVID-19 pandemic in the Republic of Srpska, Bosnia and Herzegovina. HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY 2022; 30:e1639-e1650. [PMID: 34582591 PMCID: PMC8653267 DOI: 10.1111/hsc.13590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2020] [Revised: 09/12/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic exerted a profound impact on health systems worldwide. Moreover, significant concerns were raised in terms of middle- and long-term consequences of postponing care in non-COVID patients. The primary aim of the study was to describe the remote pharmaceutical care service (telepharmacy) during the COVID-19 pandemic in the Republic of Srpska (RS), Bosnia and Herzegovina. The secondary aim was to identify service users' needs and concerns and to describe community pharmacists' interventions. Ten community pharmacists were appointed by the Pharmaceutical Society of the RS to deliver telepharmacy services. After obtaining users' verbal permission, pharmacists documented issues discussed with them. The prospective data collection included the period from April 13 to May 21, 2020. Descriptive and statistical analysis was performed using IBM SPSS Statistics software (ver. 22). A total of 71 service users' charts were analyzed. Telepharmacy users were on average 61.31 ± 13.27 years of age, with almost equal gender distribution. Patients with chronic or acute/subacute conditions were predominant with a share of 84.5%. Chronic diseases were the main reason for searching pharmacists' consultation (74.6%), 7% had a complaint about worsening of a chronic condition, 9.9% reported only acute/subacute conditions as ambulatory conditions, whereas 15.5% asked information about coronavirus or COVID-19. The vast majority of patients' and users' needs were addressed by a pharmacist during counseling and only 15.5% of the patients required immediate referral to a doctor for refill/prescribing purposes. Remote pharmaceutical care service (telepharmacy) is deemed a convenient model in the RS during the COVID-19 pandemic. Patients and users presented with explicit and specific needs and concerns, both COVID- and non-COVID-related, which should not be neglected. Community pharmacists showed a high level of resilience and ability in addressing patients' needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milena Kovačević
- Department of Pharmacokinetics and Clinical PharmacyUniversity of Belgrade – Faculty of PharmacyBelgradeSerbia
| | - Milica Ćulafić
- Department of Pharmacokinetics and Clinical PharmacyUniversity of Belgrade – Faculty of PharmacyBelgradeSerbia
| | - Sandra Vezmar Kovačević
- Department of Pharmacokinetics and Clinical PharmacyUniversity of Belgrade – Faculty of PharmacyBelgradeSerbia
| | - Slavenka Borjanić
- Pharmacy Moja apotekaBanja LukaRepublic of SrpskaBosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Branka Keleč
- Pharmacy ABC PHARMBanja LukaRepublic of SrpskaBosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Branislava Miljković
- Department of Pharmacokinetics and Clinical PharmacyUniversity of Belgrade – Faculty of PharmacyBelgradeSerbia
| | - Rada Amidžić
- The Pharmaceutical Society of the Republic of SrpskaBanja LukaRepublic of SrpskaBosnia and Herzegovina
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Alghamdi NS, Alghamdi SM. The Role of Digital Technology in Curbing COVID-19. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19148287. [PMID: 35886139 PMCID: PMC9320375 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19148287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Revised: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: Using digital technology to provide support, medical consultations, healthcare services, and to track the spread of the coronavirus has been identified as an important solution to curb the transmission of the virus. This research paper aims to (1) summarize the digital technologies used during the COVID-19 pandemic to mitigate the transmission of the COVID-19; (2) establish the extent to which digital technology applications have facilitated mitigation of the spread of COVID-19; and (3) explore the facilitators and barriers that impact the usability of digital technologies throughout the pandemic. Methods: A rapid electronic search following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines was conducted of available records up to June 2022 on the medical databases PubMed, Ovid, Embase, CINHAIL, the Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. Results: An increasing number and variety of digital health applications have been available throughout the pandemic, such as telehealth, smartphone mobile health apps, machine learning, and artificial intelligence. Each technology has played a particular role in curbing COVID-19 transmission. Different users have gained benefits from using digital technology during the COVID-19 pandemic and different determinants have contributed to accelerating the wheel of digital technology implementation during the pandemic. Conclusion: Digital health during the COVID-19 pandemic has evolved very rapidly, with different applications and roles aimed at curbing the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Saeed M. Alghamdi
