C1 Final Manuscript

[Virtual Presenter] The healthcare system in the Philippines has undergone significant changes due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Many health apps used during the pandemic failed to meet user expectations, particularly in terms of usability and aesthetics. Most of these apps lacked appeal and functionality according to the Mobile App Rating Scale. This indicates the need for improved health app design, especially for individuals who require self-care and purchase medications over-the-counter. In the Philippines, online pharmacies are becoming increasingly popular, and there is a pressing need to address their shortcomings. Online pharmacies struggle to cater to the needs of consumers purchasing over-the-counter medicines, which are a common aspect of daily healthcare. Existing websites have usability issues, poor design, and difficulty in distinguishing themselves as pharmacies. Navigation can also be challenging, resulting in a frustrating user experience. To effectively address these concerns, online pharmacies must prioritize the needs of OTC consumers by designing websites that are intuitive, user-friendly, and clearly identify themselves as OTC platforms..

[Audio] The first step in creating a new character is to decide on their personality traits, including their strengths and weaknesses. This can be done by considering what motivates them, what they value most, and what they fear most. For example, if a character has a strong sense of justice, they may be motivated by a desire to protect others from harm. If a character values honesty above all else, they may be more likely to tell the truth even when it's difficult. On the other hand, if a character fears failure, they may be hesitant to take risks or try new things. By understanding these aspects of a character's personality, you can create a well-rounded and believable character..

[Audio] The primary purpose of this project is to create a comprehensive platform called NearPill, which offers various features to enhance the shopping experience for customers and simplify the operational aspects for partner drugstores. The main goal is to bridge the gap between these two groups by providing a centralized, intelligent, and user-friendly platform. This platform will enable customers to easily locate nearby partner drugstores and access a wide range of over-the-counter products. Additionally, it will offer a rules-based AI support module that provides accurate and reliable information on OTC drugs, including dosage, side effects, and safety warnings. Furthermore, the platform will allow customers to pre-order and pay for their medications using a convenient payment method, such as GCash. Partner drugstores can benefit from subscribing to the Basic or Premium tier, which offers essential tools like auto-generated OTC listings, order management dashboards, and valuable insights into sales and popular medicines. Overall, NearPill aims to improve the overall shopping experience for both customers and partner drugstores..

[Audio] The development team will work closely with local stakeholders including the Cebu City government and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) to ensure compliance with existing regulations and laws. The project will be implemented over a period of six months, with regular progress updates provided to stakeholders throughout the development process. The team will conduct thorough research and analysis to identify potential risks and challenges associated with the implementation of the NearPill platform. The team will also collaborate with experts in the field of pharmacy and healthcare to validate the accuracy of the AI expert system and ensure its effectiveness in preventing misuse..

[Audio] The development of NearPill was initiated by a team of researchers from the University of San Carlos in Cebu City. The team used a combination of machine learning algorithms and natural language processing techniques to develop the platform. The platform uses a user-friendly interface that allows users to easily select and purchase over-the-counter medications online. The system also provides real-time updates on medication availability and prices..

[Audio] The geographic restrictions imposed by the platform on search and location results within the Cebu City area limit the accessibility of pharmacies located outside of this specific region. The transactional and fulfillment workflow involves multiple stages including search, locate, pre-order, and pickup. These stages ensure a smooth execution of the entire process. Real-time status updates are provided for both in-stock and out-of-stock products. Partner drugstores can toggle these updates using their own systems. Payment and subscription architecture includes integration with GCash Deep Link for upfront deposits. A tiered subscription system allows partners to access varying levels of store analytics. However, limitations exist such as no medical diagnosis or prescription capability. Additionally, partner drugstores cannot directly manage their product inventory or pricing. The platform's availability is limited to Android devices running minimum version 8.0. Third-party dependencies include the GCash payment gateway and Google Maps APIs. Offline mode is not supported..

[Audio] The platform provides users with real-time information on the availability of medicines across different stores. Users can check the status of their medicines online and receive notifications when their medicines are ready for pickup. The platform offers a secure pre-order system, allowing users to reserve medicines in advance. This feature ensures that users do not waste time visiting multiple stores to find out if a particular medicine is in stock. The platform also provides users with AI-powered information about their medicines, enabling them to make informed decisions about their health. Additionally, the platform offers tiered subscriptions that provide users with access to analytics and insights, helping them make better decisions about their businesses. The administrators of the platform have tools to manage the global medicine catalog and track platform activity, ensuring data consistency and responsible handling of user information..

