The effect of electronic prescription systems on pharmacy performance through evaluation of existing infrastructure in Kerman Iran

Abstract

Challenges such as illegible and incomplete paper prescriptions can disrupt pharmacy performance in medication dispensing. Implementing an electronic prescription system can help mitigate these issues. This study examines the impact of electronic prescription systems on pharmacy performance, focusing on evaluating existing infrastructure. Conducted in 2023 across 120 pharmacies in Kerman city, this cross-sectional descriptive-analytical study employed two researcher-developed questionnaires. Validity was ensured through expert review, and reliability was established using Cronbach’s alpha (0.91 and 0.81) and test-retest methods. Data analysis included descriptive and analytical statistics, utilizing Pearson’s test and linear regression. After the system was implemented, pharmacies achieved the highest mean performance in speed (3.51 out of 5) and the lowest in ease of use (3.18). A significant correlation was observed between the duration of system use, providers’ educational background, and work accuracy (P < 0.05). Hardware facilities scored higher (3.66) than software facilities (2.32). Most infrastructure indicators are significantly related to pharmacy performance, except for hardware and speed indicators (P = 0.10). Despite the above-average performance after implemented, persistent challenges such as poor internet quality and insufficient training remain. Future research should investigate these factors separately to assess their impact on policymaking effectiveness.