Artificial intelligence in pharmacy practice: pharmacists' perceptions and concerns toward implementation

Integrating artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to transform healthcare. AI can enhance medication management, patient outcomes, and streamline pharmacy operations. However, addressing AI limitations and pharmacists' concerns is essential to fully grasp its real future potential in healthcare and its impact on the workforce.

A cross-sectional study was conducted using a previously developed pilot-tested online questionnaire with demonstrated content validity and reliability among licensed pharmacists in the UAE. The questionnaire assessed participants' demographics, perceived benefits (9 items), and concerns/barriers (18 items) regarding AI implementation in pharmacy practice. Responses were recorded using a 5-point Likert scale. Perception scores were analyzed using descriptive statistics (mean ± standard deviation) to reflect the distribution of responses. Internal consistency was high (Cronbach's α: benefits, 0.88; concerns/barriers, 0.90). Associations between participants' demographics and perception scores were analyzed using appropriate statistical tests, with significance set at p < 0.05.

A total of 400 participants were invited to participate in the study, of whom 340 returned completed questionnaires (response rate: 85%). Overall, participants reported positive perceptions of AI, particularly in relation to multitasking and rapid data analysis (4.1 ± 0.9), improved service quality (3.9 ± 1.0), and enhanced patient follow-up (3.8 ± 1.1). However, perceptions of AI's clinical impact were more moderate, including improved patient outcomes (3.5 ± 1.1), reduced medication errors (3.3 ± 1.2), and reduced healthcare costs (3.1 ± 1.2). Major concerns included cybersecurity risks (4.2 ± 0.8), data privacy issues (4.1 ± 0.9), and potential job displacement (3.9 ± 1.1).

In this study, AI was perceived as a promising advancement in pharmacy practice, particularly in enhancing operational efficiency, multitasking, and patient follow-up. However, significant concerns were identified, including data privacy, cybersecurity, job displacement, and the potential loss of the human element in patient care. Addressing these concerns requires ensuring that AI complements, rather than replaces, pharmacists' roles, supported by updated education, targeted training, and clear regulatory frameworks.