Current Status of and Attitudes toward Digitization/ICT Utilization for Community Pharmacist Duties

Abstract

The introduction and utilization of information and communication technology (ICT) for Community pharmacy (specifically, that for pharmacies is called pharmaceutical technology: Pharma Tech) have become indispensable for better clinical outcomes (including pharmaceutical care), health services, and patient convenience. However, it has not been examined whether ICT utilization is welcome to or being promoted among pharmacists as Pharma Tech users. This study examined the current status of digitization/ICT utilization for pharmacy pharmacists’ duties and their attitudes toward this trend, including recognition of the necessity of promoting it and resistance to it.

Among all pharmacists, 86.7% recognized the necessity of promoting digitization/ICT utilization in their workplaces. Regarding the status of ICT utilization between 2 types of pharmacies, the rates for the following items were significantly higher among chain than independent pharmacies: electronic medication history, electronic medication handbooks, pharmaceutical inventory management system, post-dose follow-up system, prescription transmission system, dispensing error prevention system, and the introduction of electronic payment function. The rates for pharmacy pharmacies’ positive attitudes toward the promotion of digitization/ICT utilization, progress, training for ICT device use, and des-ignating the person in charge specializing in ICT were also significantly higher among chain pharmacies.

The results revealed differences between independent and chain pharmacies in the status of digitization/ICT utilization, suggesting that, other than financial factors on the part of the organizations, ICT device vendors are not creating value commensurate with costs at present.