- National Heart and Lung Institution, Imperial College London, London SW3 6LY, UK
- Respiratory Care Program, Clinical Technology Department, College of Applied Medical Science, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 24382, Saudi Arabia
- Correspondence:
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18
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Muhammad K, Baraka MA, Shah SS, Butt MH, Wali H, Saqlain M, Mallhi TH, Hayat K, Fahelelbom KM, Joseph R, Khan YH. Exploring the perception and readiness of Pharmacists towards telepharmacy implementation; a cross sectional analysis. PeerJ 2022; 10:e13296. [PMID: 35637711 PMCID: PMC9147315 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.13296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Amid the turbulent nature of the COVID-19 pandemic, telepharmacy has shifted the paradigm of patient care by leveraging digital medicine. Government mandated lockdowns and norms of social distancing have further underscored the need for telepharmacy. Many developed and developing countries implemented such initiatives where pharmacists have provided tele-pharmacy services via telecommunications. However, the implementation and utilization of tele-pharmacy services are quite negligible in resource limited settings due to financial and administrative constraints. This study was aimed to ascertain the perception and readiness of pharmacists working in various sectors of a resource limiting country. Methodology A cross sectional study was carried out in all provinces of Pakistan to explore the perceptions of pharmacists towards telepharmacy implementation through a 35-items study instrument. The collected data was analyzed descriptively and scored accordingly. The chi-square test was used for inferential analysis on pharmacist's perception regarding implementation of tele-pharmacy with their demographics. Results Of 380 pharmacists, the mean age is 27.67 ± 3.67 years with a preponderance of male pharmacists (n = 238, 62.6%). The pharmacists (n = 321, 84.5%) perceived that telepharmacy implementation improves patient's quality of life and decreases patients' visits (n = 291, 76.6%). Overall, pharmacists (n = 227, 59.7%) had negative perception towards benefits of telepharmacy implementation, but pharmacists had positive perception towards eligibility (n = 258, 67.9%), regulatory issues (n = 271, 71.3%) and telepharmacy during pandemic and beyond (n = 312, 82.1%). In chi-square testing gender (p = 0.03) and age (p = 0.03) had a significant association with perception regarding regulatory issues. Among perception regarding telepharmacy during COVID-19 pandemic and beyond age had a significant association (p = 0.03). Among perception regarding eligibility job location of pharmacists had significant association (p = 0.04). Conclusion The majority of pharmacists had a positive perception regarding the eligibility of patients and regulatory issues/legal framework regarding the implementation of tele-pharmacy, as well as its use during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond. The implementation of tele-pharmacy can play a major role in providing timely and better patient care to remote patient areas and may help in the prevention and treatment of different infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khayal Muhammad
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Near East University, Northern Cyprus,Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Abasyn University, Peshawar, KPK, Pakistan
| | - Mohamed A. Baraka
- Clinical Pharmacy Program, College of Pharmacy, Al Ain University, Al-Ain, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates,Clinical Pharmacy Department, College of Pharmacy, Al-Azhar University, Nasr city, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Syed Sikandar Shah
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, European University of Lefke, Lefke, Cyprus
| | | | - Haytham Wali
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Clinical Pharmacy, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muhammad Saqlain
- Department of Pharmacy, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Tauqeer Hussain Mallhi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka, Al-Jouf Province, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Khezar Hayat
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Khairi Mustafa Fahelelbom
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Program, College of Pharmacy, Al-Ain University, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Royes Joseph
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Clinical Pharmacy, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Yusra Habib Khan
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka, Al-Jouf Province, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
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19
