Social Pharmacy Research Unit (SPRU)

1. Introduction/Background/General Information

The Social Pharmacy Research Unit (SPRU) is committed to advancing knowledge and conducting impactful research in the field of social pharmacy and pharmaceutical systems management. It serves as a center for addressing societal challenges related to medication use and health systems, contributing to evidence-based policy development and fostering sustainable public health solutions. SPRU integrates multidisciplinary approaches, drawing on social, economic, and cultural perspectives to address pressing issues in the pharmaceutical field.

The Unit’s primary mission is to improve medication use, health outcomes, and overall quality of life through innovative research and academic collaboration. By enhancing understanding of pharmacists’ roles in society and the importance of effective medication policies, SPRU seeks to strengthen the pharmaceutical and health systems in Thailand and beyond. Through its contributions, the Unit plays a vital role in advancing rational drug use (RDU) and addressing global challenges such as antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and trending issues as telepharmacy and AI in pharmacy services and administration.

In addition to advancing research and action, SPRU emphasizes collaboration and capacity building by partnering with international and national organizations to foster knowledge exchange and drive improvements in health systems.

2. Research Scope

SPRU’s research scope encompasses a wide range of topics in social pharmacy and health systems, including:

• Rational Drug Use (RDU): Promoting rational drug use at all levels, from healthcare facilities (e.g., RDU hospitals and service plans) to communities (RDU Community) and national policies (RDU Country framework).
• Health Services Research: Investigating the organization and delivery of pharmaceutical care services at various levels, including hospital pharmacy, primary care pharmacy, and community pharmacy.
• Pharmacoeconomics and Health Technology Assessment (HTA): Evaluating the economic value of medicines and technologies to inform healthcare decision-making.
• Pharmacoepidemiology: Monitoring and analyzing the epidemiological impact of medicine use to identify patterns, outcomes, and potential safety concerns.
• Drug and Health Consumer Protection: Ensuring safe and effective medication use through research on consumer rights and health literacy.
• Policy and System Development: Supporting the development of pharmaceutical and health systems and policies to address emerging healthcare needs.

By applying social sciences and management perspectives, SPRU aims to create a comprehensive understanding of pharmaceutical systems and their impact on society, driving innovation and promoting sustainable health outcomes.

3. Highlights

Highlights of the Social Pharmacy Research Unit (SPRU), Faculty of Pharmacy, Mahasarakham University include:

1. Cutting-Edge Research and Funding:
   1. SPRU has received significant internal and external research funding to conduct impactful projects on health system improvement, pharmacoeconomics, and rational drug use.
2. High-Impact Publications:
   1. The Unit has produced numerous publications in leading national and international journals, contributing to advancements in areas like RDU, health technology assessment, and community health.
3. Policy and Community Engagement:
   1. SPRU’s research has informed policies at local and international levels and has been adopted by key stakeholders, enhancing health outcomes in communities.
4. Innovative Activities:
   1. Conducts projects on economic evaluation of health measures, pharmaceutical system monitoring, and collaboration with national and regional health networks.
5. Global and National Collaborations:
   1. Works with international organizations like WHO and national bodies, contributing to capacity building and knowledge exchange in health systems research.

These highlights showcase SPRU’s commitment to advancing public health through research, policy advocacy, and education, driving innovation in social and administrative pharmacy.

4. Our Members

SPRU’s members include faculties and researchers in the Faculty of Pharmacy as listed below.