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Alzahrani AM, Felix HC, Alzhrani AA, Alharbi KK, Arbaein TJ, Shahzad MW, Monshi SS. Patient satisfaction with Saudi community pharmacy services (Wasfaty System). J Taibah Univ Med Sci 2024; 19:711-719. [PMID: 39006372 PMCID: PMC11245964 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtumed.2024.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 04/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The healthcare system in KSA has been substantially transformed as part of Vision 2030, including implementation of an electronic prescribing system, called Wasfaty, to enable patients to receive their prescriptions from community pharmacies (CPs). This study assessed patient satisfaction with CPs and the Wasfaty system. Methods This cross-sectional observational study used existing data from the Saudi Ministry of Health's patient experience program. Data were collected from patients (≥15 years of age) visiting governmental primary care clinics in 2022. Summary statistics were determined and multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted. Results The sample included 66,541 patients. More than 70% of patients were satisfied with the services of the CPs and the Wasfaty system. Being older and being female consistently showed a positive association with satisfaction across several services. Whereas patients in preventive clinics had higher odds of satisfaction with medication availability (OR: 1.19, 95% CI: 1.03-1.37) and waiting time (OR: 1.23; 95% CI: 1.03-1.47), patients in chronic disease clinics had lower satisfaction with medication availability (OR: 0.92, 95% CI: 0.85-0.99). Saudi patients had lower odds of being satisfied with multiple services. Conclusions The overall high satisfaction among patients suggested the success of the Wasfaty system in meeting patient needs and expectations. However, areas for improvement exist to increase patient satisfaction, such as addressing medication shortages and ensuring clear patient-pharmacist communication. The results highlight the importance of continued monitoring and evaluation to support the patient experience with pharmacy services, and to improve patients' journeys, medication adherence, and overall healthcare outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali M Alzahrani
- Department of Health Administration and Hospitals, College of Public Health and Health Informatics, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, KSA
| | - Holly C Felix
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Fay W. Boozman College of Public Health, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Abdulrhman A Alzhrani
- Department of Health Administration and Hospitals, College of Public Health and Health Informatics, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, KSA
| | - Khulud K Alharbi
- Department of Health Administration and Hospitals, College of Public Health and Health Informatics, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, KSA
| | - Turky J Arbaein
- Department of Health Administration and Hospitals, College of Public Health and Health Informatics, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, KSA
| | | | - Sarah S Monshi
- Department of Health Administration and Hospitals, College of Public Health and Health Informatics, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, KSA
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Alipour J, Sharifian R, Dehghan Haghighi J, Hashemzehi M, Karimi A. Patients' perceptions, experiences, and satisfaction with e-prescribing system: A cross-sectional study. Int J Med Inform 2024; 181:105282. [PMID: 37952405 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmedinf.2023.105282] [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] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 10/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Electronic prescribing (e-prescribing) systems have the potential to increase the quality of care and reduce costs. Officially, since 22 December 2021, e-prescribing has been mandated in Iran. This study aimed to investigate the patients' perceptions about the e-prescribing system. METHODS A descriptive-analytic cross-sectional study was conducted in 2023. The study sample comprised 394 patients who were referred to the pharmacies of five teaching hospitals. The sample size was estimated using Cochran's formula. Data collection was performed using a researcher-made questionnaire. The data were analyzed using descriptive (mean, standard deviation, frequency, and percentage) and analytic (Pearson and Spearman correlation, One-way ANOVA, and two-sample t-test) statistics. RESULTS About 85 % of the patients were aware of the e-prescribing system, and 70 % of them preferred the e-prescribing. Almost 57 % of the patients believed that e-prescribing did not impact their medication adherence. The mean score of patients' satisfaction with e-prescribing, patients' attitude toward e-prescribing, and the impact of e-prescribing on patient care was 3.91 ± 0.046, 3.45 ± 0.028, and 3.10 ± 0.050 out of 5, respectively. There was a significant fair correlation between the impact of e-prescribing on patient care and patients' attitude towards e-prescribing. Additionally, there was a significant but poor correlation between patient satisfaction with the impact of e-prescribing on patient care and patients' attitude toward e-prescribing (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION The majority of the patients demonstrated awareness of the e-prescribing system and expressed a preference for electronic prescribing. Patients reported overall positive satisfaction, as well as relatively positive perceptions and experiences with the evaluated e-prescribing system. From the patients' perspective, receiving the e-prescribing tracking code through SMS was the most popular method for tracking their prescriptions. A greater focus on patient engagement and considering their requirements and needs in the system are crucial to improve the delivery of patient-centered care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jahanpour Alipour
- Health Human Resources Research Center, School of Health Management and Information Sciences, Department of Health Information Management, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Roxana Sharifian
- Health Human Resources Research Center, School of Health Management & Information Sciences, Department of Health Information Management, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Javid Dehghan Haghighi
- Department of Community Medicine, School of Medicine, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran
| | - Mehrnaz Hashemzehi
- Department of Health Information Technology, School of Paramedical, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran
| | - Afsaneh Karimi
- Pregnancy Health Research Center, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran.
