Pharmacy Digital Transformation: Indonesia New Era of Hospital Pharmacy

Healthcare is a growing sector in Indonesia, which has the third-highest growth among G20 countries. There is a big opportunity for healthcare in the future, but challenges include rising costs and limited resources. The solution is technology. The Ministry of Health supports this by creating a blueprint for a Digital Transformation Strategy in 2024. The MOH is building a database of electronic health records and genomic data for all Indonesian citizens. This database is essential to future development. The MOH is also implementing mobile applications for hospital admission, doctor appointments, and payment processes.

Hospitals, as multidisciplinary teams, can use technology to improve patient services. For example, at National Hospital, technology is used in the pharmacy, laboratory, and radiology departments. The Electronic Unit Daily Dose system is used in the pharmacy to prevent medication errors. The system scans the patient and medication barcodes and creates a schedule for the patient. This system connects with patient health records and mobile applications.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly growing in the pharmacy industry. Combined with patient genomic data, AI can provide effective treatment for doctors and pharmacists. AI is also used in drug research and development. Mobile applications and wearables have a vast potential to help patients, such as with medication adherence. Halodoc is a popular mobile pharmacy application in Indonesia that is helping to fulfill this mission.

The government can use the health database to make policies based on National Health Insurance Coverage costs. Seamless connectivity is crucial. Pharmacy universities and research can also benefit from the database and AI, providing more accurate and precise results. Students can prepare and improve their skills in drug analysis, problem-solving, and innovation.

In radiology and laboratory, health database records, AI, and cloud-based storage connected to mobile apps allow patients and doctors to access results anytime and anywhere. AI helps doctors make faster diagnoses and treatments. Robotics is also used in surgery and rehabilitation.

"Digitalization is the biggest trend now, accelerated by COVID-19. Technology allows for teleconsultations and online purchases of medicine. Appointments with doctors, laboratories, radiology, etc. have become easier globally, including in Indonesia."

Humans are the most important resource, and we must adapt quickly to technology. Design thinking can drive innovation, starting with everyday problems and finding solutions. Digitalization is not just about technology but reimagining processes. The future holds unlimited potential with the integration of all resources, including technology.