Hospital Pharmacists Research Articles

Potential healthcare resource use and associated costs of every 2 month injectable cabotegravir plus rilpivirine long-acting regimen implementation in the Spanish National Healthcare System compared to daily oral HIV treatments

IntroductionHIV treatment currently consists of daily oral antiretroviral therapy (ART). Cabotegravir + rilpivirine long-acting (CAB + RPV LA) is the first ART available in Spain administered every 2 months through intramuscular injection by a healthcare professional (HCP). The objective of this analysis was to assess potential healthcare resource use (HRU) and cost impact of implementing CAB + RPV LA vs. daily oral ART at National Health System (NHS) hospitals.MethodsOnline quantitative interviews and cost analysis were performed. Infectious disease specialists (IDS), hospital pharmacists (HP) and nurses were asked about their perception of potential differences in HRU between CAB + RPV LA vs. daily oral ART, among other concepts of interest. Spanish official tariffs were applied as unit costs to the HRU estimates (€2022).Results120 responders (n = 40 IDS, n = 40 HP, n = 40 nurses) estimated an average number of annual visits per patient by speciality (IDS, HP, and nurse, respectively) of 3.3 vs. 3.7; 4.4 vs. 6.2; 6.1 vs. 3.9, for CAB + RPV LA vs. daily oral ART, and 3.0 vs. 3.2; 4.8 vs. 5.8; 6.9 vs. 4.9, respectively when adjusting by corresponding specialist responses. Estimation by the total sample led to an annual total cost per patient of €2,076 vs. €2,473, being €2,032 vs. €2,237 after adjusting by corresponding HCP, for CAB + RPV LA vs. daily oral ART.ConclusionsThese results suggest that the implementation of CAB + RPV LA in NHS hospitals would not incur in increased HRU-related costs compared to current daily oral ARTs, being potentially neutral or even cost-saving.

Informing inclusive and affirmative hospital pharmacy services for 2SLGBTQ+ patients.

In an effort to expedite the publication of articles, AJHP is posting manuscripts online as soon as possible after acceptance. Accepted manuscripts have been peer-reviewed and copyedited, but are posted online before technical formatting and author proofing. These manuscripts are not the final version of record and will be replaced with the final article (formatted per AJHP style and proofed by the authors) at a later time. Two-spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (2SLGBTQ+) people disproportionally experience health disparities, and hospital pharmacists, given their accessibility and expertise in medication management, are ideally positioned to provide care to this vulnerable population. This study investigated the barriers and facilitators faced by hospital pharmacists when providing care to 2SLGBTQ+ patients, with the goal of informing enhancement of quality care provided to these patients. A mixed-methods triangulation design was utilized, comprising an online survey and qualitative interviews with Canadian hospital pharmacists. The survey used the lens of systemic oppression as a framework and assessed pharmacists' perceptions and knowledge. Survey data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis. A total of 129 individuals participated in the survey, and 15 participants were interviewed. Eleven themes were identified, and findings revealed a complex web of individual, interpersonal, and systemic barriers and facilitators. Pharmacists expressed a lack of proficiency and confidence in discussing 2SLGBTQ+ health topics, further compounded by an apprehension to engage and a fear of causing harm. Pharmacists desired support from their leadership teams and organizations in the form of access to resources, time to engage in training, and workplace environments that encourage discussions about 2SLGBTQ+ health. Hospital pharmacists in Canada are willing to provide inclusive care to 2SLGBTQ+ patients but face significant barriers. These findings highlight the need for comprehensive education, supportive workplace cultures, and accessible resources to address health disparities and improve care for 2SLGBTQ+ individuals.