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Cassidy CE, Boulos L, McConnell E, Barber B, Delahunty-Pike A, Bishop A, Fatima N, Higgins A, Churchill M, Lively A, MacPhee SP, Misener RM, Sarty R, Wells R, Curran JA. E-prescribing and medication safety in community settings: A rapid scoping review. EXPLORATORY RESEARCH IN CLINICAL AND SOCIAL PHARMACY 2023; 12:100365. [PMID: 38023632 PMCID: PMC10679534 DOI: 10.1016/j.rcsop.2023.100365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Medication prescribing is essential for the treatment, curing, maintenance, and/or prevention of an illness and disease, however, medication errors remain common. Common errors including prescribing and administration, pose significant risk to patients. Electronic prescribing (e-prescribing) is one intervention used to enhance the safety and quality of prescribing by decreasing medication errors and reducing harm. E-prescribing in community-based settings has not been extensively examined. Objective To map and characterize the current evidence on e-prescribing and medication safety in community pharmacy settings. Methods We conducted a rapid scoping review of quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods studies reporting on e-prescribing and medication safety. MEDLINE All (OVID), Embase (Elsevier), CINAHL Full Text (EBSCOHost), and Scopus (Elsevier) databases were searched December 2022 using keywords and MeSH terms related to e-prescribing, medication safety, efficiency, and uptake. Articles were imported to Covidence and screened by two reviewers. Data were extracted by a single reviewer and verified by a second reviewer using a standardized data extraction form. Findings are reported in accordance with JBI Manual for Evidence Synthesis following thematic analysis to narratively describe results. Results Thirty-five studies were included in this review. Most studies were quantitative (n = 22), non-experimental study designs (n = 16) and were conducted in the United States (n = 18). Half of included studies reported physicians as the prescriber (n = 18), while the remaining reported a mix of nurse practitioners, pharmacists, and physician assistants (n = 6). Studies reported on types of errors, including prescription errors (n = 20), medication safety errors (n = 9), dispensing errors (n = 2), and administration errors (n = 1). Few studies examined patient health outcomes, such as adverse drug events (n = 5). Conclusions Findings indicate that most research is descriptive in nature and focused primarily on rates of prescription errors. Further research, such as experimental, implementation, and evaluation mixed-methods research, is needed to investigate the effects of e-prescribing on reducing error rates and improving patient and health system outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine E. Cassidy
- Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
- IWK Health, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Leah Boulos
- Maritime SPOR SUPPORT Unit, Nova Scotia Health, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | | | | | | | - Andrea Bishop
- Nova Scotia College of Pharmacists, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Nawal Fatima
- Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Rowan Sarty
- Nova Scotia Department of Health and Wellness, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | | | - Janet A. Curran
- Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
- IWK Health, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
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Alzahrani KO, Alshahrani SM, Alajel SM. Evaluating the effectiveness of the Ministry of Health restriction policy on seasonal antibiotic consumption trends in Saudi Arabia, 2016-2020. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1242087. [PMID: 38099146 PMCID: PMC10720327 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1242087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Understanding antibiotic consumption patterns over time is essential to optimize prescribing practices and minimizing antimicrobial resistance. This study aimed to determine whether the antibiotics restriction policy launched by the Saudi Ministry of Health in April 2018 has impacted antibiotic use by assessing changes and seasonal variations following policy enforcement. Methods: Quarterly sales data of J01 antibacterial for systemic use in standard units were obtained from the IQVIA-MIDAS database, spanning from the first quarter of 2016 to the last quarter of 2020. Antibiotics consumption was measured in defined