Feasibility Study of Changing RAMA Health Shop of Ramathibodi Hospital to Drugstore

Abstract

Objective: To study marketing and financial feasibility if pharmacy services were served at the RAMA Health Shop, Ramathibodi hospital which, at present, was a store for non-drug health products such as cosmeceuticals, medical food, and medical supplies. Methods: The researcher collected the data, by using questionnaires, from the expected customers of the RAMA Health Shop on competitor in the market, pharmacy service related behaviors, marketing mix influencing the use of pharmacy services. The study also financial information based on approach for business analysis by using the information from the operation of the shop. Results: The most commonly purchased item in drugstore was modern drugs (43.86%). The most commonly purchased medicines were analgesic agents (24.26%). Reason for buying medicines was self-medication for illness (44.96%). Customers themselves were rated as the most important influencer for decision making on buying medicines (32.34%). The most preferred service in drugstore was pharmacy counseling (39.99%). They rated the highest score in the marketing mixes on staff related factor (average score of 4.36 out of the full score of 5). Discount payback period was 105 days and net present value was 9,658,881 baht. Conclusion: it was possible in market and financial aspects if pharmacy services were served at the RAMA Health Shop.