Questions: 1. Over the years, the community pharmacy practice has evolved to meet the current challenges and demands. In relation to this, does information technology play a vital role? In what way? (10 points) - Yes, the practice of community pharmacy is developing, and information technology is essential to that process. Information technology has revolutionized community pharmacy practice by enhancing medication safety, improving workflow efficiency, enabling remote services, and facilitating data-driven decision-making. It has significantly changed how pharmacists and pharmacy staff manage and deliver healthcare services. It is essential to maintain patient-centered care and maximize pharmacy service delivery in the current healthcare environment.
2. List down information technologies being utilized in community pharmacies. Provide a
short description of each. (5 points) 1. Pharmacy Management Systems: Software programs that automate numerous processes in a community pharmacy are known as pharmacy management systems. They deal with things like processing prescriptions, managing inventories, creating patient profiles, billing, and reporting. These systems aid in streamlining processes, boosting effectiveness, and improving patient safety. 2. Electronic Prescription (e-prescribing): E-prescribing, often known as electronic prescribing, allows medical experts to electronically deliver prescriptions to neighborhood pharmacies. It does away with the need for handwritten or printed prescriptions, lowering mistakes and boosting productivity. Real-time access to patient medication histories and warnings about drug interactions is another feature of e- prescribing systems. 3. Electronic Medication Administration Records (eMAR): In healthcare facilities, such as neighborhood pharmacies, drug administration is documented using eMAR systems. They offer real-time documentation of prescriptions prescribed to patients and take the place of paper-based medication administration records. Medication management is enhanced, and medication mistakes are reduced thanks to eMAR systems. 4. Barcode Scanning Technology: Barcode scanning technology is used in community pharmacies to scan barcodes on medication packages. Scanning barcodes ensures accurate identification and tracking of medications, reducing the risk of dispensing errors. Barcode scanners can be integrated with pharmacy management systems for seamless inventory management. 5. Electronic Health Records (EHR): Electronic health records store and manage patient health information electronically. Community pharmacies might have access to details from a patient's electronic health record (EHR), including their medical history, allergies, and pertinent clinical data. Better coordination and communication amongst healthcare professionals are made possible by integration with EHR systems. 3. In the Philippines, what do you think about the utilization of community pharmacies of the technologies you listed on Question #2? (HINT: Discussing the economic situation, IT infrastructure might help you in answering the question) (15 points) - In the Philippines, the utilization of technologies in community pharmacies can have several benefits and challenges, particularly when considering the economic situation and IT infrastructure of the country. considering these factors Pharmacy Management Systems, Electronic Prescription (e-prescribing), Electronic Medication Administration Records (eMAR, Barcode Scanning Technology, Electronic Health Records (EHR) are the utilization of technologies in community pharmacies in the Philippines that has potential to enhance patient care, improve medication management, and bridge gaps in healthcare access. However, factors such as the economic situation and IT infrastructure must be considered for successful implementation and widespread adoption throughout the country.
Reference/s: (2022, July 13). Pharmacy Mangement System: Benefits, Features, and Providers of Pharmacy Software. https://www.altexsoft.com/blog/pharmacy-management-system/