A collaborative telepharmacy model for dispensing and informed delivery from hospital to community pharmacies.

Abstract

Background: This study examines the implementation of a collaborative telepharmacy programme in an outpatient pharmaceutical care unit (OPCU) at a tertiary hospital. The programme coordinates between the hospital pharmacy, community pharmacies, a pharmaceutical distributor, and the regional official college of pharmacists to optimise medication dispensing and delivery to outpatients.

Methods: The programme addressed challenges in operations, logistics, technology, legality, training and information. A protocol was developed defining the collaborative dispensing circuit, including criteria for patient selection and prioritisation.

Results: Over 39 months, 13 310 shipments were made to 1039 patients, averaging 17 daily. Each patient received about 13 deliveries. A total of 14 283 medications from 258 specialties were dispensed. The programme saved 512 534 km and 542 164 min (356 days) in travel. Each patient saved approximately 493 km and 522 min, reducing CO2 emissions by 58-116 kg per patient, or 72-145 tonnes overall. A survey of 130 patients revealed a 93% preference for this model over home or healthcare facility delivery.

Discussion: The implementation of telepharmacy programmes for dispensing hospital medication to community pharmacies marks a significant advancement in patient care. Initially rare, telepharmacy is now widespread, overcoming previous barriers. Programmes show similar effectiveness to home delivery, improving workflow and safety. Future improvements may include remote monitoring tools and video calls. Despite some limitations, such as economic analysis and tracking, telepharmacy has proven beneficial for patients, offering cost savings and enhanced confidentiality.

Conclusion: The collaborative telepharmacy circuit was efficiently and safely implemented, offering an innovative approach that meets the needs and expectations of patients in the OPCU.