Everything today is online. Yes, even your nearby pharmacy has an online presence, and for a very good reason. People lean more towards an online offering than an offline one for a multitude of reasons. This fact is reflected in the staggering growth projections of the online pharmacy market, which is expected to reach a value of USD 182.22 billion by 2027, with a remarkable compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 17.26%.
It's no wonder pharmacy store owners are eager to seize this golden opportunity by building online pharmacy apps. If you're one of them, you've come to the right place. In this detailed guide, we'll walk you through the ins and outs of developing a pharma application that caters to the needs of today's tech-savvy customers. So, let's dive in and unlock the secrets to success in this thriving industry!
What is an Online Pharmacy?
An online pharmacy is a digital platform enabling individuals to purchase medications and healthcare products online conveniently. It provides a virtual interface where users can browse a wide range of medicines, place orders, upload medicine orders, make secure payments, and have their medications delivered to their doorstep. Online pharmacies typically have a user-friendly interface and intuitive features that make the entire process seamless and efficient.
The importance of online pharmacy apps has skyrocketed in recent years. With the increasing reliance on digital solutions, these apps offer a convenient and time-saving alternative to traditional brick-and-mortar pharmacies. According to a Statista report, the popularity of pharmaceutical apps became evident when big pharma companies recorded 5.6 million downloads in 2016. A notable example is Walmart's pharmacy app, which experienced significant success in simplifying the wellness needs of people, with 77% of users in the USA utilizing it from 2020 to 2021.
The global impact of COVID-19 has been unprecedented and staggering, showing dramatic growth in all the m-health industries, and the e-pharmacy is expected to reach $177.8 billion by 2026 in market size. According to a report by Fortune Business Insights, the global pharmaceuticals market exhibited a rise of 8.4% in 2020 as compared to 2019.
Online Pharmacy Future & Trends
The future of online pharmacies is poised for significant growth and innovation, driven by various trends and factors shaping the industry. One notable trend is the increased adoption of telemedicine and e-health solutions. With advancements in technology, patients are now able to consult with healthcare professionals remotely, receive medicine orders online, and conveniently order medications through online pharmacy apps. This trend provides greater accessibility to healthcare services, especially for individuals in remote areas or with limited mobility.
Technological advancements continue to play a pivotal role in shaping the online pharmacy landscape. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning algorithms allows for personalized medicine recommendations and efficient inventory management.
Mobile apps and wearable devices also enable users to track their health parameters and receive medication reminders, enhancing overall patient care and medication adherence.
As the online pharmacy industry evolves, regulatory considerations and compliance become crucial factors. Governments and regulatory bodies are implementing guidelines to ensure the safety, authenticity, and legality of online pharmacies.
Compliance with privacy regulations and secure online transactions are also paramount to protecting patient data and maintaining trust in the digital healthcare ecosystem.
Why It's Essential for Pharmacy Store Owners to Build an App
If all the numbers given above don't convince you, here are some more reasons to consider building a pharmacy app
Expand reach and customer base
An app helps reach a wider audience, including remote areas with limited access to physical pharmacies.
Streamline operations and enhance efficiency
Features like automated reminders and simplified order processing improve efficiency and customer service.
Leverage technology for competitive advantage
An app demonstrates innovation, providing convenient features and setting the pharmacy apart from competitors.
Meet customer expectations and convenience
An app offers a user-friendly interface, easy ordering, and fast delivery, meeting customers' demands for convenience.
Who Can Use a Pharmacy App?
A pharmacy app caters to various entities within the pharmaceutical industry, including:
Individual Pharmacy Stores
Individual pharmacy stores can use a dedicated app to establish their digital presence, enabling customers to conveniently access their products and services. With features like online ordering, medicine order uploads, and medication reminders, individual pharmacies can enhance customer engagement and loyalty.
Pharmacy Chains
Pharmacy chains can leverage a centralized app to streamline operations across multiple locations. Through the app, they can manage inventory, coordinate medicine order transfers, and offer consistent services to their customers. Features like loyalty programs and personalized recommendations can also enhance customer retention and drive sales.