daily doses per 1,000 inhabitant per day- in a quarter (DDDdq). A comparative analysis of antibiotic consumption pre- and post-policy periods introduction was conducted by computing the average consumption values for each period. Statistical comparison of the mean differences between the two periods were then made using independent samples t-test, Mann-Whitney U Test where needed. Time series analysis was employed to estimate the projected antibiotic consumption in the post-policy period if the restriction policy had not been implemented, which was then compared to actual consumption values to evaluate the effectiveness of the restriction policy. Results: During the pre-policy, there were seasonal trends of the total and oral antibiotic consumption through quarters, with higher consumption observed in the first and fourth quarters. In contrast, parenteral antibiotic consumption did not appear to follow a clear seasonal pattern. Following the restriction policy, there was a significant reduction in total and oral antibiotic use, with mean reductions of -96.9 DDDdq (p-value = 0.002) and -98 DDDdq (p-value = 0.002), respectively. Conversely, a significant increase in parenteral antibiotic consumption was observed with a mean increase of +1.4 DDDdq (p-value < 0.0001). The comparison between the forecasted and actual models showed that the actual antibiotics consumption for total, oral, and parenteral were lower than the corresponding forecasted values by 30%, 31%, and 34%, respectively. Conclusion: Overall, our analysis of antibiotics consumption from 2016 to 2020 displays great success for the policy implemented by the Saudi Ministry of Health in significantly reducing the total and oral use of antibiotics. However, future studies are needed to explore the increased consumption of the parenteral antibiotics as well as the persistent high consumption patterns during the fall and winter months even after the implementation of the restriction policy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khaloud O. Alzahrani
- Molecular Biology Division, Reference Laboratory for Microbiology, Executive Department of Reference Laboratories, Research and Laboratories Sector, Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saeed M. Alshahrani
- Department of Public Health, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sulaiman M. Alajel
- Reference Laboratory for Microbiology, Executive Department of Reference Laboratories, Research and Laboratories Sector, Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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AlGhadeer SZ, AlAbdullah M, Alibrahim Z, AlSalman Z, AlHaddad HM. Patients' satisfaction towards Wasfaty services in Al Ahsa province, Saudi Arabia - 2022. J Family Med Prim Care 2023; 12:2950-2955. [PMID: 38186837 PMCID: PMC10771168 DOI: 10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_1117_23] [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: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The e-prescriptions service connects primary healthcare centers and hospitals to selected community pharmacies in various locations to allow easy access to the nearest pharmacy in the neighborhood, thus facilitating the process of drug dispensing. This study aims to assess patients' satisfaction towards Wasfaty services delivered by Ministry of Health healthcare centers. Materials and Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted in Al Ahsa province in Saudi Arabia among adult patients who used Wasfaty services. An electronic Arabic questionnaire including demographic characteristics of patients and questions to assess their satisfaction level with the e-prescription "Wasfaty" service in terms of different aspects. Results A total of 481 participants were included in the study. Females represented 53.4% of them, and 28.1% were aged 50 years or over. Overall, most of the patients (84.1%) were either satisfied or strongly satisfied with the service (4.28 ± 0.57). After controlling for confounding, patients with chronic diseases were more satisfied with the "wasfaty" service compared to those without chronic diseases. The history of chronic disease was responsible for approximately 2.4% variability of patient satisfaction (r-square = 0.024). Patients' geographic region, age, sex, and educational level were not significantly associated with their satisfaction with "wasfaty" service. Conclusion The majority of patients, particularly those with chronic diseases, were satisfied with Wasfaty service. However, less satisfaction was observed regarding medication availability.
