Awareness, perceptions, and concerns of community pharmacists regarding online pharmacies: A Cross-sectional survey
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Keywords
Online pharmacies, awareness, perception, concerns, community pharmacist, Jordan
Abstract
Background: The numerous benefits offered by online pharmacies have led to their spread in many countries. These pharmacies provide consumers with a source for purchasing drugs and services online and delivering them to their homes. Objective: To explore the concerns, awareness, and perceptions of community pharmacists regarding online pharmacies. Method: This was a web-based survey conducted from November 2022 to October 2023 through the distribution of a self-administered questionnaire. The pharmacists were approached at their locations and asked to fill out the questionnaire. Results: A total of 478 pharmacists agreed to participate in this study, with a response rate of 88.5% (478/540). The mean awareness score for all participants was 11.94 ±3.72 out of 25 (median: 12, IQR: 6). And the perception score was 17.07 ±5.42 out of 30 (median: 17, IQR: 6). Around three-quarters (73.01%) of the participants are willing to offer online services, but most of them are concerned about the safe delivery of medications (63.18%). Conclusion: In conclusion, the study underscores the need for targeted interventions to enhance community pharmacists' awareness of online pharmacies, particularly in Amman. Factors such as recent graduation, social media activity, and frequent internet use play crucial roles. These findings address critical gaps in understanding Jordanian pharmacists' concerns, perceptions, and awareness regarding online pharmacy services.
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