Assessments of community pharmacists� perceptions of the pros and cons of the home delivery of medications service in Sana�a, Yemen

Abstract

Home delivery of medications is an emerging service that can enhance treatment continuity, reduce travel burdens, and improve public health outcomes in low-resource settings like Yemen. However, community pharmacists� perceptions in Sana�a remain unclear. To assess community pharmacists� perceptions of home medication delivery services in terms of their advantages, disadvantages, and the factors influencing their acceptance. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 375 community pharmacies in Sana�a from April to July 2023. Logistic regression identified factors affecting service acceptance. Of 390 pharmacies approached, 375 (96.2%) participated. The majority were male (85.9%), and 49.3% held a Bachelor of Pharmacy degree. More than two-thirds (68.3%) were aware of the service, 47.2% were willing to adopt it, and 31.7% currently offered it. The main disadvantages identified were dispensing errors (69.1%), verification limitations (71.5%), and challenges in marketing over-the-counter items (70.7%). In contrast, the primary advantages included facilitating treatment during pandemics (83.2%), aiding vulnerable populations (84.5%), providing convenience for parents (80.8%), and potentially reducing congestion in health facilities (72.0%). In multivariable analysis, willingness to adopt home delivery was higher among pharmacists currently providing it (AOR = 9.10), partially involved (AOR = 4.05), and those aware of it (AOR = 4.95; all p < 0.001). Most community pharmacists in Sana�a are aware of home medication delivery, and nearly half express a willingness to adopt it for its continuity of care, reduced facility congestion, and convenience. However, Concerns about medication errors remain, and acceptance is strongly influenced by awareness and involvement.