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Moulaei K, Shanbehzadeh M, Bahaadinbeigy K, Kazemi-Arpanahi H. Survey of the patients' perspectives and preferences in adopting telepharmacy versus in-person visits to the pharmacy: a feasibility study during the COVID-19 pandemic. BMC Med Inform Decis Mak 2022; 22:99. [PMID: 35418072 PMCID: PMC9005615 DOI: 10.1186/s12911-022-01834-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Following the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the health authorities recommended the implementation of strict social distancing and complete lockdown regulations to reduce disease spread. The pharmacists quickly adopted telemedicine (telepharmacy) as a solution against this crisis, but awareness about this technology is lacking. Therefore, the purpose of this research was to explore the patients' perspectives and preferences regarding telepharmacy instead of traditional in-person visits. METHODS An electronic questionnaire was designed and sent to 313 patients who were eligible for the study (from March to April 2021). The questionnaire used five-point Likert scales to inquire about motivations for adopting telepharmacy and in-person visits, their perceived advantages and disadvantages, and the declining factors of telepharmacy. Finally, the results were descriptively analyzed using SPSS 22. RESULTS Of all 313 respondents, a total of 241 (77%) preferred appointments via telepharmacy while 72 (23%) preferred in-person services. There was a significant difference between the selection percentage of telepharmacy and in-person services (chi-square 91.42; p < 0.0001). Preference bout the telepharmacy system versus in-person visits to the pharmacy was associated with factors such as "reducing the incidence of contagious disease" (4.41; ± 0.78), "spending less time receiving pharmaceutical services" (4.24; ± 0.86)), and "traveling a shorter distance for receiving pharmaceutical services" (4.25; ± 0.86). "Reducing costs" (90.87%), "saving time" (89.21%), and "reducing the incidence of contagious disease" (87.13%) were the most important reasons for choosing telepharmacy services. Also, "face-to-face communication with the pharmacist" (25%), "low internet bandwidth" (25%), and "reduction of patients' anxiety and the increase of their peace of mind" (23.61%) were the most important reasons for choosing in-person visits. CONCLUSION Survey data indicate that most participants are likely to prefer the use of telepharmacy, especially during crises such as the current COVID-19 pandemic. Telepharmacy can be applied as an important means and a crucial service to lessen the load on healthcare organizations and expand drug supply shelters in pharmacies. However, there are still substantial hurdles to overcome in order to successfully implement the telemedicine platform as part of mainstream practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khadijeh Moulaei
- Medical Informatics Research Center, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mostafa Shanbehzadeh
- Department of Health Information Technology, School of Paramedical, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran
| | - Kambiz Bahaadinbeigy
- Medical Informatics Research Center, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Hadi Kazemi-Arpanahi
- Department of Health Information Technology, Abadan University of Medical Sciences, Abadan, Iran.
- Student Research Committee, Abadan University of Medical Sciences, Abadan, Iran.
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20
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Dat TV, Tran TD, My NT, Nguyen TTH, Quang NNA, Tra Vo Nguyen M, Hong Ngoc Vo P, Ho TT, Manh Nguyen C, Thi Ngoc Nguyen T, Lac-Thuy NH, Nguyen NTQ, Thi Trinh DT, Nguyen-Thi HY, Huy NT. Pharmacists' Perspectives on the Use of Telepharmacy in Response to COVID-19 Pandemic in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. J Pharm Technol 2022; 38:106-114. [PMID: 35571348 PMCID: PMC9096850 DOI: 10.1177/87551225221076327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Telepharmacy, the application of information and communication technologies in healthcare services, has been adopted in many countries to provide patients with pharmaceutical care. However, it has yet to be widely used in Vietnam. This study was conducted to assess the current status of use and the factors associated with the willingness to use telepharmacy of pharmacists in Vietnam. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from February to July 2021; 414 pharmacists were recruited to fill in an online survey. Results: Overall, 86.7% of participants have used telepharmacy application and 87.2% of them were willing to apply telepharmacy in pharmacy practice. According to our multivariate analysis, the level of readiness was associated with positive attitude (odds ratio [OR] = 4.67; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.26-9.66), and a good behavior (OR = 11.34; 95% CI: 3.84-33.45). Discussion: Developing a telepharmacy system with appropriate features is essential to meet the requirements of pharmacy practice amid the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Truong Van Dat
- University of Medicine and Pharmacy at
Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam,Online Research Club, Nagasaki City,
Japan,Truong Van Dat, University of Medicine and
Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City, 217 Hong Bang, District 5, Ho Chi Minh City 70000,
Vietnam.
