Why did the e-pharmacy market flourish over the years all of a sudden?

When COVID-19 hit, the way we accessed medical services and medicines changed dramatically. On one side, the world rushed to build COVID-related healthcare infrastructure, while demand for treatments for other common ailments took a back seat. With lockdowns and the fear of infection keeping people at home, many across India turned to online deliveries for almost everything- groceries, gadgets, and even medicines.

While the pandemic gave e-pharmacies in India a sudden boost, several factors had already set the stage for this growth.

• For starters, internet usage has been on the rise, with a growth rate of 18.17% between 2015 and 2019. It's expected to keep climbing, at around 8.78% annually by 2025. More people getting online means more potential customers for e-commerce, including online pharmacies.

• Consumer habits are changing too. Even before the pandemic, people were starting to prefer shopping online, but COVID-19 accelerated that shift. A survey by Razorpay found that e-commerce transactions jumped by 71.3% between April and September 2020, and smaller cities saw a 53% year-over-year growth in online shopping.

• Government initiatives are also playing a big role. Programs like the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) aim to make quality, affordable medicines available across the country, further driving the growth of e-pharmacies.

After seeing such positive aspects of having a pharmacy app, you must be considering taking your own pharmacy business online. We don’t want you to wait any longer, so let’s read everything in detail.

How to begin with a customer-focused pharmacy app development?

If you're ready for pharma app development, here’s a simple guide to get you started, based on our 6+ years of experience and over 350+ projects.

1. Research the Market and Understand Competitors

Begin by diving into the market to see which popular pharmacy apps you might want to use as inspiration. Learn from what’s already out there- check out their tips, features, and clever design tricks. Make sure you know what your target audience needs, so you can set clear goals for your app.

2. Decide on the Key Features

Start with a Minimum Viable Product (MVP), a basic version of your app that allows you to test your idea without spending too much. Use your research to identify the must-have features for your app, and build a clear vision of what you want to offer.

3. Pick the Right Development Team

You have three options: outsource to a development company, hire freelancers, or build an in-house team. Outsourcing is often the most efficient and cost-effective route. Look for a development partner who has experience with healthcare apps- they’ll understand the unique requirements and challenges.

4. Design the User Experience

At Antino, we start by creating a mindmap to visually lay out your app's concept, followed by wireframes- simple sketches of the app’s layout. The goal is to keep the design clean and user-friendly so that people can easily find what they need. We then create a design concept and a UI kit with all the essential elements like fonts, icons, and buttons. Throughout this process, we make sure to get your feedback to fine-tune the design.

5. Create a Prototype

Early on, building a prototype is key. It gives you a working model of how users will interact with your app. As Figma’s Tom Lowry says, “Prototyping is a quick way to go from sketches to a simulation where you can get user feedback.” We use tools like Figma to map out the user journey, collect feedback, and make improvements to ensure a smooth experience.

6. Start Development

For a pharmacy app, it’s best to start with a mobile version, as most people will use their phones to order medicines. To reach more users, develop for both Android and iOS. Using React Native is a smart choice since it allows you to create a single app that works on both platforms, saving time and money while still being reliable.

7. Launch and Keep Improving

Once your app is live, listen to user feedback and make regular updates. For a pharmacy app, this is especially important- keep it secure, updated, and easy to use. Pay close attention to updates and protect user data to build trust and keep your customers happy.

Now that you’re aware of how to proceed with pharma application development, you must also know about the different types of pharmaceutical apps present in the industry. So, let’s give it a thorough read.

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Types of pharmaceutical apps in the industry

Before jumping into developing an online pharmacy app, it’s crucial to understand the types of pharmacy apps already out there. This knowledge helps you choose the right approach, tailor your product to market needs, and address key elements of healthcare app development. Here’s a closer look at the main types of pharmacy apps, with examples to illustrate how they work.

Marketplace Apps

You can consider marketplace apps as the “Amazon” of the pharmacy world. They aggregate products from multiple suppliers, allowing users to browse, compare, and order medicines from different pharmacies all in one place. For instance, platforms like 1mg and Netmeds in India or PharmacyChecker in the U.S. allow customers to access a wide variety of medications, often at competitive prices.

Pros

• Diverse Selection: You’re not limited to one pharmacy’s inventory, so users have a broader selection of medicines.

• Supplier Flexibility: You can partner with various pharmacies, making it easier to meet diverse customer needs.

Cons

• Complex Logistics: You’ll need to manage your own delivery systems, which can be challenging, especially when dealing with medications requiring specific handling conditions.

• Data Management: Aggregating data on medications from multiple sources can be complex, requiring robust systems to ensure accuracy and compliance.

