Exploring community pharmacy services in Gulf Cooperation Council countries: a scoping review

The role of community pharmacists (CPs) is evolving worldwide. However, evidence on the expanding role of CPs in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries remains limited.

This study aimed to describe the type, nature, extent, and/or effectiveness of community pharmacy-based services in GCC countries.

All primary studies involving existing, piloted community pharmacy services or services being explored for future implementation in the GCC countries were eligible for inclusion.

Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, and Scopus were searched from inception to 6 December 2024. Screening and data extraction were performed by two independent reviewers. Results were narratively synthesized.

Overall, 116 studies were included. The majority were from KSA (N = 61, 52.6%) and UAE (N = 38, 32.8%), with none in Oman and Bahrain. Besides the nationally practised dispensing and counselling, tele-pharmacy/E-prescription was implemented nationwide in the UAE and KSA. In some countries, minor ailments management, pregnant and lactating women care, reporting adverse drug reactions, immunization, chronic conditions monitoring, independent prescribing, and health promotion were locally practised by some CPs and under-evaluated. Diabetic education, health screening, and medication therapy management were piloted in some countries and showed promising effectiveness. Humanistic effectiveness was the most assessed outcome (N = 16, 13.8%). The most reported barriers were lack of privacy, time, and training.

The review highlighted the expanding role of CPs in the GCC countries while identifying gaps in practice. Policymakers can utilize the findings to develop strategies for improving practice, ensuring national implementation, and maintaining the quality of services.