Istanbul Medipol University, Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacy Management
"In an era of fast technological innovation and tremendous global health issues, the role of the pharmacist has changed considerably."
Introduction
In an era of fast technological innovation and tremendous global health issues, the role of the pharmacist has changed considerably. With the introduction of digital pharmacy communication tools, medicine, and health services underwent significant improvements during a pandemic and will continue to do so in the future.
The shift to digital during a global crisis
As the world went through the COVID-19 pandemic, the pharmacist evolved as the primary healthcare provider. In a jiffy, they adapted to new demands and integrated digital technologies into their daily practice in the course of a pandemic. The transition from paper to electronic prescriptions became standard throughout the process, reducing physical interaction and saving the day for everyone involved. Digital product ordering has also replaced the traditional method of meeting patients in person, assuring procedure safety and efficiency.
Enhancing patient care through technology
Digital devices such as smartphones and computers have increasingly become tools for pharmacists to monitor and manage patients. As such, these tools have become useful not only for monitoring the consumption of medicines but also in maintaining continuous care during periods of isolation. The digital approach, therefore, enabled pharmacists to deliver individualized care over the telephone, which proved to be indispensable in public health management.
Digital tools as strategic ınterventions
Research has indicated that the adoption of digital communication tools allowed pharmacists to impact public health outcomes in a huge way. The use of digital telephony, for example, has facilitated increased rates of vaccinations, smoking cessation, and better management of conditions like hypertension. These tools have made pharmacists play a strategic role in the prevention and management of diseases, which places them at the center of the healthcare team.
Reducing risks with digitized prescriptions
The digitalization of prescription workflows has served two purposes: smooth operations and patient safety. Pharmacists now control medication access better than ever, which has seen a significant decline in the frequency of adverse drug events. It brings about better and more effective patient treatments. In addition, the inclusion of pharmacists within the healthcare team increases the cost-effectiveness of interventions by optimizing resource utilization.
Looking to the future: Incorporation of advanced technologies
The future of pharmacy is bright with advanced digital technologies being integrated. The incorporation of robotic systems of drug distribution, widely used electronic health records, and AI support are expected. The innovations are all set to make the practice of pharmacy quite innovative in the new normal and are aligning with the WHO's vision of pharmacists as 'positive change agents'.
1. Topbaş, M. (Ed.). (2022). 2nd International Medicine, Health and Communication Science Congress Book. US Yayınları, Anafartalar Mah. Kazım Karabekir Cad. No: 72/102, Ulus, Ankara.