Investigation on pharmaceutical care barriers perceived by clinical pharmacists in secondary and tertiary hospitals in China

ObjectiveThis study aimed to understand the current status of pharmaceutical care barriers perceived by clinical pharmacists in secondary and tertiary hospitals in China, and to provide a reference for further improving the quality of pharmaceutical care and perfecting the construction of pharmaceutical care system in China. MethodsThe PCBS-CH scale (Pharmaceutical Care Barriers Scale in Chinese Hospitals) was used to measure the perceived pharmaceutical care barriers of clinical pharmacists, and descriptive statistical analysis was used to identify the main barriers faced by clinical pharmacists. The different barriers perceived by clinical pharmacists with various characteristics was investigated by subgroup analysis. ResultsA total of 1266 clinical pharmacists from 31 provinces were finally included. The results revealed that the main barriers faced by clinical pharmacists in the process of implementing pharmaceutical care included lack of additional staffing, lack of time for pharmaceutical care provision and continuing education, and lack of an electronic information system and prescription evaluation system for pharmaceutical care. Subgroup analysis found that clinical pharmacists who are without training (P < 0.001), worked in tertiary hospitals (P = 0.036), and had other training certificates (P < 0.001) perceived higher pharmaceutical care barriers. ConclusionClinical pharmacists in secondary and tertiary hospitals in China have a low perception of overall pharmaceutical care barriers, but still face some important barriers. In order to promote the development of pharmaceutical care in China, the quality of clinical pharmacists should be improved, strict entry criteria should be established, clear responsibilities should be defined, the rights of female clinical pharmacists should be protected, and hospital facilities should be upgraded.

Trend analysis of pharmacist involvement in cancer care in Japan from 2015 to 2020: A nationwide survey study on hospital pharmacy practice.

Pharmacists are needed as members of oncology teams. The Japanese Society of Hospital Pharmacists (JSHP) conducts a nationwide survey annually to analyze the actual situation and generate fundamental information about hospital pharmacy practice in Japan. Using data from this large-scale survey, we described pharmacists' involvement in cancer chemotherapy. We explored the factors related to the acceleration of pharmacists' tasks or involvement in clinical practice, primarily in oncology. Data were obtained from annual surveys conducted by JSHP from 2015 to 2020. All variables were expressed as categorical variables and tabulated. The Chi-square and Fisher's exact tests were used to compare the categorical variables. The Cochran-Armitage trend test was used to identify significant trends. From 2015 to 2020, 22,362 responses were recorded. After applying the exclusion criteria, 20,906 were analyzed. The proportion of hospitals enrolling pharmacists with oncology-related certifications significantly increased in all hospitals providing cancer care. Multivariable logistic regression analysis indicated that a smaller number of beds per pharmacist significantly correlated with additional fees for outpatient pharmacy services (p = 0.0002 for trend). Hospitals charging increased fees for outpatient oncology pharmacy services were associated with a smaller number of beds per pharmacist, regardless of hospital size. A balance between the number of beds and pharmacists, particularly certified oncology pharmacists, is crucial for safe and high-quality cancer treatment.

Evaluation of an interactive education workshop on hospital pharmacists’ ethical reasoning: an observational study

BackgroundPharmacists are often faced with scenarios in practice that require application of ethical reasoning and decision-making skills. There is limited research on the ethical decision-making processes of hospital pharmacists. Pharmacists who are compassionate and put the interests of their patients first are thought to positively impact on patient care, but there are often complex health-care system pressures in the hospital setting that cause pharmacists to behave in ways that may conflict with professional values and behaviours. This multisite study aimed to evaluate an interactive education workshop on hospital pharmacists’ ethical reasoning skills and explore the need for ongoing training and support.MethodsThis mixed-methods study was carried out across two health services including three hospitals. It incorporated a pre-workshop survey, a feedback survey immediately post-workshop and a third survey four weeks after the workshop. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with hospital pharmacists at least four weeks after the ethics workshop.ResultsIn total, 32 participants completed the pre-workshop survey, nominating peers/colleagues as the most common source of support they would consult to inform ethical decision-making (17/118 sources of support). Almost all (n = 31/33; 94%) strongly agreed/agreed that the education session provided them with ethical reasoning skills and a process/framework which they could use when faced with an ethical issue. Pre- and post-survey responses showed increased self-confidence in identifying the regulatory frameworks applicable to pharmacy privacy requirements (p = 0.011) and ethical issues applicable to pharmacy privacy requirements (p = 0.002), as well as applying ethical reasoning to scenarios that involve pharmacy privacy dilemmas/issues (p = 0.004). Participants’ self confidence in knowing where to find support when faced with clinical and non-clinical ethics questions was improved (p = 0.002 and p = 0.003 respectively). Participants supported the introduction of quarterly ethics cafes after the workshop, compared to before the workshop (p = 0.001).ConclusionHospital pharmacists rely on discussions with colleagues to brainstorm how to address ethical issues. This study showed that a targeted interactive education workshop facilitated familiarity with ethics resources and decision-making processes. It also demonstrated that this approach could be used to enhance hospital pharmacists’ readiness, confidence, and capabilities to recognise and respond to challenging ethical issues.

