Telepharmacy: A Systematic Review of Field Application, Benefits, Limitations, and Applicability During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Telemed J E Health. 2023 Feb;29(2):209-221. doi: 10.1089/tmj.2021.0575. Epub 2022 Jun 27.

Abstract

Introduction: Telepharmacy is widely known as the delivery of pharmacy care offered by registered pharmacists and pharmacies using telecommunication technologies to patients at a distance. We conducted a systematic review of the reported usages, benefits, and limitations of telepharmacy models worldwide to further clarify the pros and cons of a telepharmacy model. Methods: A total of 39 relevant articles was included after searching for articles with a fixed term on four databases, including PubMed, Virtual Health Library (VHL), Global Health Library (GHL), and Google Scholar, as of April 2021. Results: Our review suggested that telepharmacy has played an essential role in addressing pharmacist shortages and helping patients both safely and effectively administer medications in underserved areas. During the COVID-19 pandemic, remote dispensing and counseling are effective measures to avoid infection. Conclusion: Telepharmacy could potentially replace or complement pharmaceutical-related activities, facilitating future innovation in the health care industry.

Keywords: pharmaceutical activities; rural areas; systematic review; telemedicine; telepharmacy.

Publication types

  • Systematic Review
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • COVID-19*
  • Humans
  • Pandemics
  • Pharmaceutical Services*
  • Telemedicine*