Pharmacists’ experience, competence and perception of telepharmacy technology in response to COVID-19

Abstract

Background: In the telepharmacy model, the pharmacist can play a pivotal role in delivering pharmaceutical services for patients. However, evidence of pharmacists’ impact on improving patient outcomes through disease outbreak through telepharmacy is sparse. Objectives: This study aims to examine pharmacists' attitudes towards clinical benefits and identify challenges regarding the use of telepharmacy during the COVID-19 pandemic in Jordan. Method: A cross-sectional survey design was used to recruit eligible participants from both hospital and community pharmacies. Results: A total of 364 pharmacists agreed to participate in the study. The majority of the participants (70.6%) expressed favourable attitudes towards telepharmacy to accurately capture and report signs and symptoms of COVID-19. Almost 91% agreed that patients can receive immediate medical feedback while using telepharmacy services. Pharmacists (87%) emphasised their role in the monitoring of physiological parameters when entered by patients using telepharmacy technology. However, more than half of the participants reported that lack of reimbursement and evidence-based studies might hinder the use of telemedicine technology to deliver remote clinical services. Conclusion: The need for implementing telepharmacy technology has been further boosted because of its noticeable benefits in promoting convenient healthcare services remotely in emergency situations.