Journal ID : AMA-23-12-2024-13367
[This article belongs to Volume - 55, Issue - 12]
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Title : Investigating the Integration of Health Informatics in Pharmacology Practices in Saudi Arabia

Abstract :

The integration of health informatics into pharmacology has revolutionized medication management, patient education, and drug safety. Despite advancements in Saudi Arabia's healthcare sector, public awareness and utilization of health informatics tools remain underexplored. This study examines the public’s familiarity, usage patterns, and perceptions of these tools, while identifying factors influencing adoption and barriers to utilization. This cross-sectional study recruited 1,200 participants from diverse demographic groups across Saudi Arabia using a random sampling technique. Data were collected through a structured, closed-ended questionnaire that assessed familiarity with health informatics tools, their usage, influencing factors, and barriers. Data analysis included descriptive and inferential statistics, employing SPSS version 26.0. Ethical approval was obtained from the Institutional Review Board (IRB). The findings revealed that 45% of participants were familiar with health informatics, while 38% actively utilized these tools. E-prescriptions (53%) were the most commonly used, followed by online drug databases (28%) and telepharmacy services (20%). Key motivators included convenience (60%) and recommendations from healthcare providers (55%). Major barriers were lack of awareness (60%) and privacy concerns (45%). Notably, 78% of participants perceived health informatics as critical for improving medication safety, with 60% strongly agreeing that these tools reduce medication errors. While health informatics tools are recognized for their potential to enhance pharmacology practices, significant gaps in awareness and utilization persist. Addressing barriers through targeted educational campaigns, enhanced privacy measures, and integration of tools into healthcare systems can foster adoption. Future research should focus on the long-term impacts of health informatics on healthcare outcomes and evaluate interventions to bridge the awareness-utilization gap.

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