Online Store Apps

These apps are tied to a specific pharmacy or chain, much like how CVS or Walgreens have their dedicated apps. They allow customers to browse the inventory, order refills and often offer loyalty points. While these apps are limited to one pharmacy’s products, they benefit from existing supply chains and established customer service practices.

Pros

• Streamlined Processes: Integrated with the pharmacy’s established supply chains and data systems, making the app reliable and efficient.

• Customer Loyalty: Features like rewards, personalized offers, and direct communication channels help build customer trust and retention.

Cons

• Limited Product Range: Customers are restricted to what that particular pharmacy offers, which might not be as comprehensive as a marketplace.

• Less Price Competition: Users cannot easily compare prices across different pharmacies.

Chain Management Apps

These are specialized apps built for internal use within a pharmacy chain or pharmaceutical company, focusing on managing operations like inventory, logistics, and analytics. For example, a company like Boots might use an app to streamline its stock management, ensuring that medications are in stock and deliveries are on time.

Pros

• Operational Efficiency: Automates many back-end processes, reducing errors and improving service delivery.

• Advanced Analytics: Provides data-driven insights to optimize inventory and sales strategies.

Cons

• Not Customer-Facing: These apps are meant for internal use, so they don’t directly drive customer engagement.

• Implementation Complexity: Integrating such apps within existing systems can be complex and time-consuming.

Handbook Apps

These apps are like a digital library for pharmacists, doctors, and patients, providing reliable information about medications, dosage guidelines, interactions, and more. Apps like Epocrates and Medscape are popular examples, offering up-to-date drug information, clinical guidelines, and tools like pill identifiers and interaction checkers.

Pros

• Trusted Information: Provides accurate, regularly updated information, which is crucial in healthcare.

• Convenience: Saves time for healthcare providers and patients by offering quick access to critical drug data.

Cons

• Constant Updates Needed: Medical information changes frequently, so the app must be regularly updated to remain relevant and trustworthy.

• Niche Audience: Mainly targeted at healthcare professionals, limiting its broader market appeal.

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Therefore, choosing the right type of pharmacy app depends on your goals and target audience because each type has its own set of challenges and opportunities. So, understanding these will help you carve out your niche in the healthcare app market. But how are you going to create an app after finalizing the type of app you want for your business? Let’s take a look at that as well.

Steps to build a next-gen pharmacy app

Building a pharmacy app is all about solving real-world problems for people who need quick and reliable access to medications. Whether you’re aiming to create a one-stop marketplace or a specialized tool for pharmacists, the process involves careful planning, thoughtful design, and constant adaptation. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started on developing a pharmacy app that genuinely serves its users.

1. Start with Research and Planning

Before you jump into development, take some time to understand the market. Ask yourself: Who is this app for? Are you targeting busy parents needing quick prescription refills, doctors checking drug interactions, or pharmacies looking to streamline their operations?

• Look at Your Competition: Check out existing apps like GoodRx, Netmeds, or Walgreens. What are they doing well? Where do they fall short? Understanding what’s already out there will help you carve your niche and offer something unique.

• Set Your Goals: Define the primary purpose of your app. Is it to simplify the buying process for customers? Offer an extensive drug database? Or maybe streamline pharmacy operations? Clear objectives will guide every step of your app development journey.

2. Decide on the Features You Need

Think about what will make your app valuable to users. Here are some features to kickstart the development process.

• Easy Sign-Up and Profiles: Allow users to sign up with a few clicks using their phone number, email, or social media accounts. Profiles should save details like medical history, saved prescriptions, and preferred payment methods for a hassle-free experience.
• Smart Search and Filters: Make it easy for users to find what they need by adding filters like drug categories, symptoms, or price ranges. A simple, effective search bar can make all the difference.
• Prescription Uploads: Let users upload prescriptions directly through the app, making it easy for doctors to prescribe and patients to purchase.
• Medication Info Hub: Offer detailed information on each drug, including dosage, potential side effects, and interaction warnings. This feature not only builds trust but also helps users make informed decisions.
• Secure Payments: Incorporate trusted payment gateways like GooglePay, PhonePe, or local payment options. Ensuring users feel safe when making transactions is crucial.
• Real-Time Order Tracking: Show users where their order is and when it’s expected to arrive. Clear communication reduces anxiety and builds trust.
• Reminders and Notifications: Help users stick to their medication schedules by sending reminders for doses and refills.
• Customer Support Chat: Whether it’s a live chat, chatbot, or a simple FAQ section, make sure help is easily accessible when users need it.

3. Design a Friendly and Intuitive Interface

Your app’s design is the first impression you make, so keep it clean, simple, and easy to use. Remember, your users are often not tech experts, they’re regular people looking for a quick and reliable service.

