Revisión de la atención farmacéutica enfocada en la salud pública: desafíos y oportunidades

Abstract

Abstract: Pharmaceutical care is essential for strengthening health systems,promoting the rational use of medicines, and improving patient safety. The objective of this research was to analyze the development of pharmaceutical care in the public sector in Latin America and to identify experiences that contribute to strengthening its implementation in Ecuador s public health system. A systematic review of the literature was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines, by searching scientific databases and national and international regulatory documents. Of a total of 573 records identified, 18 studies that met the established eligibility criteria were included. The results showed that pharmaceutical care has evolved toward a patient-centered model integrated into primary health care; however, its implementation remains inconsistent across Latin American countries. In Ecuador, although there is a regulatory framework that supports their development, limitations persist due to the predominance of administrative functions, the limited integration of pharmacists into healthcare teams, the lack of indicators to evaluate services, and the limited development of clinical activities. It is concluded that strengthening pharmaceutical care in Ecuador s public health system requires progress in implementing a care model that promotes the integration of pharmacists into primary care, strengthens clinical training, incorporates evaluation mechanisms, and fosters the generation of evidence to support decision-making and the design of public policies.