Investigation of the Current Status of Information That Outpatients Would Like to Receive from Community Pharmacists

Abstract

As patient care evolves, there is an increasing expectation for community pharmacists to participate in patient-centered care. To improve outpatient care, efficient sharing of patient information between hospitals and community pharmacies is necessary. This study surveys patients’ opinions and experiences concerning their understanding of information sharing between community pharmacists and hospitals, the types of information patients are interested in, and how patients relate to community pharmacists. In conducting this survey, the authors sought the cooperation of member pharmacies of the Ito Pharmaceutical Association, a general incorporated association, and conducted the survey at five community pharmacies. Survey participants consisted of consenting patients who used the community pharmacies during a period of approximately one month from June 2, 2023. Overall, there were 112 respondents to the questionnaire. Of the respondents, 56.3% of patients thought that information concerning their consultation was immediately communicated to the community pharmacy. Topics most important to patients included “side effects and their extent,” followed by “why the prescription drug was changed.” About half of the respondents were unaware that community pharmacies could provide patient information to hospitals. This indicates a need for community pharmacists to better inform patients of their services. Given these responses, an online-based patient information sharing system is being created as a priority to improve communication and information sharing. Ultimately, the mode of information shared requires careful evaluation to ensure that the expertise of community pharmacists in dealing with individual patients can enhance personalized patient care and treatment outcomes.