• Keep It Simple: Don’t overwhelm users with too many options. Use clear icons, easy navigation, and avoid clutter. Think about the last time you got frustrated with an app- what drove you nuts? Don’t do that.
• Mobile First: Since most people will be accessing your app on their phones, ensure it’s responsive and works smoothly on all devices, whether it’s a smartphone, tablet, or even a smartwatch.
• Accessibility Matters: Design for everyone, including those with disabilities. Features like voice commands, text resizing, and high-contrast modes can make a big difference.

4. Build the App with the Right Tools

Choose the right technology stack based on your app’s needs. You might use React Native or Flutter for the front end, which helps create a smooth user experience. For the backend, consider Node.js or Django, which can handle the complex data processing that a pharmacy app requires.

• Security First: Make sure the app complies with health regulations like HIPAA or GDPR. This means encrypting sensitive data, securing login processes, and regularly updating to protect against vulnerabilities.
• APIs Integration: To enhance your app, integrate APIs for features like drug information, payment processing, and real-time delivery tracking. APIs help you offer more without building everything from scratch.

5. Test, Test, and Test Again

Testing is not just a box to tick, it’s a vital step to ensure everything works smoothly before launching. Conduct thorough testing on all features which are as follows,

• Functional Testing: Does every button do what it’s supposed to? Are users getting stuck anywhere?
•  Usability Testing: Watch real people use your app. Where do they hesitate? What confuses them? This feedback is invaluable.
• Performance Testing: Test your app under various conditions, including high traffic, slow internet, and different device types. You want your app to be as quick as possible- slow speeds are a major turnoff.
• Security Testing: Regularly check for vulnerabilities to ensure that user data is always protected. Hacks or data breaches can destroy trust overnight.

6. Launch and Learn

Don’t aim for perfection on day one, rather, aim for progress. Start with a soft launch or beta version for a small audience. Gather feedback, see what works, and identify areas that need tweaking.

• Marketing Your App: Plan a launch strategy that includes social media, email marketing, and maybe even partnerships with healthcare influencers. The goal is to get in front of the people who need your app most.
• Feedback Loop: Keep listening to your users. What do they like? What do they want more of? Use their feedback to guide updates and improvements.

7. Keep It Fresh with Regular Updates

The work doesn’t stop after launch. Continuously update your app to add new features, fix bugs, and adapt to new technologies. Use analytics to understand user behavior and refine the app to better meet their needs.n Always try to offer reliable support to handle any issues. Quick responses and helpful service can turn a one-time user into a loyal customer for years to come.

Since you’re clear about how to create a full-fledged pharmacy app, now it’s time to look at the features you should include to give it a next-gen feel.

Must-have features to include while considering pharma app development

Developing a pharma app that stands out means going beyond just the basics. It’s about crafting an experience that truly makes a difference for users, whether they’re patients needing a quick refill or doctors seeking seamless communication. Here are the must-have features and next-gen additions to consider for your pharma app:

1. Simple and User-Friendly Interface

A clutter-free, intuitive design is key to making sure users, whether patients or healthcare providers, can navigate the app easily. Keep sign-ups quick, organize features clearly, and make sure important functions are just a tap away.

2. Easy Prescription Management

Managing prescriptions should be hassle-free. Include features like uploading prescriptions with a quick photo, tracking medications, and automatic reminders to take or refill meds. This transforms the app into a reliable digital helper that keeps users on track.

3. Medication Reminders with Personal Touches

Automated medication reminders are a must, but why not make them smarter? Offer personalized alert settings based on the user’s schedule- morning, afternoon, or night- to better fit their daily routine.

4. AI-Powered Health Tips

Your app can be more than just a tool; it can be a companion in the user’s health journey. By using AI to analyze habits and medication routines, you can offer tailored health tips that help users manage their conditions more effectively.

5. Quick, Secure Payments

Streamlined, secure payments are essential. Support a range of payment methods, from credit cards to digital wallets, and ensure top-notch security with encryption and compliance standards like PCI-DSS to protect user information.

6. Virtual Consultations and 24/7 Chat

Teleconsultation features connect users with doctors directly through the app, offering a convenient way to seek advice or follow up on treatment. Adding 24/7 chat support also allows quick access to answers for everyday health queries.

7. Voice Commands for Accessibility

Incorporate voice commands to make the app even easier to use. Users can search for medicines, set up reminders, or check drug interactions just by speaking, making the app accessible to those who might struggle with typing.