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Alshahrani AF, Dighriri IM. Patients' Satisfaction With Medication Delivery Pharmacy Services in a Tertiary Hospital in Asir, Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study. Cureus 2023; 15:e48903. [PMID: 38106798 PMCID: PMC10725249 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.48903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pharmaceutical care plays a crucial role in optimizing medication administration and improving patient health outcomes. However, medication adherence remains a challenge, with a significant percentage of patients discontinuing their medications. Value-added services (VASs), such as medication delivery, have been introduced to enhance pharmacy services and medication adherence. OBJECTIVE This study aims to evaluate satisfaction with a new medication delivery service at an Armed Forces Hospital outpatient pharmacy in Saudi Arabia and identify factors impacting utilization. METHODS A cross-sectional survey assessed patient satisfaction with a new pharmacy delivery service between January 2023 and March 2023. The target population consisted of adult patients who had used the pharmacy delivery service for at least one month. The survey contained 23 Likert scale questions assessing satisfaction across three domains: delivery process/personnel, medication quality, and pharmacist adherence to best practices. RESULTS A total of 110 patients responded to the survey, 383 invited patients; the mean age was 51.2 ± 15.3, and most were male 92 (83.6%), married 97 (88.2%), and living in urban areas 63 (57.3%). The overall satisfaction rate was 97 (88.1%), with 67 (60.9%) reporting satisfaction with the medication delivery service. On the delivery process/personnel items, over half strongly agreed that the delivery person called before arriving 59 (53.6%), medications were received on time 58 (51.8%), and the delivery person was polite 64 (58.2%). Most strongly agreed that the service helped with adherence 70 (63.6%) and saved travel costs 72 (65.5%) for medication-quality items. Most also strongly agreed that medications were properly packaged 65 (59.1%) and labeled 71 (64.5%). Regarding pharmacist practices, approximately 56 (50.9%) strongly agreed that the pharmacist provided education materials, inquired about adherence 49 (44.5%), and was respectful 55 (50%). Bivariate analyses found no significant associations between satisfaction and age, gender, residence, education, marital status, income, or disease (all p > 0.05). Satisfaction remained uniformly high across subgroups. CONCLUSION The medication delivery service demonstrated excellent patient reception regardless of its characteristics. Overall satisfaction with these services was high. There was no association between sociodemographic characteristics and the level of satisfaction. Continued monitoring and refinement could maximize the quality of pharmaceutical care afforded through innovative models supporting medication adherence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amaal F Alshahrani
- Department of Pharmacy, Armed Forces Hospital, Southern Region, Abha, SAU
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Alsahali S, Almutairi G, Aedh R, Alanezi S, Almutairi H, Anaam M, Alshammari M, Alhabib A, Alowayed A, Abdulsalim S. Perceptions of Community Pharmacists toward the National E-Prescribing Service (Wasfaty) and Exploring the Benefits and Challenges of the Service: A Descriptive Study from Qassim Region, Saudi Arabia. PHARMACY 2023; 11:152. [PMID: 37736924 PMCID: PMC10514789 DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy11050152] [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: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Electronic prescribing systems (e-prescription) for medications have many benefits, including patient safety, increase in patient satisfaction, efficiency of pharmacy work, and quality of patient care. However, few studies have been conducted to evaluate the national e-prescription system "Wasfaty" service in Saudi Arabia, which was recently adopted. OBJECTIVE The aims of this study were to explore the benefits observed through the use of the system and most frequent challenges experienced by community pharmacists in the Qassim region of Saudi Arabia. METHODS This study was conducted using a descriptive survey on a web-based platform. The target population of the study included community pharmacists in the Qassim region of Saudi Arabia who worked in pharmacy chains utilizing the e-prescription service between September 2022 and November 2022. Descriptive statistics along with multiple ordinal regression were used for data analysis. RESULTS The study population consisted of 124 pharmacists, of which 62.9% (78/124) were males and 37.1% (46/124) were females. Most of the participants had a positive perception of the e-prescription system with regard to medication safety, with 68.6% (85/124) indicating that e-prescriptions reduce the risk of dispensing errors. However, 81.5% (101/124) did not agree that the e-prescription system resulted in a reduction in workload, and 70.2% (87/124) disagreed that the service increased patient satisfaction. CONCLUSIONS The results of this study indicated that the national e-prescription system has many benefits to healthcare employees and improves their work, particularly for patient safety, reducing medication errors, and improving the management of patient medications. The participants believe that there is a need to improve communication with prescribers, showing concern about the unavailability of some medications; thus, it is important for policymakers to encourage other pharmacy chains and suppliers to join the service to increase patient access to medications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saud Alsahali
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Unaizah College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, P.O. Box 5888, Unaizah 51911, Qassim, Saudi Arabia; (G.A.); (R.A.); (S.A.); (H.A.); (M.A.); (M.A.); (A.A.); (S.A.)