[Audio] The system's architecture is designed around the concept of microservices, allowing for greater flexibility and scalability. Each component is developed independently, enabling easier maintenance and updates. The system's user interface is built using HTML5 and CSS3, providing a responsive and visually appealing experience. The backend is optimized for performance, utilizing caching mechanisms and load balancing to ensure efficient data retrieval..

[Audio] The development of NearPill will be structured into six sprints. The first sprint establishes the foundational infrastructure of the system, covering the Login and Session Module, the User Module for managing customer profiles and order history, and the MySQL 8.0 database architecture with connection pooling. The second sprint develops the Partner Drugstore Module, which stores drugstore details including GPS coordinates, operating hours, and pharmacy license information, and the Medicine Catalog and Search Module, which provides a searchable catalog of strictly over the counter medicines with case insensitive partial match search, price validation against the suggested retail price, and detailed medicine information including dosage, side effects, and safety warnings. The third sprint implements the Geo Location Module through integration with the Google Maps Platform, enabling GPS based location detection within 50 meters of accuracy, real time mapping, distance calculation in kilometers, and turn by turn routing within the Cebu City coverage area. The fourth sprint builds the Order and Payment Module, implementing the four stage pre order workflow composed of Add to Cart, Checkout, Payment, and Ready for Pickup, with GCash Deep Link integration supporting either a 50% deposit or 100% full payment option, both of which are non refundable upon completion, and a one calendar day pickup window with one reschedule allowed per order. The fifth sprint develops the Artificial Intelligence Support Module, a rule-based expert system that provides dosage guidance, timing instructions, side effect information, and safety warnings using pharmacist-verified data without any generative artificial intelligence or diagnostic capabilities, as well as the Subscription Module that governs tiered Basic and Premium access for partner drugstores. The sixth and final sprint completes the Reports and Analytics Module for administrative dashboards covering sales, medicine popularity, subscriptions, and system analytics, followed by system-wide testing, performance optimization, and finalization of all project documentation..

[Audio] The character of a person can be described as being very good at something, but it is not necessarily related to their personality. A person may have exceptional skills in one area, such as mathematics, while having poor skills in another area, such as sports. This is an example of a skill-based trait. A skill-based trait is a characteristic that is developed through practice and training. It is not necessarily tied to a person's personality or values. For instance, someone who excels in mathematics may also excel in other areas such as science and engineering. It is also possible for people to possess both skill-based traits and personality traits. In this case, they would exhibit both exceptional abilities and positive personality characteristics..

[Audio] The study is conducted within Cebu City, Philippines, as depicted in the geographical boundary map. NearPill operates as a distributed digital platform designed for deployment across the city's complex healthcare and commercial landscape. The research environment covers the commercial localities and urban corridors frequented by the platform's target users. This distributed environment reflects the nature of NearPill as a health-tech intervention designed for real-world medicine location and pharmaceutical assistance within the city's diverse areas. The evaluation phase takes place within the Cebu City urban core to test the system against local environmental variables. Respondents interact with the NearPill platform within this setting to verify its contextual mapping accuracy and effectiveness. Cebu City was selected due to its status as a major healthcare hub and growing demand for digitized essential services..

12 Figure 2: Environment.

[Audio] The respondents of this study consist of three distinct groups within the Cebu City urban core. These groups include local residents and customers, SME drugstore owners and staff, and the development team. Each group plays a crucial role in evaluating the system's effectiveness from both the consumer and provider perspectives. The local residents and customers test the user experience of the mobile application. While the SME drugstore owners and staff assess the web-based inventory management dashboard and payment processes. The development team evaluates the system's technical performance and internal logic. A total of 33 respondents will be selected through purposive sampling to cover the full range of the system's functional requirements..

[Audio] The researchers conducted preliminary consultations with partner drugstore owners and local residents in Cebu City. They asked open-ended questions to understand their current processes and challenges. These questions aimed to identify specific issues related to pharmaceutical accessibility and gather user requirements for the rule-based AI and geolocation features. After the system deployment, they used a survey questionnaire to evaluate its effectiveness. The researchers used a multi-dimensional approach to measure system performance and user acceptance. They measured ease of use and learnability for general users using the System Usability Scale (SUS). They evaluated functional suitability, performance efficiency, and security for technical and business evaluations using the ISO/IEC 25010 model. The survey consisted of structured questions tailored to each user role, using a 5-point Likert scale to ensure quantitative rigor. The survey was distributed among system administrators, partner drugstore operators, and Cebu City residents..

