Geospatial Pharmacy Navigator: A Web and Mobile Application Integrating Geographical Information System (GIS) for Medicine Accessibility

Abstract

This project introduces a web and mobile application that integrates Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to identify pharmacies with available prescription drugs, addressing the expanding role of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in healthcare. The primary objective is to offer the general public an easy-to-use platform that locates the closest pharmacy having the searched drugs or medicines. Adopting the Rapid Application Development methodology ensures continuous engagement with stakeholders, allowing developers to closely align the application with user requirements. Essential elements of the web platform include chat functionality, inventory management, pharmacy oversight, and the display of medication listings. General users may check medication lists, search pharmacies, find pharmacy locations and the best routes, search for specific medications, access comprehensive medication information, and more with the mobile application. Fifty respondents, comprising five pharmacists and forty-five general users, expressed overall satisfaction with the system's functionality, emphasizing its ease of use and straightforward navigation across most features. This project not only amplifies the importance of ICT in the healthcare industry, but it also shows how technology can be successfully integrated to improve accessibility and expedite healthcare procedures for both the general public and professionals.