The role of Design Science Research Methodology in developing pharmacy eHealth services

Area of Science:

• Health Services Research
• Information Science
• Pharmacy Practice

Background:

• Health systems increasingly focus on efficiency and value-based care.
• eHealth and integrated care are key solutions for future healthcare delivery.
• Community pharmacy services have evolved, necessitating new service design approaches.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present Design Science Research Methodology (DSRM) as a user-centered approach for designing and implementing health services, particularly eHealth services.
• To illustrate the application of DSRM in a healthcare setting using case studies.
• To highlight the advantages of DSRM for service design in pharmacy.

Main Methods:

• The paper introduces Design Science Research Methodology (DSRM).
• Case studies are utilized to demonstrate DSRM application in healthcare.
• The methodology's steps and appropriate methods are explained.

Main Results:

• DSRM provides a structured, user-centered framework for developing eHealth services.
• The case studies illustrate practical implementation of DSRM in healthcare settings.
• DSRM offers advantages over other user-centered methodologies for service design.

Conclusions:

• DSRM is a viable and advantageous methodology for designing and implementing pharmacy eHealth services.
• The study encourages further discussion on DSRM's role in pharmacy service implementation and sustainability.
• Adoption of DSRM can enhance the integration and value of pharmacy services within broader health systems.