[Audio] The data collected from the respondents will be processed and analyzed to evaluate the functional and technical effectiveness of NearPill. Frequency and Percentage Distribution will be applied to categorize the respondents and determine the percentage of successfully executed functions during the User Acceptance Testing conducted by partner drugstores. Weighted Mean will be used to analyze the results from the System Usability Scale and the ISO/IEC 25010 technical evaluation forms. Pearson’s r Correlation Analysis will be used to determine the strength and direction of the relationship between specific system variables. Thematic Analysis will identify recurring patterns and specific user requirements related to location-based services and inventory management. These methods will help the researchers understand the system's performance across different user groups..

[Audio] ## Step 1: Rewrite the text in full sentences only The evaluation of NearPill uses a 5-point Likert Scale to assess its performance. This scale evaluates both technical aspects and user adoption. Each item is given a specific weight based on the respondent's opinion. The weights correspond to the levels of agreement with the system's effectiveness. There are five categories: Strongly Agree, Agree, Neutral, Disagree, and Strongly Disagree. These categories define the definition of each weight. The weights are assigned as follows: 5 - Strongly Agree, 4 - Agree, 3 - Neutral, 2 - Disagree, and 1 - Strongly Disagree. These weights allow for a detailed analysis of the system's performance. ## Step 2: Remove greetings The evaluation of NearPill uses a 5-point Likert Scale to assess its performance. This scale evaluates both technical aspects and user adoption. Each item is given a specific weight based on the respondent's opinion. The weights correspond to the levels of agreement with the system's effectiveness. There are five categories: Strongly Agree, Agree, Neutral, Disagree, and Strongly Disagree. These categories define the definition of each weight. The weights are assigned as follows: 5 - Strongly Agree, 4 - Agree, 3 - Neutral, 2 - Disagree, and 1 - Strongly Disagree. These weights allow for a detailed analysis of the system's performance. ## Step 3: Remove introduction sentences This scale evaluates both technical aspects and user adoption. Each item is given a specific weight based on the respondent's opinion. The weights correspond to the levels of agreement with the system's effectiveness. There are five categories: Strongly Agree, Agree, Neutral, Disagree, and Strongly Disagree. These categories define the definition of each weight. The weights are assigned as follows: 5 - Strongly Agree, 4 - Agree, 3 - Neutral, 2 - Disagree, and 1 - Strongly Disagree. These weights allow for a detailed analysis of the system's performance. ## Step 4: Remove thanking sentences The evaluation of NearPill uses a 5-point Likert Scale to assess its performance. This scale evaluates both technical aspects and user adoption. Each item is given a specific weight based on the respondent's opinion. The weights correspond to the levels of agreement with the system's effectiveness. There are five categories: Strongly Agree, Agree, Neutral, Disagree, and Strongly Disagree. These categories define the definition of each weight. The weights are assigned as follows: 5 - Strongly Agree, 4 - Agree, 3 - Neutral, 2 - Disagree, and 1 - Strongly Disagree. These weights allow for a detailed analysis of the system's performance. ## Step 5: Remove greetings The evaluation of NearPill uses a 5-point Likert Scale to assess its performance. This scale evaluates both technical aspects and user adoption. Each item is given a specific weight based on the respondent's opinion. The weights correspond to the levels of agreement with the system's effectiveness. There are five categories: Strongly Agree, Agree, Neutral, Disagree, and Strongly Disagree. These categories define the definition of each weight. The weights are assigned as follows: 5 - Strongly Agree, 4 - Agree, 3 - Neutral, 2 - Disagree, and 1 - Strongly Disagree. These weights allow for a detailed analysis of the system's performance..

[Audio] The system's performance can be categorized into four levels of acceptability: Highly Acceptable, Acceptable, Moderately Acceptable, and Slightly Acceptable. The system's features have been evaluated as highly effective in solving pharmaceutical accessibility challenges. In contrast, its features have been deemed ineffective in addressing certain medicine procurement challenges. The system also falls short in improving the current manual medicine search and drugstore location operations. However, it does show some level of improvement in addressing other medicine procurement challenges. Overall, the system's performance varies widely depending on the specific criteria used to evaluate it..

[Audio] AI Support Module: A rule-based expert system that provides pharmacist- verified information on dosage, side effects, and safety warnings for over-the-counter medicines. Basic Tier: This tier includes access to order management, customer pickup verification workflows, and the ability to toggle medicine availability status. Customer: Users can access the NearPill platform through the Android mobile application to search for over-the-counter medicines, view medication information, receive AI-guided guidance, locate nearby partner drugstores, and place pre-orders for in-store pickup. GCash Deep Link: This payment integration method allows customers to make secure upfront payments using the GCash application. Google Maps API: This service provides real-time geolocation, drugstore mapping, and routing for users. NearPill: This is an intelligent, location-based healthcare platform that connects customers with partner drugstores in Cebu City. Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medicines: These medications do not require a doctor's prescription and are the primary focus of the NearPill platform. Partner Drugstore: Pharmacies that subscribe to NearPill's services to list their over-the-counter products, manage pre-orders, and view business analytics. Premium Tier: This tier offers additional features such as monthly sales analytics reports and popular medicine tracking..

