(245) Benefits of Telepharmacy Services for Improving Medication Safety in Cardiovascular Diseases

Publication Number: 1290

Background: The need for novel approaches in the provision of pharmaceutical care has been emphasized by the current healthcare challenges namely - the aging population, increasing healthcare expenditures, and the pandemic crisis. Although telepharmacy has not yet proved its efficacy and cost-effectiveness, it is a new opportunity for the care of patients with cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). CVDs are the leading cause of death in developed countries.

Objectives: The aim of this study is to assess the benefits and barriers in the provision of telepharmacy services for CVD patients and their impact on medication safety.

Methods: The databases PubMed, Embase, Scopus and Google Scholar were searched for relevant studies with the keywords: telepharmacy, pharmaceutical care, CVDs, hypertension, medication safety. Data published in the last 10 years (2011-2021) was analyzed. Review articles and studies not written in English were excluded from the study.

Results: A total of 13 research articles were included in this systematic review. The studies we analyzed vary in the methodology and design, the analyzed outcomes and the type of telepharmacy service that is used. The majority of studies are descriptive reports of particular telepharmacy program. In comparison to traditional pharmacy services, telepharmacy has proved its efficiency in improving medication safety. The use of blood pressure telemonitoring, patient counseling, and other telepharmacy services have been beneficial for patients that need continuous care and medication advice. Collaborations between pharmacists and physicians in patient education have been the most successful interventions related to cardiovascular diseases.

Conclusions: The management of patient safety in the treatment of CVDs represents a challenge for medical professionals. The number of studies that evaluate the clinical effectiveness of telepharmacy is limited. The benefits of telepharmacy have improved the access to medical care and patient adherence. The promising results of studies need further investigation.