Role of pharmacist in supply management during the COVID-19 pandemic: a rapid review

Abstract

The objective was to identify the supply management activities developed by pharmacists during the COVID-19 pandemic. A rapid literature review was conducted by systematically searching the MEDLINE (via Pubmed), EMBASE, and BVS databases to identify actions and strategies for inventory management performed by the pharmacists. Complementary research identified the Brazilian legislation that impacted inventory management in the early years of the pandemic. A total of 16 articles were included, most of which were reports of experiences dealing with the pandemic and its consequences. Several strategies developed by pharmacists were described, such as the elaboration of priority medication lists and intermediation with manufacturers and wholesalers. The storage areas needed to be reorganized and expanded, and drug dispensing required a dynamic review of the therapeutic options available to adapt prescriptions. In Brazil, seven normative had an impact on the medication management routine, changing work processes in the public and private sectors. Pharmacists have developed important strategies for supply management and several actions can be adapted and continued in health services, contributing to the prediction of risks, impacts and the adoption of strategies to minimize adversities resulting from health emergencies