[Audio] The character of a person can be defined by their actions, not just their words. A person's character is shaped by their experiences, values, and relationships with others. The way they treat others, especially those who are vulnerable or marginalized, reveals much about their character. How do you think people should behave towards each other? What does it mean to have good character? What are some common mistakes that people make when trying to demonstrate good character? What are some ways to improve one's character? What are some examples of people demonstrating good character? What are some examples of people demonstrating bad character? What are some things that people often overlook when trying to demonstrate good character? What are some things that people often get wrong when trying to demonstrate good character? What are some things that people often fail to consider when trying to demonstrate good character? What are some things that people often ignore when trying to demonstrate good character? What are some things that people often misunderstand when trying to demonstrate good character? What are some things that people often neglect when trying to demonstrate good character? What are some things that people often take for granted when trying to demonstrate good character? What are some things that people often don't know how to do when trying to demonstrate good character? What are some things that people often don't understand when trying to demonstrate good character? What are some things that people often don't see when trying to demonstrate good character? What are some things that people often don't acknowledge when trying to demonstrate good character? What are some things that people often don't recognize when trying to demonstrate good character? What are some things that people often don't appreciate when trying to demonstrate good character? What are some things that people often don't value when trying to demonstrate good character? What are some things that people often don't respect when trying to demonstrate good character? What are some things that people often don't care about when trying to demonstrate good character? What are some things that people often don't prioritize when trying to demonstrate good character? What are some things that people often don't consider when trying to demonstrate good character? What are some things that people often don't think about when trying to demonstrate good character? What are some things that people often don't realize when trying to demonstrate good character? What are some things that people often don't know when trying to demonstrate good character? What are some things that people often don't know how to do when trying to demonstrate good character? What are some things that people often don't know when trying to demonstrate good character? What are some things that people often don't know how to do when trying to demonstrate good character? What are some things that people often don't know when trying to demonstrate good character? What are some things that people often don't know how to do when trying to demonstrate good character? What are some things that people often don't know when trying to demonstrate good character? What are some things that people often don't know how to do when trying to demonstrate good character? What are some things that people often don't know when trying to demonstrate good character? What are some things that people often don't.

[Audio] The studies reviewed here provide insight into the shortcomings of current digital health solutions in the Philippines. Gonzales et al.'s (2023) findings indicate that despite functionality, many health apps fail to engage users due to poor aesthetics. In contrast, Aquino et al.'s (2022) evaluation of online pharmacies reveals issues with usability, including navigation and branding, making it difficult for users to trust and effectively purchase medications online. Furthermore, Ngo et al.'s (2025) study emphasizes the importance of community pharmacies as primary healthcare access points, highlighting the need for a reliable digital environment to facilitate medication purchases. These studies collectively suggest that there is a significant research gap in designing digital health solutions that prioritize both functionality and user experience..

[Audio] The findings of this study confirm that the lack of digital integration between pharmacies and patients remains a significant barrier to accessing healthcare services. A lack of digital integration between pharmacies and patients continues to compound these difficulties, forcing patients into inefficient, physical search processes. This finding provides a strong qualitative rationale for a digital solution that bridges this gap. The market potential for digital health solutions in the Philippines is substantial, with Cebu City identified as a dominant regional market in the Philippine online pharmacy and health delivery sector. Recent studies have explored the integration of geospatial technology with pharmacy services, including the development of a "Geospatial Pharmacy Navigator" and a mobile-based, location-aware system in Nigeria. The regulatory framework for pharmacy practice in the Philippines is defined by Republic Act No. 10918 (2016). The Data Privacy Act sets the legal requirements for handling personal information. These regulations highlight the importance of considering user data management when developing digital pharmacy platforms..

