Abstract
Background
Globally healthcare system is under increasing strain due to rising patient loads and growing demands of healthcare services. Telepharmacy has emerged as one of the strategies to improve access to pharmaceutical care and reduce pressure on conventional health care delivery. However, research on telepharmacy remains limited, particularly studies that explore pharmacists’ perspectives based on real-world service delivery.
Objectives
This pilot study aimed to (1) identify the types of drug-related problems (DRPs) detected through telepharmacy medication reviews among patients with chronic diseases and (2) explore pharmacists’ perspectives on the facilitators and challenges associated with providing telepharmacy services.
Methods
A cross-sectional pilot study was conducted in two phases. In Phase 1, 215 participants underwent medication reviews via video conferencing, during which pharmacists documented DRPs using a structured form adapted from a Home Medication Review protocol. In Phase 2, pharmacists completed online open-ended surveys to share their perspectives. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests, while qualitative data were examined through thematic analysis.
Results
Among 215 participants, 75.3% experienced at least one DRP. The most common DRPs were noncompliance (35.6%), adverse drug reactions (24.2%), and need for additional drug therapy (15.8%) suggesting that telepharmacy medication reviews may be particularly useful for detecting adherence- and safety-related concerns. Thematic analysis of pharmacists’ feedback revealed five key themes: (1) enhanced accessibility and reach, (2) professional and operational benefits, (3) patient-related barriers, (4) technological and infrastructural challenges, and (5) professional and ethical concerns. These findings suggest that while telepharmacy can extend pharmaceutical care beyond conventional settings, its effectiveness depends on patient engagement, reliable digital infrastructure, and clear professional guidance.
Conclusion
Telepharmacy medication reviews may be a feasible approach for identifying clinically relevant DRPs, and extending medication management support. However, successful implementation requires attention to digital infrastructure, patient engagement, workflow integration, and ethical governance. These preliminary findings support further evaluation in larger, more rigorous studies.
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