Providing Pharmaceutical Care Services at Community Pharmacies: An Analysis Of Public Perceptions And Attitudes In Hanoi

Tóm tắt

Globally, the role of community pharmacists is increasingly expanding to include the provision of pharmaceutical care services (PCS), which play a vital role in enhancing healthcare quality. This study aimed to investigate the public's perceptions and attitudes regarding the provision of pharmaceutical care services at community pharmacies in Hanoi in 2025. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted with 324 participants. The results revealed a mean perception score of 57.36±9.12. The majority viewed community pharmacists as an essential part of the healthcare system; however, nearly 30% expressed skepticism about the accuracy of medication information provided and their ability to manage minor ailments. Participants demonstrated a high demand (x̄ = 2.81 – 3.10) and willingness to pay (x̄ = 3.53 – 4.05) for pharmaceutical care services, particularly for screening tests and immunization services, with nearly 60% agreeing to pay over 90,000 VND. Key barriers identified included greater trust in physicians (52.6%) and a lack of confidence in pharmacists' capabilities (47.7%). Place of residence, presence of chronic disease, gender, age, and income significantly influenced perceptions and demand (p<0.05). In conclusion, the public demonstrated ambiguous perceptions but held positive attitudes towards the implementation of pharmaceutical care services. Therefore, further development of legal frameworks is necessary to facilitate the expansion of pharmaceutical care services in community pharmacies.