Evaluating the Awareness of Hospital Pharmacists towards Hospital Pharmacy Services during Pandemic Readiness: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background

Hospital pharmacists have an essential role to play in maintaining continuity of care, medication safety, and medicine chain management, especially under public health challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic further emphasized preparedness and inclusion within hospital frameworks.

Objectives

The primary objective of the present study is to examine the level of awareness and preparedness of hospital pharmacists working in Saudi Arabia, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, and to explore the association between the level of awareness and some socio-demographic factors.

Materials and Methods

A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out on 202 pharmacists in different hospitals in Saudi Arabia. A self-administered, pre-validated questionnaire with four domains was used.

Results

Most respondents had high awareness in integration with institutional planning, at 69.3%, followed by public and professional education and training, at 54.5%, and departmental leadership, at 53.5%. Lower awareness was expressed in the medications and supplies domain, at 45.5%. Strong positive correlations were found among all questionnaire domains. Multivariable analysis disclosed that work location, years of experience, age, and qualification were significant predictors for awareness.

Conclusion

In general, awareness of pandemic preparedness among hospital pharmacists in Saudi Arabia during the COVID-19 pandemic was good. However, certain areas need more attention, including medication and supply preparedness, which must be effectively carried out by policies even in non-central hospitals.