| | - Ghazwaa Almutairi
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Unaizah College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, P.O. Box 5888, Unaizah 51911, Qassim, Saudi Arabia; (G.A.); (R.A.); (S.A.); (H.A.); (M.A.); (M.A.); (A.A.); (S.A.)
| | - Raghad Aedh
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Unaizah College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, P.O. Box 5888, Unaizah 51911, Qassim, Saudi Arabia; (G.A.); (R.A.); (S.A.); (H.A.); (M.A.); (M.A.); (A.A.); (S.A.)
| | - Sarah Alanezi
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Unaizah College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, P.O. Box 5888, Unaizah 51911, Qassim, Saudi Arabia; (G.A.); (R.A.); (S.A.); (H.A.); (M.A.); (M.A.); (A.A.); (S.A.)
| | - Hanan Almutairi
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Unaizah College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, P.O. Box 5888, Unaizah 51911, Qassim, Saudi Arabia; (G.A.); (R.A.); (S.A.); (H.A.); (M.A.); (M.A.); (A.A.); (S.A.)
| | - Mohammed Anaam
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Unaizah College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, P.O. Box 5888, Unaizah 51911, Qassim, Saudi Arabia; (G.A.); (R.A.); (S.A.); (H.A.); (M.A.); (M.A.); (A.A.); (S.A.)
| | - Mohammed Alshammari
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Unaizah College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, P.O. Box 5888, Unaizah 51911, Qassim, Saudi Arabia; (G.A.); (R.A.); (S.A.); (H.A.); (M.A.); (M.A.); (A.A.); (S.A.)
| | - Abdulmalik Alhabib
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Unaizah College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, P.O. Box 5888, Unaizah 51911, Qassim, Saudi Arabia; (G.A.); (R.A.); (S.A.); (H.A.); (M.A.); (M.A.); (A.A.); (S.A.)
| | - Abdullah Alowayed
- Department of Pharmaceutical Care, Alrass General Hospital, Qassim Health Cluster, P.O. Box 58883, Alrass 51921, Qassim, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Suhaj Abdulsalim
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Unaizah College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, P.O. Box 5888, Unaizah 51911, Qassim, Saudi Arabia; (G.A.); (R.A.); (S.A.); (H.A.); (M.A.); (M.A.); (A.A.); (S.A.)
