Cost-Effectiveness of Pharmacist Care in Diabetes Management: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Introduction In recent years, the role of pharmacists has undergone significant transformation to become more patient-centered and involved in managing chronic diseases. Nonetheless, it remains unclear whether pharmacist involvement in diabetes management is cost-effective. This study aimed to systematically review the cost-effectiveness and reporting quality in comprehensive economic evaluations of pharmacist management compared to standard care in diabetes. Methods Eligible studies included cost-effectiveness analyses employing pharmacist professional services as the intervention for diabetes. A literature search was conducted in the bibliographic databases Pubmed, Scopus, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), and the International Health Technology Assessment (HTA) database from their inception until July 2023. Two independent reviewers performed title, abstract, full-text screening, and data abstraction and assessed the quality of reporting and methodological approaches using the Consolidated Health Economic Evaluation Reporting Standards (CHEERS 2022) checklists. Results Twelve studies were identified with an average research quality score of 19.8, including cost-utility ( n = 5) and cost-effectiveness ( n = 7) analyses, with only four studies rated as high quality. The efficacy data were derived from randomized controlled trials ( n = 7), retrospective studies ( n = 2), and published literature sources ( n = 2). Half of the included studies were conducted in high-income countries, while the other half was in upper-middle and lower-middle-income countries, respectively. Despite significant variations in the cost of pharmacist intervention, consistent findings demonstrate that pharmacist involvement in diabetes management is more cost-effective or even cost-saving than standard care, primarily attributed to better glycemic control, enhanced patient compliance, and reduced risks of medication-related problems. Conclusion This systematic review substantiates that pharmacist involvement in diabetes management is cost-effective compared with standard care. However, the overall quality of reporting needs to be improved, and high-quality evidence is urgently needed to support healthcare decision-making in pharmacy practice. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s13300-023-01505-2.

Under the Tech Umbrella: Assessing the Landscape of Telemedicine Innovations (Telemechron Study)

“…In the rapidly evolving landscape of healthcare, technological advancements have reshaped disease diagnosis, treatment, and management, offering opportunities for improved quality of life [ 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 ]. However, the widespread adoption of these technologies introduces challenges and risks, highlighting the critical role of technology assessment.…”

“…However, the widespread adoption of these technologies introduces challenges and risks, highlighting the critical role of technology assessment. This systematic and multidisciplinary process evaluates the impact of innovations on public health, considering benefits, risks, and costs [ 2 , 3 ]. In healthcare, technology assessment is essential for responsible integration, providing insights into advantages and limitations, guiding clinical and policy decisions, and optimizing resource management [ 4 ].…”