The role of the hospital pharmacist to guarantee access and continuity of care for the management of epilepsy

In this article the pivotal role of hospital pharmacists in the multidisciplinary management of epilepsy is discussed. Hospital pharmacists are members of national and local ethics committees, oversee clinical trials, and ensure adherence to regulations for patient access to novel therapeutic treatments. They actively contribute to regulatory processes and the definition of prescribing centers. In the post-launch phase, hospital pharmacists are a key member in the multidisciplinary team, they are involved in decisions relating to the local introduction of drugs, in the management of the drug within the hospital structure and with the direct distribution, and to ensure proper and timely treatment. The pharmacovigilance network, including hospital and community pharmacists, monitors and prevents adverse effects related to epilepsy medications and enhances a collaborative approach with specialists to promote prescription appropriateness, targeting therapy for better patient outcomes. Finally, the potential benefits of deprescribing are briefly discussed, underscoring the importance of a multidisciplinary approach involving doctors and clinical pharmacists to gather comprehensive data and enhance patient care in epilepsy management.

To reveal the unseen low-hanging fruit: A multi-method study of Indonesian hospital pharmacist perception regarding the implementation of injection-to-oral conversion activity.

Previous studies have demonstrated that the adoption of injection-to-oral conversion strategies in hospitalised patient yields both clinical and economic benefits. The objective of this study was to provide a comprehensive description of the current state of implementation and evaluate the perspectives of hospital pharmacists to guide future initiatives towards conversion implementation in Indonesia. A multi-method design was utilised. Quantitative approach used cross-sectional study design in which data were collected online using Google Form from August to October 2021. Qualitative analysis employed a phenomenological approach by performing in-depth interviews from July to August 2021. Each approach's data were compared to discover connections and discrepancies, and the final interpretation was done simultaneously. A total of 204 pharmacists participated in the survey, with 64.2% of them reporting no previous experience in conversion. An in-depth interview included seven hospital pharmacists, with three themes were emerged: (1) strategic roles of the pharmacist; (2) key considerations; and (3) potential barriers and enablers of conversion implementation. Based on the elaboration of quantitative and qualitative data, the study found that pharmacist had strong perception regarding pharmacist role in conversion despite their little experience in implementing the activity. For future improvement, a platform that taking into account the pharmacist current conditions and insights should be created. Pharmacists appreciated conversion activity and grasped its concepts despite little clinical experience. Consider possible enabling and barrier factors and essential considerations before taking action. Local guidelines and instructional materials that emphasise application or implementation are encouraged. Furthermore, the implementation project must be piloted and evaluated for clinical and economic outcomes.

Hospital pharmacists and their role in the management of epilepsy

Hospital pharmacists and their role in the management of epilepsy

Evaluation of Drug Procurement Pattern and Drug Availability for JKN Patients at X Hospital and Y Hospital, Cirebon District, January-December 2022 Period

