Exploration of Utilizing Electronic Health Databases in Evidence-Based Practice Among Iranian Pharmacists: A Survey by Simulation of Health-seeking Pregnant Women

Background: Evidence-based medicine (EBM) uses the most reliable evidence available to enhance decision-making in patient care, thereby improving the treatment plan success, patient compliance, rational use of medications, and reducing healthcare costs. Objectives: This study evaluated the knowledge, attitude, and practice of Iranian pharmacists regarding EBM utilization in community pharmacies. Methods: A 36-item questionnaire was designed and validated to assess the knowledge and attitudes of community pharmacists. A simulated-patient method was used to evaluate the practice one week after completing the questionnaire. Results: Within 284 pharmacy visits, the results of 200 pharmacists were collected entirely. Pharmacists aged 24-65 were included in the study. The average knowledge score of pharmacists was 37.91±15.4 out of 100. The pharmacists aged 24-29 demonstrated higher knowledge levels than pharmacists aged 30-65 ( P =0.042). Furthermore, those who dispensed more than 30 prescriptions daily showcased a higher knowledge level ( P =0.024). Additionally, it was found that pharmacists who utilized UpToDate® exhibited greater knowledge and practice in comparison to others who did not use this clinical resource ( P <0.001). Most pharmacists had a positive attitude towards EBM and its implementation in the pharmacy (99.5%). The mean score of practice in managing the simulated-patient was 50.34 ± 21.35. A direct association was detected between knowledge and practice (r=0.73, P <0.05). There was no association between pharmacists' attitudes and their practice scores. Conclusion: Most pharmacists agreed about the crucial need to incorporate EBM into pharmacy practices. Pharmacists with advanced knowledge of EBM and using UpToDate® showed better knowledge and practice.