8. AR for Medication Guidance

Augmented Reality (AR) can offer interactive medication instructions, making it easier for users to understand how to take their meds correctly. This feature can turn complex directions into simple, visual step-by-step guides.

9. Blockchain Security for Data Integrity

Next-gen security goes beyond passwords. Using blockchain technology can provide a highly secure way to store sensitive health data, ensuring that all information remains private, transparent, and tamper-proof.

10. Engaging Push Notifications

Push notifications help keep users engaged without being overwhelming. Offer reminders about refills, updates on their orders, and personalized health tips that keep the app relevant in their day-to-day lives.

11. Drug Interaction Alerts

A feature that checks for drug interactions is crucial, but it’s even better when it’s clear and visually engaging. Highlight risky combinations with simple alerts that make it obvious when something isn’t right.

12. Real-Time Order Tracking

Waiting for medication can be stressful. Including real-time tracking features for deliveries gives users peace of mind, letting them know exactly where their order is and when it’ll arrive.

13. Doctor and Pharmacy Finder

A locator tool helps users find nearby doctors, clinics, and pharmacies with ease. Including real-time availability helps users quickly connect with healthcare services when they need them most.

14. Inclusive Design with Multi-Language Support

Ensure the app is usable for everyone by offering multiple languages and accessibility options like larger text, screen readers, or high-contrast modes.

Creating a standout pharma app means incorporating these key features that cater to today’s digital-savvy users. With thoughtful design and innovative functionality, your app can help users manage their health easily and confidently. However, including next-gen features aren’t enough if your app is not compliant. Want to know more about compliance? Read ahead.

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Compliance requirement for pharma app development

Pharmaceutical apps have transformed healthcare by providing patients and professionals with easy access to medical information, drug details, and prescriptions. However, due to the sensitive nature of health-related data, pharma app development is subject to strict compliance standards in various regions. Understanding these regulations is crucial for developing an app that meets legal and industry standards. Below is a breakdown of compliance requirements in the UAE, US, and India.

UAE Compliance Requirements

In the UAE, healthcare and pharmaceutical apps are regulated under several laws to ensure privacy, data security, and patient safety.

1. Data Protection Law (DPL): The UAE recently introduced its Federal Data Protection Law No. 45 of 2021 (DPL). Pharma apps must adhere to the guidelines ensuring that user data, including health data, is processed lawfully and with consent.
2. Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP): Developers need to follow guidelines set by MOHAP, which regulates the promotion and distribution of pharmaceutical products through digital platforms. This ensures that pharmaceutical information shared through apps is reliable and accurate.
3. Telehealth Guidelines: If the app provides telemedicine services, it must comply with the Telehealth Guidelines of the UAE. This includes restrictions on cross-border healthcare services and patient data storage.
4. HIPAA-Like Standards: While the UAE doesn't have a HIPAA equivalent, maintaining similar standards in terms of data encryption and protection is advisable to ensure patient data security.

US Compliance Requirements

The United States has one of the most comprehensive sets of regulations for healthcare and pharmaceutical apps, particularly regarding patient data and drug information.

1. Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA): HIPAA compliance is mandatory for any pharma app that deals with protected health information (PHI). This includes implementing strict data encryption, access control, and secure data storage practices.
2. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Guidelines: The FDA regulates mobile apps that function as medical devices or provide clinical decision support. If the pharma app provides diagnostic tools or drug monitoring, FDA approval may be required.
3. HITECH Act: The HITECH Act complements HIPAA, enhancing data security measures and ensuring that breaches of patient data are reported promptly.
4. 21 CFR Part 11: This regulation applies to electronic records and signatures, ensuring that any data captured and stored by the app can be accurately reproduced and is secure against unauthorized changes.
5. GDPR for US-Based Multinationals: If the app caters to users in Europe or processes data from the EU, compliance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is also required.

India Compliance Requirements

India's pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors are rapidly digitizing, with several regulations in place to protect patient data and ensure ethical use of pharmaceuticals through apps.

1. Information Technology (Reasonable Security Practices and Procedures and Sensitive Personal Data or Information) Rules, 2011: These rules govern how personal data, including health-related information, must be handled and stored securely. Pharma apps must ensure user consent before collecting or processing sensitive health information.
2. Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940: Pharma apps that provide information or sell pharmaceutical products must comply with the regulations in this Act to ensure that the drugs being promoted or sold through the app meet quality and safety standards.
3. Telemedicine Practice Guidelines: Issued by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, these guidelines regulate how telemedicine is practiced through apps, ensuring that healthcare services are provided ethically and safely.
4. Personal Data Protection Bill (Expected): India is in the process of introducing a new data protection law, the Digital Personal Data Protection Bill, 2023. Once implemented, pharma apps will need to adhere to stricter guidelines regarding the processing, storage, and protection of health-related data.
5. Pharmacy Council of India Guidelines: If the app offers online pharmaceutical services, it must comply with the regulations set by the Pharmacy Council of India to ensure the legitimate sale and distribution of medicines.