The era of National Health Insurance (JKN) brought changes in the health care system, which required hospital pharmacists to adapt to drug regulations and planning. Procurement planning and procedures have a significant impact on the availability of drugs and the financial situation of the hospital in drug management. One of the most crucial aspects of the hospital is the availability of guaranteed goods and sufficient drug supplies in order to provide the best service. This research was conducted to evaluate the procurement and availability of drugs at X Hospital as a public hospital and Y Hospital as a private hospital in Cirebon Regency. The analysis used in this study is descriptive-evaluative, namely the research method used to obtain data in a descriptive form and a systematic analysis is carried out to evaluate based on the descriptive data. Data collection was carried out by means of in-depth interviews with the hospital and distributors as external parties who also contributed to fulfilling the availability of drugs. The data is also complemented by the results of field observations and review of document reports related to the National Formulary (Fornas), Hospital Formulus (Forkit), and Drug Needs Plan (RKO). The results of this study found that the Drug Needs Plan, procurement and availability of drugs at X Hospital and Y Hospital were in accordance with the standards. This shows that most of the drugs available and given to patients are in accordance with the drugs listed in the National Formulary. There is a difference in the pattern of procurement. Hospitals conduct procurement twice a month, but private hospitals conduct procurement patterns twice a week. The two hospitals both use the SIMRS and Teramedik management information systems for the evaluation process of drug procurement and availability

European society of clinical microbiology and infectious diseases guidelines for antimicrobial stewardship in emergency departments (endorsed by European association of hospital pharmacists)

ScopeThis European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases guideline provides evidence-based recommendations to support a selection of appropriate antibiotic use practices for patients seen in the emergency department (ED) and guidance for their implementation. The topics addressed in this guideline are (a) Do biomarkers or rapid pathogen tests improve antibiotic prescribing and/or clinical outcomes? (b) Does taking blood cultures in common infectious syndromes improve antibiotic prescribing and/or clinical outcomes? (c) Does watchful waiting without antibacterial therapy or with delayed antibiotic prescribing reduce antibiotic prescribing without worsening clinical outcomes in patients with specific infectious syndromes? (d) Do structured culture follow-up programs in patients discharged from the ED with cultures pending improve antibiotic prescribing? MethodsAn expert panel was convened by European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases and the guideline chair. The panel selected in consensus the four most relevant antimicrobial stewardship topics according to pre-defined relevance criteria. For each main question for the four topics, a systematic review was performed, including randomized controlled trials and observational studies. Both clinical outcomes and stewardship process outcomes related to antibiotic use were deemed relevant. The literature searches were conducted between May 2021 and March 2022. In April 2022, the panel members were formally asked to suggest additional studies that were not identified in the initial searches. Data were summarized in a meta-analysis if possible or otherwise summarized narratively. The certainty of the evidence was classified according to the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation criteria. The guideline panel reviewed the evidence per topic critically appraising the evidence and formulated recommendations through a consensus-based process. The strength of the recommendations was classified as strong or weak. To substantiate the implementation process, implementation trials or observational studies describing facilitators/barriers for implementation were identified from the same searches and were summarized narratively. RecommendationsThe recommendations on the use of biomarkers and rapid pathogen diagnostic tests focus on the initiation of antibiotics in patients admitted through the ED. Their effect on the discontinuation or de-escalation of antibiotics during hospital stay was not reported, neither was their effect on hospital infection prevention and control practices. The recommendations on watchful waiting (i.e. withholding antibiotics with some form of follow-up) focus on specific infectious syndromes for which the primary care literature was also included. The recommendations on blood cultures focus on the indication in three common infectious syndromes in the ED explicitly excluding patients with sepsis or septic shock. Most recommendations are based on very low and low certainty of evidence, leading to weak recommendations or, when no evidence was available, to best practice statements. Implementation of these recommendations needs to be adapted to the specific settings and circumstances of the ED. The scarcity of high-quality studies in the area of antimicrobial stewardship in the ED highlights the need for future research in this field.

Risk assessment of clinical trial protocols: a tool for hospital pharmacists to reduce human error in experimental drug management

Background and objectivesHospital pharmacists collaborate in clinical trials by managing the reception, conservation, distribution, return and destruction of the investigational medical products (IMP). However, errors can happen during the simultaneous...

What Place Is There for Long-Acting Antibiotics in the Management of Gram-Positive Infections? A Qualitative Cross-Sectional Study.

