Internet Pharmacy: Issues of Access, Quality, Costs, and Regulation

Author: Crawford S.Y.

Source: Journal of Medical Systems, Volume 27, Number 1, February 2003 , pp. 57-65(9)

Publisher: Springer

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Abstract:

Internet pharmacy has been the focus of heightened interest over the past 3 years since the first major Web site was introduced in the United States. This paper addresses issues pertaining to Internet pharmacies that sell prescriptions and other products to consumers at the retail level. The Internet pharmacy industry has shifted rapidly in the short time span. This paper begins with a summary of historical considerations and the shifting organization of Internet pharmacy. The advantages and disadvantages of online pharmacy practice are listed. Issues of access, quality, and cost are described. The challenges in regulation at the state and federal levels are presented. Advice to consumers is offered regarding the use of Internet pharmacy sites for purchasing prescription drug products.

Keywords: prescription drugs; Internet; pharmacies; United States; quality; regulation

Language: English

Document Type: Research article

Affiliations: 1: Department of Pharmacy Administration, University of Illinois at Chicago, 833 S. Wood Street (mc 871), Chicago, Illinois 60612; crawford@uic.edu

Publication date: 2003-02-01