Pharmaceutical Care in China: A Systematic Review of Current Status and Future Directions
Authors: Y. Zhang, L. Wang, H. Li, J. Chen
Pharmaceutical care has evolved globally as a patient-centered practice, yet its implementation in China faces unique challenges. This systematic review synthesizes evidence from 2010 to 2024 to evaluate the current status, barriers, and outcomes of pharmaceutical care in Chinese healthcare settings. A comprehensive search of PubMed, CNKI, and Wanfang databases identified 1,245 articles, of which 38 met inclusion criteria. Findings reveal that pharmaceutical care in China is predominantly hospital-based, focusing on medication reconciliation, therapeutic drug monitoring, and patient education. However, significant barriers include workforce shortages, lack of standardized protocols, and limited integration with primary care. Despite these challenges, studies demonstrate improved medication adherence, reduced adverse drug events, and enhanced patient satisfaction. The review proposes a framework for advancing pharmaceutical care through policy reforms, interprofessional collaboration, and digital health technologies. Future directions emphasize community-based services and personalized medicine to align with global standards.
