Survey of Knowledge of Pharmacy Students and Pharmacists Regarding Artificial Intelligence in Lattakia

Artificial Intelligence is crucial in various sectors, including pharmacy. A survey was conducted to assess the level of knowledge about artificial intelligence (AI) among pharmacy students and pharmacists in Lattakia. A total of 117 participants took part in the survey, with most participants aged between 18 and 25 years (88.9%). This finding underscores the importance of the younger generation understanding AI, considering its role as a key advancement in future industries. Of the participants, 79.5% were female, and 71.8% were students at a pharmacy college. Notably, 80% of users actively engage with platforms such as Facebook, YouTube, WhatsApp, Instagram, Telegram, and Google. Surprisingly, 88% reported a lack of familiarity with AI. Survey responses highlighted the perceived benefits of AI, with 63% citing profit enhancement, 70% pointing to the availability of drug-related data and side effects, and 88% emphasising the reduction of prescription errors. Conversely, 82% acknowledged a primary drawback of AI as the potential decrease in job opportunities. 70% believe that a smart pharmacy would monitor medication expiration dates, remove expired drugs, and automate ordering from suppliers based on needs. Furthermore, approximately two-thirds envisioned an innovative laboratory capable of calibrating tools, documenting test outcomes, analyzing data, and automatically receiving, labeling, and storing samples. 63% acknowledged the need for more education on AI, while 53% recognized the importance of integrating AI into the pharmacy curriculum. The findings revealed that pharmacy students and pharmacists possess limited awareness regarding AI in general and its specific applications in pharmacy.