By adhering to these compliance standards, pharma apps can effectively navigate the regulatory landscape in the UAE, US, and India, ensuring they provide secure, reliable, and legally compliant services. But, how much does building a pharmacy app cost? Let’s take a look at that as well.

Average cost of pharmacy app development

Pharmacy apps have become an essential part of healthcare, offering features like prescription management, drug delivery, teleconsultation, and patient education. The cost of developing an app varies significantly depending on the app’s complexity, features, design, and technology stack. Typically, development costs fall into three main categories: simple, advanced, and complex apps. Let's dive into the factors influencing the cost and provide an estimate for each category.

Key Factors Influencing the Cost of Pharmacy App Development

1. App Features: The more features you add, such as real-time tracking, video consultations, or payment gateways, the higher the development cost.
2. Platform: Developing an app for a single platform (iOS or Android) will cost less than building a cross-platform app.
3. UI/UX Design: Custom designs and user-friendly interfaces require more effort and resources, thereby increasing the overall cost.
4. Backend Infrastructure: If your app requires complex databases, high-level security measures, or advanced APIs, these will increase both the time and budget needed.
5. Third-Party Integrations: Integrating APIs for services like payment gateways, drug databases, or delivery systems adds complexity and cost.
6. Testing and Maintenance: Post-development costs, including regular updates, bug fixes, and server maintenance, should be factored in.

Estimated Cost Breakdown for Different Types of Pharmacy Apps

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Simple Pharmacy App Development

A simple pharmacy app typically includes essential features like drug search, user registration, and order placement. These apps generally target a local pharmacy or a small chain and provide basic functionality like managing prescriptions and refilling orders.

• Key Features: User login, drug catalog, prescription management, push notifications.
• Estimated Cost: $10,000 - $30,000
• Development Time: 3-6 months

Advanced Pharmacy App Development

Advanced apps cater to larger chains or offer more complex services, such as integrating a payment gateway, drug tracking, and notifications. This type of app may support multiple users and manage larger volumes of data, such as user profiles and payment histories.

• Key Features: Online payments, order tracking, user profile management, push notifications, backend database.
• Estimated Cost: $30,000 - $60,000
• Development Time: 6-9 months

Complex Pharmacy App Development

Complex pharmacy apps are designed for large-scale operations, including multi-pharmacy chains or apps serving international markets. These apps often have advanced features like telemedicine, AI-based drug recommendations, and video consultations with doctors. Security and compliance (e.g., HIPAA) are crucial, and the app may require multi-language support and cross-platform capabilities.

• Key Features: AI-driven recommendations, telemedicine, video consultations, multi-platform support, complex backend, high-end security.
• Estimated Cost: $60,000 - $150,000+
• Development Time: 9-12+ months

Additional Cost Considerations:

• Ongoing Maintenance: Regular updates and bug fixes typically cost 20-30% of the initial development cost per year.
• App Hosting: Cloud storage, hosting services, and backend infrastructure can cost anywhere from $500 to $10,000 annually, depending on user volume and data storage needs.
• Compliance Costs: For pharmacy apps, compliance with data privacy and health regulations like HIPAA (US) or GDPR (EU) can add an additional layer of cost, especially for security features.

Therefore, pharmacy app development costs can vary based on the app's complexity, features, and the development team's location and expertise. Understanding your business needs and long-term goals is key to determining which type of pharmacy app fits your budget.

By selecting the right development partner and carefully planning the app's features and architecture, you can ensure your pharmacy app meets both user expectations and regulatory requirements within your desired budget.

How can Antino help with pharmaceutical app development?

Antino being a specialised on demand app development company helps in building robust, user-friendly, and compliant pharmaceutical apps that meet industry standards and cater to modern healthcare needs. Our team ensures that every app is designed to simplify operations, enhance patient engagement, and support healthcare providers in delivering better services.

As a trusted healthcare app development company, we offer end-to-end solutions tailored to the specific needs of the pharmaceutical sector. We develop apps that streamline prescription management, enable secure online consultations, offer drug delivery services, and ensure seamless integration with existing systems like EHR.

By partnering with us, you’re choosing a team that delivers cutting-edge solutions and brings extensive experience in the healthcare sector to ensure your pharmaceutical app stands out in a competitive market.

So, let Antino drive your digital transformation in the pharmaceutical space with secure, innovative, and compliant solutions. Contact with our experts now!