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Tobaiqy M, Ainousah BE, Alorfi NM, Alghamdi A, Alqutub ST. A Study to Assess Prescription Transfer and Medicines Collection Through a New Electronic Prescription Service: A Cross-Sectional Survey. Int J Gen Med 2023; 16:3689-3699. [PMID: 37637712 PMCID: PMC10460210 DOI: 10.2147/ijgm.s432075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The introduction of electronic prescription services has been a significant development in healthcare systems worldwide. In Saudi Arabia, the Wasfaty electronic prescription service was recently introduced, aiming to streamline prescription transfer and medicine collection. Aim This study assesses the implementation of Wasfaty by investigating prescription transfer, patient satisfaction, and medicine availability among beneficiaries at the University of Jeddah. Methods A cross-sectional online questionnaire was distributed to students and staff at the University of Jeddah who had received e-prescriptions from the University Medical Centre (n = 2067) in July-December 2022. The questionnaire consisted of three sections: demographics, patient perceptions and satisfaction with the Wasfaty service, and the availability of prescribed medicines. A total of 217 completed questionnaires were received and analyzed. Results Among the respondents, a majority were female (n = 125, 57.6%). A significant proportion of participants expressed satisfaction with the initial registration process of the Wasfaty service (n = 183, 84.1%). However, a noteworthy finding was that nearly one-third of the participants reported difficulties in locating their prescribed medicines (n = 64, 29.7%). Consequently, a majority of these individuals had to seek alternative pharmacies to obtain their prescribed treatment (n = 138, 63.9%). Of concern were reports of limited access to specific pharmaceuticals, such as anti-hypertensives and antidiabetic medications, which elicited dissatisfaction among respondents. Conclusion This study sheds light on the challenges associated with the implementation of the Wasfaty electronic prescription service in Saudi Arabia. While initial registration satisfaction is notable, the study highlights issues concerning medicine availability and access to essential pharmaceuticals. Addressing these challenges requires the attention of service providers, and further investigation on a national scale is warranted to better understand and address these issues effectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mansour Tobaiqy
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Jeddah, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Bayan E Ainousah
- Pharmaceutical Chemistry Department, College of Pharmacy, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nasser M Alorfi
- Pharmacology and Toxicology Department, College of Pharmacy, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Alaa Alghamdi
- Pharmaceutical Care Department, Medical ServicesAdministration, University of Jeddah, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sulafa Tarek Alqutub
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Jeddah, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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Almaghaslah D. An analysis of pharmacy workforce capacity in Saudi Arabia. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1219528. [PMID: 37601049 PMCID: PMC10434764 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1219528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Previous reports have highlighted the core issues with the intelligence of the national pharmacy workforce reliance on non-native pharmacists, despite the increasing supply of local pharmacy graduates; limited participation of female pharmacists in the workforce; and inadequate proportions of pharmacists in primary healthcare centres, resulting in pharmaceutical services being provided without a pharmacist's supervision. Methods: The current study used a retrospective cross-sectional design and data was collected from January to May 2023. Data was retrieved from the Health Statistics Yearbook, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020 and 2021. The data included the total number of pharmacists, the number of Saudi pharmacists, the number of foreign pharmacists, the distribution of the proportions of male and female pharmacists, and the distribution of the workforce by region, sector and nationality. Data was also obtained relating to pharmacy education, including the number of pharmacy colleges, the number of pharmacy students and the number of pharmacy graduates. Results and conclusion: The capacity of the pharmacy workforce, meaning the number of pharmacists per 10,000 population, fluctuated between 2017 and 2021, with the lowest number being in 2020, a mere 7.9 pharmacists per 10,000 population. However, in 2021, the overall density of pharmacists increased to (9.04), which is above the global average (7.36 per 10,000 population). The proportion of women working in the pharmacy profession increased from 12% to 22%, and in community pharmacies from 0.3% to 7.2%, between 2016 and 2021. Another issue that still exists is a lack of proportionate and imbalance in the distribution of the pharmacy workforce across the regions. The renationalisation initiatives increased the overall proportion of Saudi pharmacists to 39% in 2021, compared to 22% in 2016. There is a need for a policy mechanism that will overcome the identified issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dalia Almaghaslah
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
