The retail pharmacy landscape in Nigeria is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by a confluence of factors including increasing urbanisation, a rising prevalence of chronic diseases, growing internet and mobile phone penetration, and a burgeoning demand for quality healthcare services. As the nation’s population expands and its healthcare needs become more complex, the traditional model of retail pharmacy is being challenged to evolve and adapt. This article explores the key trends shaping the future of retail pharmacy in Nigeria and examines how technology is at the forefront of this evolution.
Key trends shaping the future of retail pharmacy in Nigeria
Digitalisation and E-commerce: The increasing penetration of the internet and mobile phones is fuelling the growth of e-commerce across various sectors, and the pharmaceutical industry is no exception. Online pharmacies are emerging, offering convenience, accessibility, and a wider range of products to consumers.
Focus on patient-centred care: There is a growing emphasis on patient-centred care, with consumers demanding more personalised and holistic healthcare experiences. Technology facilitates this through digital platforms that allow for personalised consultations, health monitoring, and tailored interventions.
Rise of chronic diseases: Retail pharmacies are playing an increasingly important role in supporting patients with chronic conditions, providing medication adherence support, and offering disease management programmes. Technology aids in tracking patient progress, providing reminders, and facilitating communication between patients and healthcare providers.
Counterfeit medicines and supply chain challenges:
Consumers are increasingly concerned about the authenticity and quality of the medications they purchase. This has led to a demand for greater transparency and accountability in the pharmaceutical supply chain. Technology, such as blockchain and track-and-trace systems, is being deployed to enhance supply chain integrity and ensure the authenticity of drugs.
How technology is shaping the future of retail pharmacy
Technology is no longer just a supporting tool but a fundamental driver of change in the retail pharmacy sector in Nigeria. Here are some key ways technology is shaping the future:
- Telepharmacy: Technology enables pharmacists to provide remote consultations, medication management, and other services to patients in underserved areas or those with mobility issues. This expands access to pharmaceutical care beyond the confines of traditional brick-and-mortar pharmacies.
- Digital health records: Electronic health records (EHRs) and personal health records (PHRs) allow for the seamless sharing of patient information between pharmacists, physicians, and other healthcare providers. This improves care coordination, reduces medication errors, and enhances patient safety.
- Medication adherence tools: Mobile apps, wearable devices, and smart packaging are being used to remind patients to take their medications as prescribed, track adherence, and provide feedback to healthcare providers. This is particularly important for patients with chronic conditions who require long-term medication therapy.
- Data analytics and artificial intelligence (AI): Technology enables pharmacies to collect and analyse vast amounts of data on patient demographics, medication usage, and health outcomes. This data can be used to personalise care, identify trends, and improve operational efficiency. AI can also be used to automate tasks such as prescription processing and drug interaction checks, freeing up pharmacists to focus on patient counselling.
- Supply chain management technologies: Blockchain, track-and-trace systems, and other technologies are being implemented to improve the transparency and security of the pharmaceutical supply chain. This helps to combat the problem of counterfeit drugs, ensure the quality of medications, and improve inventory management.
- E-commerce platforms: Online platforms are transforming how patients access medications and other healthcare products. These platforms offer convenience, wider selection, and often more competitive pricing.
Conclusion
The future of retail pharmacy in Nigeria is inextricably linked to technology. Digitalisation, patient-centred care, and a focus on quality are driving innovation and transformation. Start-ups like HubPharm Africa, Pharmarun, Famasi Africa, and Purelife Pharmacy are leveraging technology and innovative business models in the retail pharmacy segment to enhance access to genuine, affordable medicines for patients in Nigeria. Established brands like Medplus, Alpha Pharmacy, and Nett Pharmacy are also not left out in using technology to serve their customers.
Technology is empowering pharmacists to provide more comprehensive care, improve medication adherence, enhance patient safety, and streamline operations. As technology continues to advance and become more accessible, it will play an even greater role in shaping the future of healthcare and ensuring that all Nigerians have access to the medications and pharmaceutical services they need to live healthy lives.
Sesan Kareem is the founder of HubPharm Africa (www.hubpharmafrica.com), a pioneering digital pharmacy platform that enhances access to genuine, affordable medicines and promotes a healthy lifestyle to help Africans thrive wherever they are in the world.