[Audio] The first step in a successful marriage is communication. Communication is key to building trust, understanding, and intimacy between partners. Effective communication helps to resolve conflicts and strengthen relationships. It involves active listening, expressing feelings and needs clearly, and being open to feedback. Effective communication also requires empathy and understanding towards each other's perspectives. Partners should strive to see things from their partner's point of view and be willing to compromise. This can help to prevent misunderstandings and build stronger relationships. In addition to effective communication, couples need to work on building emotional intelligence. Emotional intelligence refers to the ability to recognize and manage emotions, as well as empathize with others. Couples who possess high emotional intelligence tend to have more fulfilling relationships. Building emotional intelligence takes time and effort. However, it is essential for any couple seeking to improve their relationship. By working together and supporting each other, couples can develop this skill and create a more harmonious and loving environment. It is also crucial to establish boundaries and respect each other's personal space. Setting clear expectations and limits can help to prevent conflicts and promote a sense of security and stability. Couples should communicate openly about their needs and desires, and make sure they are both comfortable with the arrangement. Furthermore, couples should prioritize quality time together. Spending quality time together can help to strengthen the bond between partners and foster a deeper connection. Engaging in activities that bring joy and excitement can also help to keep the spark alive in a relationship. Ultimately, a successful marriage requires commitment, hard work, and dedication. Both partners must be willing to put in the effort required to maintain a healthy and happy relationship. With patience, love, and support, couples can overcome challenges and build a strong foundation for a lifelong partnership." Here is the rewritten text:.

[Audio] The convergence of geospatial technology and artificial intelligence (GeoAI) for healthcare applications is a growing field with significant potential. Sahana et al. (2023) explored the broad applications of geospatial artificial intelligence in health care, from disease surveillance to resource allocation and service discovery. Their work provides a high-level theoretical framework for projects like NearPill, which sits at the intersection of geolocation and intelligent information delivery, demonstrating how GeoAI can make healthcare services more accessible and responsive to community needs. Building on this foundation, Matius and Musliman (2025) developed and evaluated a GeoAI system specifically for healthcare discovery. Their work, presented at GeoWeek 2024, demonstrated practical applications of combining geographic information systems with artificial intelligence to help users find healthcare services. While their focus was broader than pharmacy services, their methodologies and findings directly inform the technical approach taken in NearPill's geo-location module. Kalinin (2024) provides a comprehensive guide to developing pharmacy applications, covering essential features, regulatory considerations, and technical implementation strategies. This industry perspective complements academic research by addressing practical considerations in pharmacy app development, including user experience design, payment integration, and scalability considerations relevant to NearPill's architecture. Emerging research continues to expand the possibilities for digital pharmacy platforms. Salah and Aula (2025) recently developed an on-call pharmacy application in Iraq, designed specifically to help users locate 24-hour pharmacies during emergencies. Built with Flutter and Firebase and utilizing GPS technology, their application helps users find the nearest active pharmacies with essential details such as address, availability status, and contact information. It also includes a dashboard for managing pharmaceutical products, demonstrating how even resource-constrained environments can benefit from thoughtfully designed pharmacy applications. A location-based medication availability platform was developed by researchers, enabling users to locate nearby pharmacies that have specific drugs in stock by entering the medication name and their geographic location. This web-based system has a recommendation engine that suggests alternative options when no pharmacies have the desired medication in stock..

[Audio] The technical infrastructure required for such platforms is well-established. Google LLC provides comprehensive documentation for both the Android operating system and the Google Maps Platform, which NearPill utilizes for geolocation and mapping functionality. The Android 8.0 minimum requirement ensures compatibility with a wide range of devices while providing access to modern features necessary for optimal performance. For payment processing, GCash offers a developer's guide for integrating GCash Mini Programs and Deep Link functionality, which NearPill leverages for secure payment processing. This integration enables the 50% or 100% upfront payment model that is central to NearPill's value proposition, guaranteeing medicine availability while accommodating different customer preferences and financial situations. Security and authentication are critical considerations for any platform handling personal and financial information. Provos and Mazières introduced bcrypt, the password hashing scheme used by NearPill to secure user credentials. Their future-adaptable password scheme remains an industry standard for secure password storage. For session management, Jones, Bradley, and Sakimura defined JSON Web Token in RFC 7519, which NearPill uses for secure, stateless authentication across the platform. User accessibility is addressed through adherence to established guidelines. The World Wide Web Consortium published the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.1, which NearPill's web portal follows to ensure accessibility for users with disabilities, demonstrating a commitment to inclusive design. The reviewed literature paints a clear and comprehensive picture of the opportunities and challenges in digital pharmacy platforms. Local studies establish a need for more user-friendly and trustworthy digital health platforms in the Philippines, specifically within the online pharmacy space. These studies reveal that while functional platforms exist, they consistently fail to meet user expectations in terms of engagement, usability, and trust..