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Mirza AH, Alqasomi A, El-Dahiyat F, Babar ZUD. Access to Medicines and Pharmaceutical Policy in Saudi Arabia: A Scoping Review. INTEGRATED PHARMACY RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2023; 12:137-155. [PMID: 37484573 PMCID: PMC10356550 DOI: 10.2147/iprp.s410262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction This scoping review includes studies on pharmaceutical access, shortages, generics, availability, pharmacoeconomics, and pricing restrictions. The study's findings may aid in developing excellent pharmaceutical and access policies in the country. Objective To conduct a scoping review documenting access to medicines and Pharmaceutical Policy in Saudi Arabia. Methodology The PRISMA-ScR guidelines were used to perform a scoping review. The articles were screened using databases from Google Scholar, EBSCO, Science Direct, and the University of Huddersfield Library. The selection, aims, results, and conclusion of each original research publication published between 2010 and 2022 were evaluated. To categorize the articles, a theme analysis was done. Results This study includes nineteen publications. The chosen articles revealed four themes. Among these topics were: Access to medications 36.84% Pharmacoeconomic 36.84%), which were the predominant theme followed by Generic Medicines 15.80%, and Cancer drug financing 10.54%. There are myriad challenges related to high-cost medicines. Access restrictions to medications have significant effects on patient morbidity and mortality; as a result, policy decision-makers frequently consider this issue. Access to medicines suffers budgetary limitations and the increasing cost of innovative medicines. Access to medicines for all patients could be significantly impacted by delays in patient access to new therapies. Conclusion The available evidence revealed that Saudi Arabia's healthcare system has numerous issues ranging from cancer drug financing, medicine shortages, and access issue. In order to achieve the highest health standards possible, it is crucial that each individual has access to medicines and has the financial, physical, and social means to do so. However, the price of some medications can be prohibitive for people who need to obtain them. The study's outcomes could help the country develop pharmaceutical and access policies related to medicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmer Hameed Mirza
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Huddersfield, Huddersfield, UK
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulmajeed Alqasomi
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
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Alshammari TM, Alsubait SI, Alenzi KA, Almalki ZS. Estimating the potential economic impact of the Wasfaty program on costs of antidiabetic treatment: An initiative for the digital transformation of health. Saudi Pharm J 2023; 31:1029-1035. [PMID: 37250361 PMCID: PMC10209126 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsps.2023.04.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The Saudi health care transformation is taking place through the implementation of many initiatives and programs to serve Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to improve health care services by focusing on digitalization and privatization. This study aimed to evaluate the economic impact of implementing the new digital health transformation initiative (Wasfaty service) on the health care budget using diabetes mellitus as an example. Methods This study presents a cost analysis evaluation following the implementation of the Wasfaty program during the period between 2017 and 2021. The study compared the pre-Wasfaty period and the Wasfaty period in terms of direct medical costs. Data sources were the Ministry of Health for pre-Wasfaty data and the National Unified Procurement Company, which runs the Wasfaty program, for Wasfaty data. The study focuses on diabetic medications for outpatients. This health economic evaluation used the cost per visit, and sensitivity analyses were conducted utilizing the cost per patient according to the prevalence of diabetes mellitus. Results After implementing the transformation using the Wasfaty service, the estimated annual mean cost savings per visit were USD 109.18 (SAR 409.43), and the cost savings per patient with a prevalence of 11% were USD 13.89 (SAR 52.1). The saving costs were USD 11,750,600 (SAR 44,064,750) for human resources and USD 97,473,469 (SAR 365,525,508) for pharmacies' operation costs without including warehouse expenditures. The savings from the clinical decision support system preventing undesirable medication costs were estimated at USD 9,842,720 (SAR 36,910,201), and savings from the prevention of undesirable adverse events were estimated at USD 137,332,615 (SAR 514,997,308) for a 6% prediction. The total healthcare expenditure savings were USD 258,762,981 to 274,972,971 (SAR 970,361,178 ± 1,031,148,640). Conclusions Implementing the new digitization and privatization initiatives (i.e., the Wasfaty program) as a result of the transformation in the health care sector had led to a significant reduction in health care expenditures and cost savings with respect to clinical and pharmacy services using diabetes mellitus as an example.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thamir M. Alshammari
- College of Pharmacy, Almaarefa University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Medication Safety Research Chair, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Khalidah A. Alenzi
- Regional Drug Information & Pharmacovigilance Center, Ministry of Health, Tabuk, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ziyad S. Almalki
- College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Alkharj, Saudi Arabia