To identify the current practices with long half-life lipoglycopeptides (LGPs) and potential use/position of oritavancin. Despite their indication being limited to skin and soft tissue infections (SSTIs), long half-life lipoglycopeptides are mainly used off-label to treat bone and joint infections (BJIs) and infective endocarditis. Oritavancin and dalbavancin are both semisynthetic lipoglycopeptide antibiotics with activity against Gram-positive organisms. The game-changing property of these two antibiotics is their one-time dosing. Due to its shorter half-life, oritavancin might have an advantage over dalbavancin for a treatment duration of less than 2 weeks, as it could be used both in prolonged treatments of complicated patients in BJIs or administered as a single-dose treatment for Gram-positive cocci infections usually treated by a 5- to 10-day antibiotic course. These infections include urinary tract infections, bacteremias, catheter-related infections, etc. In addition to the possibility of being used as an end-of-treatment injection, oritavancin could be used as an empiric therapy treatment in the postoperative period in the context of device-associated especially prosthetic joint infections to allow for the early discharge of the patient. A qualitative survey was conducted in March 2022 including sixteen infectiologists, one internist, five hospital pharmacists, and one pharmacologist. Long half-life lipoglycopeptides contribute to changing the paradigm in the management of acute bacterial infections, as infectiologists now consider a range of indications and patient profiles for one single drug. Oritavancin strengthens the therapeutic arsenal in numerous infections from BJIs to urinary tract infections and could help to manage specific clinical situations, on top of providing potential benefits for the hospital's budget.

Pharmacists’s knowledge, attitude, and practices towards pharmaceutical and patient-centred care in asthma management: A national study

BackgroundAsthma, a chronic respiratory disease, is effectively managed with medications, yet many patients struggle due to irregular treatment and poor adherence. Pharmacists play a crucial role in improving asthma care through pharmaceutical care (PC) services. This study aims to assess pharmacists’ knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors regarding asthma PC in Türkiye. MethodsThis cross-sectional study in Türkiye evaluated community (CP) and hospital pharmacists’ (HP) knowledge level, attitudes, and behaviors regarding asthma care. A validated Asthma Pharmaceutical Care Knowledge (APCL) and Asthma Attitudes and Behaviors (AAB) questionnaires were used to assess their knowledge levels and attitudes toward asthma pharmaceutical care. ResultsOut of 400 pharmacists participated the questionnaire, the majority were CP (297, 74.25 %). Both CP and HP demonstrated adequate knowledge scores, 79.39 ± 12.32 and 80.66 ± 12.25, respectively. APCL mean scores of CP and HP were 4.22 ± 0.523 and 4.29 ± 0.383. No statistically significant difference in asthma knowledge levels was observed between CP and HP. Both groups reported positive attitudes and behaviors toward asthma care, with CP scoring 4.71 ± 0.446 and HP scoring 4.74 ± 0.330 on the AAB questionnaire. ConclusionsThis study revealed that both CP and HP have sufficient knowledge about asthma and they have positive attitudes towards providing asthma PC. Pharmacists have crucial role in asthma care with leveraging their expertise, patient interactions, and ability to referral capabilities.

The future of pharmacy work: How pharmacists are adapting to and preparing for technology infusion

BackgroundThe pharmacy sector is rapidly evolving due to technological advancements, presenting challenges and opportunities for pharmacists. However, limited literature exists on the future of pharmacy work, especially concerning technology adoption. ObjectiveThis exploratory study investigates pharmacists' perspectives on the impact of technologies on the profession - including career security, role evolution, adjustments to changes - and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on technology implementation and the broader future of work in pharmacy. MethodA cross-sectional survey design was used, targeting all registered pharmacists in New Zealand. A questionnaire, adapted from Future of Work literature, was piloted and distributed to 3037 pharmacists. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, two-step hierarchical analysis, and content and thematic analysis. Ethics approval was obtained. Results177 responses met the inclusion criteria, yielding a 5.82% response rate. Respondent demographics included a lower proportion of community pharmacists and individuals of Asian ethnicity, but a higher proportion of males and hospital pharmacists compared to the national workforce. Most respondents were aged between 30 and 59 years, representing all District Health Board locations.Qualitative analysis identified two themes: 1) Factors affecting technology adoption across macro, meso and micro levels, including COVID-19's impact on work efficiency, regulatory gaps, fragmented IT and organizational infrastructures, patient safety, and attitudes at workforce and individual levels; 2) Career impacts, highlighting role expansion, job replacement fears, and the need for adaptation and upskilling. Quantitative findings indicate that early technology adopters are more prepared to learn new skills and plan their careers. Technology impact positively correlates with career planning, while job loss concerns negatively affect skill development readiness. ConclusionThe study underscores the importance of early technological adoption for readiness to acquire new skills and career planning in pharmacy. Embracing technological change, supported by regulatory and policy frameworks, is crucial for advancing the profession.

