Assessing the Efficient Factors on Implementing Electronic Extinction in Pharmacies of Yazd, Iran

Abstract

Introduction: The considerable development in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) caused to use new technics and electronic systems to write the description. The current investigation was conducted to recognize the efficient factors on implementing electronic extinction in pharmacies in Iran using Fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Process (FAHP) and Fuzzy Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (Fuzzy DEMATEL) methods. Methods: This research aimed to measure the factors based on quality as well as practical investigation by asking 15 experts in field of health ICT, as well as pharmacy experts in Yazd City, Iran. In priority, the research was started based on the library method, and it tended to recognize the primary criteria. Afterwards, these criteria were assessed using semi-structured interviews with 15 experts. Therefore, considering final factors, two questionnaires (about the importance of factors and causative relationships) were finalized and distributed among the experts to be assessed later using Delphi technic. Results: The efficient factors that would be useful for confirming electronic communication were as “digital signature, senior managers’ support for automation of writing prescription, training of how to work with electronic version, and governmental subsidies and financial supports”. Conclusion: Identifying the effective factors on implementing electronic description in pharmacies can policymakers to accomplish fundamental measures and to design the best and effective program in this field.

Keywords

• electronic prescribing
• information technology
• pharmacies