Internet pharmaceutical sales: attributes, concerns, and future forecast

J Hosp Mark Public Relations. 2003;15(1):61-76. doi: 10.1300/j375v15n01_06.

Abstract

Internet pharmaceutical sales continue to skyrocket as healthcare providers and consumers are increasingly relying on the efficiencies and convenience that is available via such transactions. Managed care companies, increasing demands to reduce healthcare inefficiencies while maximizing the quality of patient care is a significant contributing factor to the expanding utilization and success of online pharmaceutical sales. However, with the expansion of Internet pharmaceutical sales, healthcare providers, pharmacy benefit management and insurance companies, and consumers realize new opportunities and risks. This paper will review the attributes and concerns associated with online pharmaceutical sales, discussing current and pending legislation intended to more effectively manage these parameters.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Commerce / methods*
  • Efficiency, Organizational
  • Forecasting
  • Internet*
  • Pharmaceutical Services / legislation & jurisprudence
  • Pharmaceutical Services / organization & administration*
  • Pharmaceutical Services / trends
  • Privacy
  • Safety Management / organization & administration
  • United States