A national survey on assessment of knowledge, perceptions, practice, and barriers among hospital pharmacists towards medication reconciliation in United Arab Emirates

Medication reconciliation (MedRec) helps prevent medication errors. This cross-sectional, nationwide study assessed the knowledge, perceptions, practice, and barriers toward MedRec amongst hospital pharmacy practitioners in the United Arab Emirates. A total of 342 conveniently chosen stratified hospital pharmacists responded to the online survey (88.6% response rate). Mann–Whitney U test and Kruskal–Wallis test were applied at alpha = 0.05 and post hoc analysis was performed using Bonferroni test. The overall median knowledge score was 9/12 with IQR (9–11) with higher levels among clinical pharmacists (p < 0.001) and previously trained pharmacists (p < 0.001). Of the respondents, 35.09% (n = 120) practiced MedRec for fewer than five patients per week despite having a strong perception of their role in this process. The overall median perception score was 32.5/35 IQR (28–35) with higher scores among clinical pharmacists (p < 0.001) and those who attended previous training or workshops (p < 0.001). The median barrier score was 24/30 with an IQR (21–25), where lack of training and knowledge were the most common barriers. Results showed that pharmacists who did not attend previous training or workshops on MedRec had higher barrier levels than those who attended (p = 0.012). This study emphasizes the significance of tackling knowledge gaps, aligning perceptions with practice, and suggesting educational interventions.

Optimizing anticoagulation therapy for in-hospital patients on direct oral anticoagulants: a single-centre modified Delphi study.

The management of patients treated with direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) during hospitalization is a common challenge in clinical practice. Although bridging is generally not recommended, too often DOACs are switched to parenteral therapy with low molecular weight heparins. Our objectives were to update a local guideline for perioperative DOAC management and to develop a guideline for the anticoagulation management in non-surgical patients regarding temporary DOAC discontinuation. We executed a two-step modified Delphi study in a 1000-bed university hospital in Belgium. The Delphi questionnaires were developed based on a literature review and a telephone survey of prescribers. Two expert panels were established: one dedicated to perioperative DOAC management and the other to DOAC management in non-surgical patients. Both panels completed two rounds, commencing with an individual and online round, followed by a face-to-face group session. After the two-round Delphi process, the updated perioperative guideline on DOAC management included reasons for delaying the resumption of DOACs following surgery, such as oral intake not possible, the probability of re-intervention within 3 days, and insufficient haemostasis (e.g. active clinically significant haematoma, haemorrhagic drains or wounds). Furthermore, a guideline for non-surgical hospitalized patients was developed, outlining possible reasons for interrupting DOAC therapy. Both guidelines offer clear anticoagulation therapy strategies corresponding to the identified scenarios. We have updated and developed guidelines for DOAC management in surgical and non-surgical patients during hospitalization, which aim to support prescribers and to enhance targeted prescription review by hospital pharmacists.

[Translated article] Introducing artificial intelligence to hospital pharmacy departments

Artificial intelligence is a broad concept that includes the study of the ability of computers to perform tasks that would normally require the intervention of human intelligence. By exploiting large volumes of healthcare data, Artificial intelligence algorithms can identify patterns and predict outcomes, which can help healthcare organizations and their professionals make better decisions and achieve better results. Machine learning, deep learning, neural networks, or natural language processing are among the most important methods, allowing systems to learn and improve from data without the need for explicit programming. Artificial intelligence has been introduced in biomedicine, accelerating processes, improving accuracy and efficiency, and improving patient care.By using Artificial intelligence algorithms and machine learning, hospital pharmacists can analyze a large volume of patient data, including medical records, laboratory results, and medication profiles, aiding them in identifying potential drug–drug interactions, assessing the safety and efficacy of medicines, and making informed recommendations. Artificial intelligence integration will improve the quality of pharmaceutical care, optimize processes, promote research, deploy open innovation, and facilitate education. Hospital pharmacists who master Artificial intelligence will play a crucial role in this transformation.