Pharmacy Marketplaces
Pharmacy marketplaces act as intermediaries between pharmacies and customers. They can develop an app to facilitate seamless transactions, connecting users to a wide range of pharmacies and products. By integrating search filters, customer reviews, and secure payment options, pharmacy marketplaces can create a convenient and trusted platform for users to explore and purchase medications.
Key Features to Include in Online Pharmacy Apps
Online pharmacy apps incorporate a range of essential features that cater to the needs of customers, administrators, and pharmacists. Let's explore the key features in each category:
Customer App Features
User-friendly & Easy-to-use UI
The customer app boosts a user-friendly interface, ensuring a seamless and engaging experience. Its minimalist and modern design enhances accessibility and ease of use. The app's user interface is designed to be intuitive and visually appealing, ensuring ease of navigation and enhancing user engagement.
Super-fast Search and Buy
Customers can swiftly search for specific medicines or browse through categories, enabling them to find and purchase the required products without any hassle. They can search for medicines using text or even voice commands, ensuring a swift and efficient buying process.
Upload Medicine Order
With a simple photo upload feature, customers can conveniently submit their medicine medicine orders directly through the app. This streamlines the ordering process, eliminating the need for manual entry.
Dose Reminder
The app allows users to set personalized dose reminders with descriptions, ensuring they never miss their medications. They can modify and manage these reminders to stay on track with their treatment plans.
Order History
Customers have access to their order history within the app, facilitating easy reordering and providing a comprehensive overview of past purchases. The order information includes details such as order ID, order date, delivery date, and total amount, providing a comprehensive overview of their purchase history.
Find Substitutes
This feature suggests alternative and cost-effective options based on the composition of the searched item, enabling customers to explore substitutes and make informed choice considering their budgets and preferences.
Admin Panel Features
Abandoned Cart Report
The admin panel provides insights into customers who add items to their cart but do not complete the purchase. This data helps administrators identify potential sales opportunities and offer incentives to encourage conversion.
Manage Orders
Administrators can efficiently view and manage all orders from a centralized panel. They can assign orders to pharmacists, track order status, and ensure smooth order fulfillment.
Order Return/Refund
This feature allows administrators to accept and process partial or full returns on orders, initiating refunds directly to customers' wallets or bank accounts.
Simple and Clickable Banners:
Administrators can upload clickable banners on the app's home page, effectively promoting special offers, new products, or seasonal discounts to drive customer engagement and increase sales.
Reports and Analytics
The admin panel generates detailed reports and analytics, offering valuable insights into top-performing pharmacy shops, highest-selling products, and consumer spending patterns. This data aids in strategic decision-making and optimizing business operations.
Create Multiple Sub-admins
Administrators can create multiple sub-admin accounts with restricted access to specific functions, enabling efficient management of various tasks and delegating responsibilities.
Pharmacist Panel Features:
Manage Product Catalog
Pharmacists can classify products into categories, assign priorities, and provide discounts, ensuring a well-organized and up-to-date product catalog.
Content Management
This feature allows pharmacists to compile and update information about available medicines, including details on composition, usage, and side effects, providing valuable resources to customers.
View Medicine Order
Pharmacists can easily view and verify medicine orders received through the app, ensuring accuracy and prompt processing.
Order Notification
Real-time alerts about new orders and successful order deliveries are sent to pharmacists via email and push notifications, facilitating efficient order management and timely responses.
Live Chat
Pharmacists can engage in real-time communication with customers, addressing queries, providing medication guidance, and offering personalized assistance for enhanced customer satisfaction.
Sales Reports
The pharmacist panel generates daily, weekly, or monthly sales reports, enabling pharmacists to monitor their performance, identify trends, and make data-driven decisions to optimize sales strategies.
Online Pharmacy App Benefits
Online pharmacy apps offer a wide range of benefits to pharmacies, administrators, and users alike. Let's explore the advantages of each category.
Benefits for Pharmacies:
- Expanded Reach: Reach a broader customer base and tap into new markets.
- Streamlined Operations: Optimize workflow and reduce manual errors.
- Improved Customer Engagement: Foster long-term relationships and loyalty.
Benefits for Admin:
- Centralized Management: Efficiently overseas orders, sales, and inventory.