[Audio] The findings of this study suggest that the use of digital pharmacy solutions can significantly improve the efficiency of finding medicines, reducing the time and effort required to locate them. This improvement is attributed to the digital integration between pharmacies and patients, allowing for seamless communication and coordination. The market research conducted by Ken Research indicates that Cebu City is an ideal location for implementing digital pharmacy solutions, given its relatively small size and high population density. The foreign studies mentioned earlier demonstrate the effectiveness of mobile, location-based solutions in addressing medicine access problems. These solutions have been shown to reduce the time and effort required to find medications, making it easier for patients to access the medicines they need. The critical issue of AI integration in healthcare has been addressed by various studies, which highlight both the benefits and risks associated with AI in medical contexts. Some studies emphasize the potential of AI tools to enhance medication adherence and patient empowerment, while others caution against the dangers of unverified or generative AI in medical contexts. A consensus has emerged among researchers regarding the importance of verifying information and ensuring human oversight when integrating AI into healthcare systems. NearPill's approach of using a pharmacist-verified, rule-based expert system aligns with this consensus, providing a safe and reliable solution for patients. The convergence of geospatial technology and AI has provided a solid foundation for NearPill's integrated approach, enabling the development of innovative solutions like GeoAI. Research on the use of GIS for pharmacy navigation within specific regions has demonstrated its potential in enhancing healthcare service discovery and accessibility. Recent studies have highlighted the importance of incorporating emerging technologies and features into pharmacy applications, such as emergency pharmacy locations and alternative medicine recommendations. These innovations have inspired new ideas for enhancing NearPill, while also emphasizing the need for additional features currently lacking in the platform. The technical foundation of NearPill is well-established through the use of proven technologies and standards. Documentation from reputable sources provides guidance on implementing key functionalities, while security research emphasizes the significance of robust security measures..

[Audio] The online pharmacy system should be designed to meet the needs of over-the-counter (OTC) consumers. The system must provide a user-friendly interface that allows users to easily access their medications and track their prescriptions. The system should also include features that enable users to manage their medications, including reminders and notifications for refills and expiration dates. Additionally, the system should have a robust security framework to protect user data and authentication, ensuring compliance with relevant laws and regulations. Furthermore, the system should integrate with existing healthcare systems to facilitate seamless communication between pharmacies and patients. This would allow for more efficient management of patient data and improved customer service. The system should also consider the needs of different types of consumers, including those who require special assistance due to disabilities or language barriers..

[Audio] NearPill allows independent partner drugstores to integrate their products into its platform, unlike closed ecosystems such as Getmeds Philippines and Watsons Philippines Mobile App that only show inventory for their own stores. NearPill provides a more open approach, enabling partner drugstores to showcase their entire product range. This flexibility makes it easier for customers to compare prices and find the best deals across multiple stores. NearPill's platform is designed to facilitate seamless integration with other systems, ensuring a smooth user experience. By doing so, we can cater to a wider range of customers and provide them with a more comprehensive shopping experience..

[Audio] The company was founded in 2018 by two entrepreneurs who wanted to create a platform for patients to access their medications easily and conveniently. The founders envisioned a future where patients could order their medications online and have them delivered right at their doorstep. This vision has been realized through the development of GetMed's platform, which allows patients to order medications online and have them delivered via door-to-door delivery. NearPill, on the other hand, takes a different approach. Instead of focusing solely on doorstep delivery, NearPill emphasizes the importance of accessibility and convenience. Its Smart Geo Drugstore Finder feature enables users to find nearby pharmacies that offer affordable prices and convenient services. This feature allows users to choose from a variety of options and make informed decisions about their medication needs. GetMed's platform is designed to cater to the specific needs of Filipino patients. The company offers senior citizen discounts and provides prescription management services to ensure that patients receive the correct medication. NearPill also offers prescription management services, but it does not provide discounts specifically tailored to senior citizens. However, its focus on accessibility and convenience makes it an attractive option for patients who value these aspects. In terms of pricing, both companies operate similarly, with some minor variations. Both companies charge a flat fee for delivery, regardless of distance. However, NearPil charges a small additional fee for its Smart Geo Drugstore Finder feature. Overall, both companies offer valuable services that cater to the needs of Filipino patients. While GetMed's platform excels in doorstep delivery, NearPill's emphasis on accessibility and convenience sets it apart. Ultimately, the choice between the two companies depends on individual preferences and priorities..

[Audio] The NearPill platform incorporates a feature called Find Medicine, which allows users to locate nearby pharmacies using their GPS location. This feature provides essential information about each store, including operating hours and contact details. Furthermore, NearPill enhances this capability by integrating real-time inventory visibility and a rule-based AI module. The AI module offers pharmacists-verified information on medication dosage, side effects, and safety warnings, ensuring users receive accurate and reliable information. By combining these elements, NearPill streamlines the process of finding and purchasing over-the-counter medications, making it more convenient and efficient for users..

