To assess the level of acceptance and readiness of the Syrian population to use e-pharmacy services, exploring public perceptions and factors influencing their adoption.
Approach:
Study Design: Cross-sectional survey targeting adults aged 18 years or older in Syria, utilizing online platforms for data collection.
Sampling Method: Convenience sampling supplemented by snowball sampling due to regional instability and limited access to a national sampling frame.
Survey Development: Questionnaire adapted from a Jordanian study, structured into four sections covering demographics, knowledge, perceived benefits, and disadvantages of e-pharmacy.
Data Collection: Data collected over 60 days via Google Forms shared on social media, ensuring participant confidentiality.
Key Findings:
E-pharmacy services can enhance accessibility and reduce travel burdens.
Consumer trust and perceived usefulness significantly influence the intention to adopt e-pharmacy services.
Barriers to adoption include concerns about medication authenticity and patient safety.
Interpretation:
The findings provide insights into how digital pharmaceutical services can be optimally designed to meet patients’ needs in Syria.
Limitations:
Convenience sampling may limit the generalizability of the findings.
Online survey distribution may exclude individuals without internet access.
Conclusion:
The study highlights the potential for e-pharmacy services in Syria, emphasizing the need for addressing barriers to enhance adoption.