Environmental and professional factors influencing pharmacists’ information behavior
Keywords:
drug information, technology, chain pharmacies, independent pharmaciesAbstract
Objectives: This study aimed to compare the professional profiles, operational characteristics, and digital technology adoption levels among 420 chain and independent community pharmacists, while identifying the determinants of their drug information behavior. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted, utilizing Chi-square tests and multivariable logistic regression for data analysis. Results: A significant workforce polarization was observed: chain pharmacists were markedly younger (95,5% under age 36) and less experienced, yet faced higher workloads and a substantially greater volume of prescription-only medicine (ETC) inquiries compared to the independent sector. While pharmacy management software served as a near-universal digital foundation (97,4%), chain pharmacies led in the adoption of operational technologies. Crucially, multivariable regression confirmed that the type of pharmacy (chain vs. independent) was not a decisive factor in information behavior. Instead, ETC information requests emerged as the most potent driver, significantly prompting pharmacists to utilize digital search tools daily (OR = 2,434; p < 0,001) and perform cross-verification of information (OR = 1,727; p = 0,025). Notably, given the clinical risks associated with ETC drugs, pharmacists exhibited caution, prioritizing legally recognized traditional sources—such as Package Inserts—over newer digital platforms. Conclusion: Seeking and evaluating digital information among community pharmacists is primarily driven by the clinical pressures of ETC-related inquiries rather than mere infrastructure investment.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Thi Xuan Thuy Nguyen, Huong Ly Le, Thi Thanh Tu Bui, Nguyen Tuong Vy Hoang, Thi Thanh Nhung Nguyen (Author)
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