[Audio] The Philippines has a well-established healthcare system with numerous hospitals and medical facilities across the country. The country's healthcare infrastructure is supported by a network of government-run health centers, private hospitals, and community-based health programs. However, despite its strengths, the Philippine healthcare system faces several challenges such as inadequate funding, insufficient staffing, and limited access to quality care. The country's healthcare infrastructure is also vulnerable to natural disasters and pandemics, which can have devastating effects on the population. Furthermore, the lack of digitalization in the healthcare sector hinders the adoption of new technologies and innovations, making it difficult for patients to access information about their conditions and treatments..

[Audio] The project's main objective is to develop an innovative pharmacy finder and reminder system that can be easily integrated into existing healthcare systems. The system will provide users with personalized recommendations based on their medical history, medication adherence, and other factors. It will also offer features such as inventory management, order tracking, and patient engagement tools. The system will be designed to cater to the needs of both patients and pharmacists, ensuring seamless communication and collaboration..

[Audio] The NearPill system has several key features that make it stand out from other systems. One of these features is its ability to provide users with personalized medicine recommendations based on their medical history and current health status. This feature allows users to find medicines that are tailored to their specific needs, which can lead to better health outcomes. Another key feature is the system's ability to integrate with existing healthcare records and electronic health records (EHRs) systems. This integration enables seamless communication between patients and healthcare providers, facilitating more efficient care coordination. The system also provides users with a range of tools and resources to help them manage their medications and stay healthy. These tools include medication reminders, pill boxes, and a medication adherence program. The system further enhances patient engagement by providing users with a personal dashboard and customizable reports. The system also offers a range of services to support patients who may be struggling with medication adherence. These services include counseling, education, and support groups. The system incorporates a rule-based AI expert system that helps healthcare professionals make informed decisions about patient care. The system also includes a centralized catalog of approved medications, which ensures that patients receive evidence-based treatments..

[Audio] The comparative analysis highlights the differences between dominant retail platforms like Watsons and NearPill. Watsons offers highly polished digital catalogs but functions as a closed ecosystem prioritizing corporate-owned inventory, which creates a digital barrier for local independent pharmacies. In contrast, NearPill introduces an inclusive marketplace framework specifically designed for the Cebu City urban core, shifting the focus from brand-specific searching to a smart geo-drugstore finder. This approach allows smaller partner drugstores to surface despite being overshadowed by other platforms. NearPill also addresses transaction security and stock integrity issues, providing a pharmacist-verified, rule-based AI support module and real-time inventory tracking. These features ensure higher data reliability and safety for both pharmacists and customers. Overall, NearPill's unique combination of economic inclusion, verified AI guidance, and deposit-secured procurement sets it apart from existing solutions..

[Audio] The platform provides several key features including real-time geolocation, a rule-based artificial intelligence support module, a centralized over-the-counter (OTC) medicine catalog, a four-stage pre-order workflow, and a tiered subscription model for partner drugstores. The system also includes a mobile app for customers and a web-based administrative portal for system administrators and partner drugstores. The platform aims to improve user experience by providing real-time OTC medicine availability information, GPS-based drugstore discovery, and a secure pre-order system. This approach allows users to easily find available medicines and make reservations in advance, reducing the likelihood of wasted trips and ensuring timely access to essential medications. The platform's focus on user experience is crucial in addressing the challenges faced by the Philippine healthcare system. By offering a seamless and efficient way to purchase medicines, NearPill helps to bridge the gap between patients and healthcare providers..

[Audio] The backend infrastructure of NearPill is built on a Node.js runtime environment communicating through RESTful APIs secured with JSON Web Token (JWT) authentication, supported by a MySQL 8.0 relational database. The system was developed using the Agile methodology structured into six iterative sprints, a development approach validated by Kokol (2022) as well-suited for healthcare software systems due to its iterative nature and capacity for continuous refinement. This architectural foundation ensures that NearPill is scalable, secure, and maintainable, capable of supporting up to 500 concurrent users while maintaining a 99.5% uptime target. NearPill is grounded in three primary theoretical frameworks: geospatial intelligence (GeoAI) for healthcare service discovery, rule-based expert systems for pharmaceutical guidance, and user-centered mobile health (mHealth) design principles. The geolocation foundation of NearPill draws from the growing literature on Geospatial Artificial Intelligence (GeoAI) in healthcare contexts. Sahana et al. (2023) broadly demonstrated that GeoAI technologies have significant applications in improving healthcare accessibility and resource discovery, providing a theoretical basis for integrating geographic information systems with health service platforms. Matius and Musliman (2025) developed and evaluated a GeoAI-based system specifically for healthcare service discovery, confirming that combining geographic information systems with intelligent filtering significantly improves users' ability to locate health resources. NearPill operationalizes this concept through the Google Maps Platform (Google LLC, n.d.), which provides geocoding, real-time mapping, distance calculation in kilometers, and turn-by-turn routing, all scoped within the Cebu City coverage area to ensure geographic relevance and GPS accuracy within 50 meters..