- Data-driven Decision-making: Use analytics for informed strategies.
- Efficient Communication: Smooth coordination between stakeholders.
Benefits for Users:
- Convenience and Accessibility: Order from home with ease.
- Time and Cost Savings: Quick search and competitive prices.
- Medication Management: Set reminders and track history easily.
Steps to Build Your Own Pharmacy App
Building your own pharmacy app requires careful planning and execution. Here are the essential steps to guide you through the process:
1. Market Research and Analysis: Understand the target audience, market trends, and competitors to identify unique selling points and opportunities.
2. Defining App Requirements and Objectives: Clearly outline your app's features, functionality, and goals to ensure alignment with your business objectives.
3. Choosing the Right Development Partner: Select a reliable and experienced app development company that understands your vision and has expertise in pharmacy app development.
4. Designing the User Interface and Experience: Create an intuitive and visually appealing interface that enhances user experience and simplifies navigation.
5. App Development and Testing: Develop the app, ensuring it is bug-free and responsive across different devices and platforms. Thoroughly test its functionality, performance, and security.
6. Launching and Marketing the App: Prepare a comprehensive marketing strategy to generate awareness and attract users. Promote your app through various channels, such as social media, app stores, and healthcare communities.
7. Post-Launch Support and Maintenance: Continuously monitor and update your app to enhance its performance, address user feedback, and incorporate new features or security updates. Provide timely customer support to ensure a seamless user experience.
Ready to Build Your Online Pharmacy App?
Building an online pharmacy app offers immense opportunities for pharmacy store owners to expand their reach, improve customer satisfaction, and optimize operations. By understanding the key aspects and following the outlined steps, businesses can embark on a successful journey in the digital healthcare landscape.
Are you looking to partner with a reliable app development partner? How about choosing a development company that specializes in healthcare apps? That’s EMed for you. We offer exactly what you’re looking for while cutting down your development time and costs.
With our ready-made online pharmacy solution, you get a native Android App, iOS App, and website. We can also customize the whole thing for your business, matching your exact needs and goals.
More Reasons to Choose EMed HealthTech for Online Pharmacy App Development
Our team at EMed HealthTech specializes in online pharmacy app development. Our solution has served many healthcare businesses, and many of them continue to trust EMed for several reasons.
- We are specially equipped with expertise and experience in healthcare app development.
- Our solution offers a comprehensive package with customizable features.
- We prioritize strong security and compliance measures, so you don’t have to worry about it later.
- We provide ongoing support and upgrades to ensure the success of your online pharmacy app.
So if you’re ready to build a feature-rich and marketable online pharmacy app, the EMed team is here to help you get started. Get in touch with us today for custom quotes and more info!
Frequently Asked Questions for Pharma Application Development
1. Why should I invest in building an online pharmacy app for my store?
Building an online pharmacy app can significantly benefit your store by expanding your reach, increasing customer convenience, and boosting operational efficiency. It allows you to tap into the growing trend of digital healthcare and cater to your customer's changing needs and expectations.
2. How can an online pharmacy app help streamline my pharmacy operations?
An online pharmacy app automates various processes such as medicine ordering, inventory management, and order tracking, thereby streamlining your operations. It reduces manual errors, saves time, and enables seamless coordination between staff members, enhancing efficiency and productivity.
3. What features should I look for in an online pharmacy app?
Look for an app that offers user-friendly interfaces, super-fast search and buy functionality, medicine order uploading, dose reminders, order history, and the ability to find substitutes. Additionally, consider features like abandoned cart reports, order management, return/refund options, and robust analytics for effective administration.
4. How can I ensure the security and privacy of customer data through an online pharmacy app?
Choose a developer that emphasizes strong security measures and compliance with industry standards. They should incorporate data encryption, secure payment gateways, and strict privacy policies to safeguard customer information, ensuring a safe and trustworthy platform for transactions.
5. What sets your pharma app development services apart from others?
We differentiate ourselves through our expertise in developing healthcare apps, providing comprehensive solutions with customizable features tailored to your needs. We prioritize security and compliance, backed by a proven track record and positive client testimonials. Our ongoing support and upgrades ensure a seamless experience for both you and your customers.