Investigating Pharmacy Value-Added Services (PVAS) in Community Pharmacies: A Study in Urban and Suburban Areas of Perak, Malaysia

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Community pharmacies monitor and deliver health services to the community, apart from dispensing medications. PVAS are extended services provided to enhance pharmaceutical care. At present, digital technology is also needed as a platform for PVAS. This study was conducted to investigate the PVAS available in community pharmacies, to identify the practice differences in urban and suburban areas, and to identify the pharmacists’ readiness to use digital technology. Methods: This cross sectional study was conducted face-to-face and via online. Validated-questionnaire consisted of three-parts, was distributed to community pharmacists (CPs) in urban and suburban areas of Perak. Survey-link was provided either via email or posted to social media. Paper-based survey was given to the CPs at the premise. Sample size was calculated using Raosoft Software. Data were analysed using SPSS V.20 descriptively. Results and Discussion: Sixty-one (N=61) CPs responded; female (57%), age 36-40 years-old (29%), and Malays (44%). The most provided PVAS are health screening (100%), supplement-TCM consultation (79%), and diet-lifestyle counselling (77%). CPs also provide counselling for smoking cessation (36%) and weight management (44%). Eighty-five percent of CPs in urban areas used digital technology as a platform for PVAS. For readiness to use technology, only 49% of the CPs were ready. Home delivery (51%) and mobile pharmacy (40%) were chosen as the most appropriate PVAS. Conclusion: No significant difference was found between PVAS provided by urban and suburban pharmacies. Although the CPs in urban areas prefer digital technology for certain PVAS, most of the CPs are already prepared with knowledge and budget for new future-PVAS