Acercando la inteligencia artificial a los servicios de farmacia hospitalaria

Artificial intelligence (AI) is a broad concept that includes the study of the ability of computers to perform tasks that would normally require the intervention of human intelligence. By exploiting large volumes of healthcare data, artificial intelligence algorithms can identify patterns and predict outcomes, which can help healthcare organizations and their professionals make better decisions and achieve better results. Machine learning, deep learning, neural networks or natural language processing are among the most important methods, allowing systems to learn and improve from data without the need for explicit programming. AI has been introduced in biomedicine, accelerating processes, improving safety and efficiency, and improving patient care.By using AI algorithms and Machine Learning, hospital pharmacists can analyze a large volume of patient data, including medical records, laboratory results, and medication profiles, aiding them in identifying potential drug-drug interactions, assessing the safety and efficacy of medicines, and making informed recommendations. AI integration will improve the quality of pharmaceutical care, optimize processes, promote research, deploy open innovation, and facilitate education. Hospital pharmacists who master AI will play a crucial role in this transformation.

[Translated article] Conquering the future in hospital pharmacy: Training as a pillar of success

The training of hospital pharmacists in the coming years must adapt and respond to constant current and future social and technological challenges, without neglecting the basic areas of the profession. It is necessary to acquire knowledge in what is known as digital comprehensive health: artificial intelligence, technology and automation, digital skills, and new forms of communication with patients, such as telemedicine and telepharmacy that are already a reality in many hospitals.We must provide knowledge in automated systems for the distribution and dispensing of medicines, robots for preparing sterile preparations, traceability systems, the use of drones in clinical care, etc. as well as training in the application of technology in pharmaceutical care, through devices and applications that help identify patients who require specific care early and effectively. In this digital scenario, new risks and challenges must be faced, such as cybersecurity and cyber resilience, which makes the training and education of healthcare professionals in general, and hospital pharmacists in particular, inexcusable.On the other hand, the appearance of increasingly complex and innovative therapies has a great impact not only on health population but also on economic and environmental issues, which makes new competencies and skills essential to develop and implement disruptive and competent financing, equity, and sustainability strategies.In this demanding and hyper-connected environment, it is understandable that the well-known “burned out worker syndrome” appears, which prevents the correct personal and professional development of the team and highlights the importance of quality training for its prevention and management.In short, in the next decade, the training of hospital pharmacists must be aimed at providing knowledge in innovation and in basic skills needed to adapt and succeed to current demands and changes.

Conquistando el futuro en farmacia hospitalaria: la formación como pilar del éxito

The training of hospital pharmacists in the coming years must adapt and respond to constant current and future social and technological challenges, without neglecting the basic areas of the profession. It is necessary to acquire knowledge in what is known as digital comprehensive health: Artificial intelligence, technology and automation, digital skills, and new forms of communication with patients, such as telemedicine and telepharmacy that are already a reality in many hospitals.We must provide knowledge in automated systems for the distribution and dispensing of medicines, robots for preparing sterile preparations, traceability systems, the use of drones in clinical care, etc., as well as including training in the application of technology in pharmaceutical care, through devices and applications that help identify patients who require specific care early and effectively. In this digital scenario, new risks and challenges must be faced, such as cybersecurity and cyber-resilience, which makes the training and education of healthcare professionals in general, and hospital pharmacists in particular, essential.On the other hand, the appearance of increasingly complex and innovative therapies has a great impact not only on health population but also on economic and environmental issues, which makes new competencies and skills essential to develop and implement disruptive and competent financing, equity, and sustainability strategies.In this demanding and hyper-connected environment, it is understandable that the well-known “burned out worker syndrome” appears, which prevents the correct personal and professional development of the team and highlights the importance of quality training for its prevention and management.In short, in the next decade, the training of hospital pharmacists must be aimed at providing knowledge in innovation and in basic skills needed to adapt and succeed to current demands and changes.