| | - Trung Dinh Tran
- Da Nang University of Medical
Technology and Pharmacy, Da Nang, Vietnam
| | - Nguyen Thao My
- University of Medicine and Pharmacy at
Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Tran Thi Hong Nguyen
- University of Medicine and Pharmacy at
Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | | | - Mi Tra Vo Nguyen
- Hue University of Medicine and
Pharmacy, Hue University, Hue, Vietnam
| | - Phuc Hong Ngoc Vo
- Hue University of Medicine and
Pharmacy, Hue University, Hue, Vietnam
| | - Thanh-Tam Ho
- Institute for Global Health
Innovations, Duy Tan University, Da Nang, Vietnam,Duy Tan University, Da Nang,
Vietnam
| | - Cuong Manh Nguyen
- Da Nang University of Medical
Technology and Pharmacy, Da Nang, Vietnam
| | | | - Nguyen-Huu Lac-Thuy
- University of Medicine and Pharmacy at
Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Nga TQ. Nguyen
- University of Medicine and Pharmacy at
Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | | | - Hai-Yen Nguyen-Thi
- University of Medicine and Pharmacy at
Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Nguyen Tien Huy
- Online Research Club, Nagasaki City,
Japan,School of Tropical Medicine and Global
Health, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki City, Japan,Institute of Research and Development,
Duy Tan University, Da Nang, Vietnam
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21
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Deng YM, Wu HW, Liao HE. Utilization Intention of Community Pharmacy Service under the Dual Threats of Air Pollution and COVID-19 Epidemic: Moderating Effects of Knowledge and Attitude toward COVID-19. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19063744. [PMID: 35329431 PMCID: PMC8954536 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19063744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Revised: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The utilization of pharmacy services in response to the threat of COVID-19 infection remains unclear in areas suffering from air pollution, and little is known regarding the effects of knowledge and attitude (KA) toward COVID-19 on this preventive behavior. This study aimed to explore how the residents perceived and reacted to the new threats of the epidemic and how KA may affect the correlation. Based on the health belief model (HBM), this research took the pharmacy service utilization (PSU) as an example to explain the preventive behavior. The samples were 375 respondents recruited from five districts near the industrial parks. T-test, ANOVA, and regression analyses of SPSS 22.0 were used to analyze the data. Test results show that self-efficacy was the strongest predictor, followed by the net perceived benefit. KA moderated the association of perceived threat and PSU intention. The levels of air pollution of a district may not be a good predictor for the preventive behavior against COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yueen-Mei Deng
- Department of Healthcare Management, Asia University, No.500, Lioufeng Rd., Taichung 41354, Taiwan
- Correspondence: (Y.-M.D.); (H.-E.L.); Tel.: +886-919-038978 (Y.-M.D.)
| | - Hong-Wei Wu
- Department of Pharmacy, Tajen University, No.2, Wexin Rd., Yampu 906, Taiwan;
| | - Hung-En Liao
- Department of Healthcare Management, Asia University, No.500, Lioufeng Rd., Taichung 41354, Taiwan
- Correspondence: (Y.-M.D.); (H.-E.L.); Tel.: +886-919-038978 (Y.-M.D.)
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22
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Hefti E, Wei B, Engelen K. Access to Telepharmacy Services May Reduce Hospital Admissions in Outpatient Populations During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Telemed J E Health 2022; 28:1324-1331. [PMID: 35020478 PMCID: PMC9508445 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2021.0420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Avoidable hospital admissions put increased pressure on already strained health care resources, causing emotional and financial distress for patients and their families while taxing the health system. Pharmacist involvement in patient care has been shown to improve health care outcomes. Telepharmacy allows for personalized interaction and access to pharmacy services in a flexible format. The primary aim of this report is to explore the impact that access to a personalized telepharmacy service has on the hospital admission rate in an outpatient population before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Materials and Methods: A retrospective, double-arm cohort study was performed. Hospital admission rates were analyzed in two similarly aged groups; one group (n = 2,242) had access to telepharmacy services through their primary care provider and another group did not (n = 1,540), from 2019 to 2020. Statistical analysis was performed to explore hospitalization rates in both groups. Results: An increase in hospitalization rates was observed in both groups of patients from 2019 to 2020. The patient group that had access to the telepharmacy service demonstrated a reduced rise in hospitalization rates versus the group without access to the telepharmacy service (access group +12.9% vs. nonaccess group +40.2%, p < 0.05, Student's t-test). Discussion: The patient group with access to telepharmacy services demonstrated a reduced increase in hospitalizations versus the group without access in 2020. While this represents a preliminary investigation into the potential impacts of telepharmacy on hospitalization rates, telepharmacy services may have a role in improving patient outcomes and cost savings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik Hefti
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Harrisburg University of Science and Technology, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, USA.,RxLive, Inc., St. Petersburg, Florida, USA
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23
