Development of a Drug Management Performance Application: A Needs Assessment in Indonesia

OBJECTIVES: This study assessed the current state of pharmacy management information systems in Indonesia and systematically determined the improvements needed from the stakeholders’ perspective. METHODS: This descriptive study used focus group discussions and observations in 13 institutions, and 17 respondents were selected by purposive sampling. The PIECES (performance, information, economy, control, efficiency, service) framework was used to help identify needs. The research was conducted from September 2021 to November 2021 at primary health centers and health offices in Yogyakarta, Indonesia and involved pharmacists and information systems staff. RESULTS: There was no standardized information system in place to support drug management and no format or rules for drug labeling (performance). Pharmacists were not able to provide non-prescription services outside the pharmacy warehouse (information). A new system needs to be developed, and budget availability needs to be determined (economy). System security decreases when users share accounts (control), and the existing systems have not been integrated as needed (efficiency). It is first necessary to plan and support regulations for system development (service). The authors formulated a recommended drug labeling format and a proposed system integration plan. CONCLUSIONS: The development of an information system to support drug management is eagerly awaited by pharmacists in Indonesia to assist in their work. Further research on the development and implementation of an information system is needed to improve the quality of drug management at primary health centers.