Artificial intelligence to revolutionise Greek pharmacies

Artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping the future of pharmaceutical care — not as a replacement for pharmacists, but as their new ally. This was the central theme of the 25th PHARMA point conference held in Thessaloniki, organized by the Thessaloniki Pharmaceutical Association. Under the motto “25 years of PHARMA point: With the Sophia of yesterday... we envision tomorrow,” experts explored how AI can enhance, rather than replace, human expertise in healthcare.

During a roundtable discussion, “Sophia” — an AI voice — symbolically participated, saying: “I’m not here to take the pharmacist’s place but to become their right hand — a second brain that processes data, while humans retain judgment, empathy, and responsibility.”

The conversation centered on the growing presence of AI in Greek pharmacies — from data-driven tools and automated stock management to systems that predict patient needs. Dionysios Evgenidis, President of the Thessaloniki Pharmaceutical Association, emphasized that pharmacists remain the final decision-makers. “AI will serve the pharmacist — not the other way around,” he said. “Technology should free our hands, not tie them.”

Evgenidis noted that AI is already transforming production plants and pharmaceutical warehouses and will soon reach community pharmacies fully “trained” to assist with real needs, such as drug interactions, shortages, and personalized care. Especially in rural areas, he added, AI could be a “true ally” by offering rapid and reliable information to isolated professionals.

Addressing ethical concerns, “Sophia” clarified that responsibility for any AI-driven errors lies with “the humans who design, develop, and manage the technology.” She emphasized that “AI is a support tool, not a decision-maker.”

Data privacy was another major theme. “Protecting personal health data is fundamental,” said Sophia, adding that all AI systems must include encryption, strict access protocols, and transparent oversight. Collaboration between technologists, lawyers, and healthcare professionals is vital to maintaining public trust.

Panelists agreed that despite the rise of technology, the human connection between pharmacist and patient remains irreplaceable. “The emotional bond is what makes the pharmacist ‘our person,’” participants noted. Sophia herself acknowledged: “My role is to strengthen trust and collaboration, not to replace empathy.”

Sofia Kounoupa, General Director of Noufio Communication Services, reminded participants that “AI is not science fiction — it’s already present in daily pharmacy operations,” from digital inventory management to predictive ordering systems. “It even determines what you’ll need to restock six months from now,” she said.

Highlighting the importance of equitable access, Kounoupa called for government support to help all pharmacies — large and small — adopt smart tools without prohibitive costs. “Just as e-prescription once seemed complex but became universal, AI can follow the same path,” she said.

The discussion, moderated by journalist Katerina Papakostopoulou, concluded that AI is not a threat but an invitation to collaborate. The challenge for Greece’s pharmacies, participants agreed, is to find the golden balance — embracing innovation without losing humanity.