Global Adoption of Telepharmacy: Challenges, Opportunities, and Implementation Strategies

Abstract

Telepharmacy, a rapidly evolving telehealth application, has the potential to revolutionize healthcare delivery by
providing remote pharmaceutical services, improving access to care, and addressing healthcare disparities. This
review examines the global adoption of telepharmacy, focusing on the challenges, opportunities, and implementation
strategies across various countries. While developed nations such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and the
United Kingdom have successfully integrated telepharmacy into their healthcare systems, low- and middle-income
countries (LMICs) face significant barriers to adoption. These obstacles include inadequate technological
infrastructure, a lack of regulatory frameworks, financial constraints, workforce limitations, and cultural resistance.
The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the adoption of telepharmacy worldwide, highlighting its potential to
ensure the continuity of care and improve patient outcomes. However, the implementation of telepharmacy in
LMICs remains hindered by digital literacy gaps, data privacy concerns, and limited awareness among health
care professionals and the public. In Saudi Arabia, the adoption of telepharmacy is gaining momentum; however,
challenges persist, including the need for comprehensive regulatory structures, technological advancements, and
cultural acceptance. To fully harness the benefits of telepharmacy, policymakers, healthcare organizations, and
technology providers must collaborate to establish supportive regulations, invest in digital infrastructure, provide
training for healthcare professionals, and promote public awareness. By leveraging the lessons learned from
successful telepharmacy models and addressing context-specific challenges, countries can optimize the delivery of
pharmaceutical care, improve medication adherence, and enhance patient outcomes in the digital era.