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Abdulsalim S, Farooqui M, Alshammari MS, Alotaibi M, Alhazmi A, Alqasomi A, Altowayan WM. Evaluation of Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices about Pharmacovigilance among Community Pharmacists in Qassim, Saudi Arabia. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:3548. [PMID: 36834240 PMCID: PMC9958751 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20043548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2022] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pharmacovigilance (PV) is an essential activity to detect adverse drug reactions (ADRs) and ensure patient safety. Hence, we aimed to evaluate knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding PV among community pharmacists in Qassim, Saudi Arabia. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted by using a validated questionnaire after obtaining ethical approval from the Deanship of Scientific Research, Qassim University. The sample size was calculated based on the total number of pharmacists in the Qassim area by using Raosoft, Inc. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 20 was used for data entry and analysis. Ordinal logistic regression was performed to identify the predictors of KAP. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS A total of 209 community pharmacists participated in the study; 62.9% of them defined the PV correctly, and 59% of them defined ADRs correctly. However, only 17.2% knew where to report ADRs. Interestingly, the majority of participants (92.9%) reported that it is necessary to report ADRs, and 73.8% of them were willing to report ADRs. A total of 53.8% of the participants identified ADRs during their careers; however, only 21.9% reported ADRs. Barriers discourage ADR reporting; the majority of the participants (85.6%) do not know how to report ADRs. CONCLUSION Community pharmacists who participated in the study were knowledgeable about PV, and their attitude towards reporting ADRs was highly positive. However, the number of reported ADRs was low because of the lack of knowledge on how and where to report ADRs. Continuous education and motivation about ADRs reporting and PV are warranted among community pharmacists for the rational use of medications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suhaj Abdulsalim
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Unaizah College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, Buraydah 52571, Saudi Arabia
| | - Maryam Farooqui
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Unaizah College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, Buraydah 52571, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed Salem Alshammari
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Unaizah College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, Buraydah 52571, Saudi Arabia
| | - Meshal Alotaibi
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, University of Hafr Al Batin, Hafr Al Batin 39524, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulfattah Alhazmi
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, College of Pharmacy, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 24381, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulmajeed Alqasomi
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, Buraydah 52471, Saudi Arabia
| | - Waleed Mohammad Altowayan
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, Buraydah 52471, Saudi Arabia
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Almanasef M. Attitudes of the general public toward community pharmacy services in Saudi Arabia: A cross-sectional study. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1092215. [PMID: 36908423 PMCID: PMC9998947 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1092215] [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: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Aim This research was conducted to evaluate the attitudes of the general public toward community pharmacy services in Saudi Arabia. Methods The current study followed a cross-sectional design using an online anonymous self-administered questionnaire. The study was conducted in Saudi Arabia between February and April 2022. The study participants were selected and recruited using a convenience sampling strategy. The questionnaire was adapted from previous work and involved four sections: demographic information, use of community pharmacy, perception and willingness to use community pharmacist services, and barriers to approaching a community pharmacist for advice. Results and conclusions A total of 449 participants agreed to take part in this study and completed the questionnaire. Just above half (55%) of the participants indicated that they had visited a community pharmacy at least once a month over the last 12 months. The most frequently reported reason for visiting community pharmacies was to buy over-the-counter (OTC) medications. The majority (n = 318) of the participants were satisfied or highly satisfied with community pharmacy services in Saudi Arabia. A willingness to use community pharmacy services was expressed mostly for the essential community pharmacist roles, involving selecting over-the-counter products, management of minor ailments, selecting non-pharmaceuticals and receiving counseling on using medications. However, an unwillingness was noted to approach a community pharmacist for counseling on alcohol dependence and drug misuse. Lack of privacy in the community pharmacy was found to be the most frequently reported barrier that would hinder individuals from approaching community pharmacists to get help or advice. Policymakers in Saudi Arabia could considerably advance the community pharmacy practice and improve the public utilization of various community pharmacist services beyond their limited essential roles such as dispensing and counseling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona Almanasef
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
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