Evaluation of pharmaceutical care services in the Middle East Countries: a review of studies of 2013–2020

Abstract

Introduction Pharmaceutical care services (PCs) have evolved significantly over the last few decades, with a greater focus on patient’s safety and proven effectiveness in a wide range of contexts. Many of the evidence supporting this technique comes from the United States, the evaluation and adoption of (PCs) which differ greatly across the globe. Objective The goal of this study was to identify and assess the efficacy of pharmaceutical care services in various pharmaceutical aspects throughout seventeen Middle Eastern nations. Method The Arkesy and O’Malley technique was used to conduct a scoping review. It was conducted using PubMed/Medline, Scopus, Cochrane Library, Springer Link, Clinical Trials, and Web of Science etc. The Van Tulder Scale was utilized in randomized trials research, whereas the dawn and black checklists were used in non-randomized trials research. A descriptive and numerical analysis of selected research was done. The scope of eligible PCs, pharmaceutical implementers, study outcomes, and quality were all identified by a thematic review of research. Results There were about 431,753 citations found in this study, and 129 publications were found to be eligible for inclusion after analysing more than 271 full-text papers. The study design was varied, with 43 (33.3%) RCTs and 86 (66.7%) n-RCTs. Thirty-three (25.6%) of the studies were published in 2020. Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey were home to the majority of the studies (25.6%, 16.3%, and 11.6%) respectively. Thirty-seven studies (19.7%) were concerned with resolving drug related problems (DRPs), whereas 27 (14.4%) were concerned with increasing quality of life (QOL) and 23 (12.2%) with improving drug adherence. Additionally, the research revealed that the average ratings of the activities provided to patients improved every year. Conclusion Studies in the Middle East continue to provide evidence supporting the positive impact of pharmaceutical care services on both hard and soft outcomes measured in most studies. Yet there was rare focus on the value of the implemented services. Thus, rigorous evaluation of the economic impact of implemented pharmaceutical care services in the Middle East and assessment of their sustainability is must.

The digital transformation in pharmacy: embracing online platforms and the cosmeceutical paradigm shift

“…Despite these advances in regulatory collaboration, it is notable that currently no specific regulations have been detected for online purchases from online pharmacies in the Middle East, highlighting a significant area for potential regulatory development. Furthermore, a notable transition is observed in pharmacy education across several Middle Eastern nations, with an inclination towards introducing Pharm.D degrees to replace traditional pharmacy degrees, reflective of evolving educational standards in the pharmaceutical field [ 128 ]. This shift in education parallels the need for updated regulatory frameworks, especially in the context of the burgeoning online pharmacy sector.…”

Evolution and Advancements in the Development of Pharmaceutical Care Services

“…The historical evolution of pharmaceutical care services showcases a remarkable transformation from a transactional, product-oriented approach to a patient-centric model focused on improving medication outcomes and overall patient wellbeing 4 .…”

“…Traditionally, pharmacies were primarily concerned with dispensing medications prescribed by healthcare providers. The pharmacist's role was centered around accurately preparing and providing medications to patients, often with limited interaction beyond the transactional process 4 . This approach, while essential, did not fully harness the expertise of pharmacists in ensuring the safe and effective use of medications.…”

Impact of pharmacist-supported transition of care services in the Middle East and North Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis

“…Considerably, the prevailing evidence predominantly originated from the developed Western world, primarily mirrors the healthcare systems of the studies encompassed and may not directly translate to other regions or transitional care (TOC) programmes. The MENA region is diverse in its healthcare systems’ structures, financing, and challenges (Katoue et al, 2022 ), as well as in the education, training, privileges, and practicesof pharmacists (Sallom et al, 2023 ). Despite advancements in clinical pharmacy education, practice, and research in the MENA region (Badreldin et al, 2020 ; Boura et al, 2022 ; Hammad et al, 2017 ; Obaid et al, 2022 ), there is a clear gap in understanding how pharmacists can optimise transitional care process.…”