Italy expands pharmacy roles with telemedicine and personalized medication guidelines

Italian health authorities have introduced new guidelines to expand the role of pharmacies in patient care. AGENAS has released organizational guidelines for providing telemedicine services through contracted pharmacies. This model aims to improve access for patients in rural and internal areas, as well as those with chronic conditions or vulnerabilities, by connecting pharmacies with general practitioners, specialists, and community health centers.

The telemedicine services will include televisits, telemonitoring, telecontrol, teleconsultation, and teleassistance. Pharmacies will act as technical-logistical hubs, utilizing spaces and equipment potentially funded by the PNRR. Participation is voluntary, and remuneration will be determined at the regional level.

Additionally, the Ministry of Health has approved national guidelines for personalized medication access in public pharmacies. This service allows for the customized unpacking and repackaging of medicines to support therapeutic adherence for chronic and fragile patients. The service must be provided by the pharmacy managing the patient, using only the medications dispensed by that specific pharmacy, to ensure professional responsibility and safety.