Outcomes of telepharmacy on asthma control In Chiang Saen Hospital

Effects of Tele Pharmacy-Based Pharmaceutical Care on Asthma Control among Medication Pick-Up Patients at Chiang Saen Hospital: A One-Group Pretest - Posttest Study

Abstract

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the outcomes of pharmaceutical care using telepharmacy services in patients with asthma. A pre-experimental one-group pretest-posttest design was conducted without a control group. Twenty-six asthma patients were followed and counseled via the Line Official Account application for eight weeks. Outcomes were assessed in three domains: clinical, humanistic, and economic.

Results showed a statistically significant improvement in asthma control, increasing from 50% to 84.62% (p < 0.05). Emergency inhalation visits decreased from 0.85 to 0.35 times/person, and hospitalization rate declined from 0.31 to 0.02 times/person. Drug-related problems dropped from 18 to 1 case (94.44% reduction). The proportion of patients correctly using inhalers rose from 26.92% to 100% (p < 0.05). Knowledge scores improved from 5.19 ± 0.71 to 7.81 ± 0.02 (p < 0.05), and satisfaction with the service was rated “very satisfied” (4.78 ± 0.35). Economically, patients saved an average of 473.69 ± 396.49 THB, equivalent to 46.51% ± 26.73 in cost reduction.

In conclusion, telepharmacy-based pharmaceutical care in asthma patients enhances disease control, promotes correct medication use, reduces drug-related problems, increases patient knowledge and satisfaction, and lowers healthcare expenses. It is, therefore, a suitable and sustainable model for long-term patient care.