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Expanded roles of community pharmacists in COVID-19: A scoping literature review. J Am Pharm Assoc (2003) 2021; 62:649-657. [PMID: 35120863 PMCID: PMC8704729 DOI: 10.1016/j.japh.2021.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2021] [Revised: 11/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Background Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has affected the world health care system adversely, but it has also brought out innovative roles for health care professionals to cater to growing health care needs. Community pharmacists provide community pharmacy services and can play a vital role in fighting the pandemic by taking on novel roles that complement their pre-existing roles. Objectives This study aimed to provide a scoping review of current and emerging literature about the novel roles adopted by community pharmacists during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods Online databases such as Google Scholar and PubMed were searched systematically using the keywords “COVID-19,” “pharmacist,” and “community.” Articles were selected based on availability of full text in English language, with time limit from December 1, 2019, to October 31, 2021; case reports, cross-sectional studies, literature reviews, qualitative studies, and systematic reviews were included, whereas commentary reviews and editorials were excluded from the search methodology. An independent review of the articles was conducted for inclusion based on relatability to study subject; those chosen were screened for references to find additional gray literature. Findings were arranged in themes, and the results were organized accordingly. Results Novel roles for community pharmacists were found in relation to maintenance of drug-supply chains, delivery of telepharmacy and telehealth services, provision of ambulatory pharmacy services, use of digital software to coordinate medication delivery for patients with chronic conditions, dispelling of misinformation, and roles in research and clinical trials. Roles in a post-COVID world regarding immunization of population and involvement in lifting lockdown strictures alongside other stakeholders were also explored. Conclusion Although COVID-19 has challenged the health care system, it has also provided an opportunity for development of novel and innovative roles that can ultimately have profound consequences for the health care system. Community pharmacists, despite facing multiple challenges in the community, should be facilitated to adapt with these new roles, which can be beneficial in achieving mass immunization and better health care in a post-COVID world.
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24
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Telepharmacy during COVID-19: A Scoping Review. PHARMACY 2021; 9:pharmacy9040183. [PMID: 34842823 PMCID: PMC8628897 DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy9040183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Revised: 10/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of this scoping review is to summarize the implementation of telepharmacy during the surge of COVID-19. This review will focus on answering four questions: During the COVID-19 pandemic, (1) what were the various telepharmacy initiatives implemented? (2) what were the challenges faced when implementing telehealth initiatives? (3) what were the strategies used by pharmacies to overcome the challenges, and (4) what were some of the innovative methods used by pharmacies to implement telepharmacy? A literature search was conducted to include publications post-March 2020 about telepharmacy implementation via PubMed Central database and Google searches. All articles were examined for inclusion or exclusion based on pre-determined criteria. A total of 33 articles were reviewed. The most commonly observed telepharmacy initiatives were virtual consultations, home delivery of medicines and patient education. Limited access to technology and lack of digital access and literacy were major barriers in the implementation of telepharmacy. New protocols were developed by healthcare systems and regulations were relaxed by countries to accommodate telepharmacy. Pharmacies that successfully implemented telepharmacy overcame these challenges through patient and pharmacist education. The review also revealed the steps that can be taken by pharmacy organizations, payers and entrepreneurs in leveraging the convenience of telepharmacy.
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25
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Abu-Naser D. Impact of Clinical Pharmacist Interventions in Prescribing Errors in Hospitalized Diabetic Patients with Major Polypharmacy. Hosp Pharm 2021; 56:392-399. [PMID: 34381280 PMCID: PMC8326857 DOI: 10.1177/0018578720985428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Background: While clinical pharmacists are expected to have a potential role in minimizing prescribing errors (PEs) in patients with diabetes, the effectiveness of their interventions on the incidence and clinical significance of PEs remains unclear. Objectives: To investigate the effectiveness of clinical pharmacist interventions in correcting PEs in diabetic patients with major polypharmacy. Methods: This was a prospective pre-post study conducted in a secondary care hospital in Jordan over 4 months. There were 2 phases: Control, in which PEs were identified and categorized and active, in which clinical pharmacists intercepted and corrected PEs. Clinical severity of prescribing incidents was evaluated by an expert panel, comprising a senior clinical pharmacist, an internist, and cardiologist. SPSS V26 was used for data analysis. Results: Of 928 patients, 432 were followed and reviewed during the control phase and 496 during the active phase. Clinical pharmacist interventions reduced PEs by 89.5%; from 27.6% (control) to 2.9% (active). PEs per patient and PEs per medication orders were reduced from 2.1 to 0.2 and from 0.3 to 0.03, respectively. Electronic selection errors, wrong dose frequency, duplicate drugs, and allergy errors disappeared in the active phase. Significant, serious, and lethal errors were significantly reduced from 35.4%, 11.6%, and 0.2% (control) to 13.5%, 3.1%, and 0.0% (active), respectively. drugs related to CVS (OR = 5.2; 95% CI, 3.1-8.6; P < .05) versus drugs related to endocrine system was more likely to be associated with the occurrence of PEs versus no PEs. However, drug belonging to infectious (OR = 0.6; 95% CI, 0.1-0.9; P < .05) versus drugs related to endocrine system was less likely to be associated with the occurrence PEs versus no PEs. Conclusion: Clinical pharmacist interventions significantly reduced PEs in patients with diabetes by 89.5% and most of these interventions were clinically significant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dania Abu-Naser
- Department of Applied Sciences, Irbid University College, Al-Balqa Applied University, Irbid, Jordan
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26
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Watson KE, Schindel TJ, Barsoum ME, Kung JY. COVID the Catalyst for Evolving Professional Role Identity? A Scoping Review of Global Pharmacists' Roles and Services as a Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic. PHARMACY 2021; 9:99. [PMID: 34064467 PMCID: PMC8162558 DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy9020099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Revised: 04/24/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic requires a range of healthcare services to meet the needs of society. The objective was to explore what is known about the roles and services performed by frontline pharmacists during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. A scoping review was conducted of frontline pharmacists' roles and services during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. A medical librarian conducted comprehensive searches in five bibliographic databases-MEDLINE (via Ovid), Embase (Ovid), CINAHL, Scopus, and Web of Science Core Collection for articles published between December 2019 and December 2020. The initial search retrieved 3269 articles. After removing duplicates, 1196 articles titles and abstracts were screened, 281 full texts were reviewed for eligibility, and 63 articles were included. This scoping review presents a conceptual framework model of the different layers made visible by COVID-19 of pharmacist roles in public health, information, and medication management. It is theorized that there is an invisible layer of change representing evolving professional role identity that may influence permanent role change following the pandemic. Thus, the pharmacy profession needs to build upon the lessons and experiences of this global pandemic and not let the momentum of the visible and invisible changes go to waste.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaitlyn E. Watson
- EPICORE Centre, Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2V2, Canada
| | - Theresa J. Schindel
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2H7, Canada; (T.J.S.); (M.E.B.)
| | - Marina E. Barsoum
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2H7, Canada; (T.J.S.); (M.E.B.)
- Oakville Trafalgar Memorial Hospital, Oakville, ON L6M 0L8, Canada
| | - Janice Y. Kung
- John W. Scott Health Sciences Library, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R7, Canada;
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27
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Aljamal MS, Abdel-Qader DH, Al Meslamani AZ. Applying medicines reconciliation indicators in two UK hospitals: a feasibility study. JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL HEALTH SERVICES RESEARCH 2021. [DOI: 10.1093/jphsr/rmaa029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Objectives
The aim of this study was to apply the Medicines reconciliation (MR) indicators and to assess their feasibility for use with patients on admission.
Methods
This is a mixed-methods study conducted in two large teaching hospitals in the north-west of England. There were two phases: (1) a prospective direct non-participant observational study was conducted on a small sample of five pharmacists in each hospital, who were observed while they conducted the MR process without interference by the investigator and (2) pharmacy staff conducting MR were asked to complete the MR data collection form, comprising various clinical information during the working hours of a selected weekday for all MRs conducted for patients admitted to hospital during that day. SPSS V20 was used for data analysis.
Key findings
In the first phase, five MR indicators were found not to be feasible and three not adequately assessed, while 33 indicators were considered feasible to be used in a hospital setting. In the second phase, 33 indicators were considered feasible to assess MR on admission to the hospital, 14 indicators were found feasible to assess main aspects of the MR process, and 18 indicators were found feasible to assess detailed aspects of the MR process. The majority of admissions were unplanned. Roughly half 45.4% of the patients admitted to hospital A were reconciled, while in hospital B 52% were reconciled.
Conclusion
The use of different methods to collect data was effective in providing valuable information as well as overcoming the potential limitation of each method.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ahmad Z Al Meslamani
- College of Pharmacy, Al Ain University of Science and Technology, United Arab Emirates
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28
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Assessment of inappropriate prescribing of QT interval-prolonging drugs in end-stage renal disease patients in Jordan. DRUGS & THERAPY PERSPECTIVES 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s40267-020-00806-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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29
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Community pharmacists’ knowledge of and attitudes toward antibiotic use, resistance, and self-medication in Jordan. DRUGS & THERAPY PERSPECTIVES 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s40267-020-00797-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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