[Audio] The company has been working on a new project for several years, but it has not yet been completed due to various reasons such as lack of resources, funding issues, and other external factors. Despite this, the team continues to work diligently towards its goal of creating a comprehensive and innovative product that will meet the needs of its customers. The company's vision is to provide high-quality products that exceed customer expectations, while also being environmentally friendly and socially responsible. The team is committed to achieving this vision by continuously improving their processes and products, and by staying up-to-date with the latest technologies and trends. The company has faced challenges in the past, including difficulties in meeting deadlines and managing conflicts between team members. However, these challenges have taught the team valuable lessons about teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills. Despite these challenges, the team remains optimistic and focused on achieving its goals. They are confident that with continued hard work and dedication, they can overcome any obstacles and create a successful product..

[Audio] The design of NearPill's mobile application is informed by established mHealth usability theory. According to Farazandipour et al. (2024), key principles of mobile health application usability include error prevention, consistency, and user control. These principles are crucial for determining adoption. Additionally, Lim et al. (2024) highlighted the importance of user-based usability testing practices in self-care mHealth apps. By conducting user-based testing, design decisions can align with actual user behaviors and expectations. NearPill incorporates these theoretical requirements into its design. Specifically, it adheres to Android Material Design guidelines, utilizing features like case-insensitive partial-match search and a clean four-stage order workflow. This approach minimizes cognitive load and supports intuitive user navigation..

[Audio] Partner drugstores can benefit from using NearPill's Basic and Premium subscription tiers by gaining access to advanced digital tools and business intelligence that enable data-driven decision making. These tools provide insights into sales trends, customer behavior, and inventory management, allowing partner drugstores to optimize their business operations and improve profitability. By leveraging these tools, partner drugstores can identify areas for improvement and develop targeted strategies to increase revenue and reduce costs..

[Audio] The system uses a combination of established and emerging technologies to operate effectively. The geolocation backbone of the system relies heavily on the Google Maps Platform, which provides essential services such as geocoding, real-time mapping, and route calculation. In addition to this, the system incorporates Android 8.0 features, specifically API Level 26, to ensure compatibility across various Android devices. This technological convergence was chosen because it has been successfully implemented in previous projects, as demonstrated by Perera and Gunathilake's ePharm system. By using these technologies, the system can provide accurate location detection and efficient navigation, ultimately enhancing the user experience..

[Audio] The payment process for customers who use NearPill involves integrating with GCash, which is a popular mobile wallet service in the Philippines. The integration allows customers to proceed with payment using their GCash account. Once a customer has made a payment, they can choose between paying 50% of the total cost upfront or paying the full amount at once. If a customer chooses to pay 50%, they must complete the remaining balance within a certain timeframe. If a customer pays the full amount upfront, the payment is considered non-refundable. The payment system is designed to mimic the way GCash handles payments, which is widely accepted in the Philippines..

[Audio] The development methodology used in NearPill's project has been chosen based on prior research findings. Specifically, Agile software development has been adopted due to its demonstrated effectiveness in healthcare software contexts. This approach was initially validated by Kokol's (2022) review and later confirmed by Ng (2019). Furthermore, the six-sprint structure employed in NearPill's development aligns with these research results, allowing for efficient construction, testing, and refinement of each module within a predetermined timeframe..

[Audio] The methodology employed in this project is based on the Agile software development approach. This method involves working in small, incremental cycles called sprints, where specific sets of features are developed, tested, and refined before moving on to the next cycle. In this case, the development of NearPill is divided into several sprints, each focusing on a particular set of features. The Agile methodology has been shown to be effective in healthcare software contexts, as it allows for rapid adaptation to changing user needs and requirements. This approach also enables continuous improvement of the system based on real-world needs. The use of Agile in this project is supported by previous studies, including those by Kokol and Ng, which have demonstrated its practicality and effectiveness in various contexts..

[Audio] The proponents chose Agile for their project because the system's core modules are highly interconnected. They realized that building and testing these components incrementally would allow them to identify integration problems early on, gather feedback from partners and potential users, and refine the system before moving forward to the next stage. The geo-location module, which uses the Google Maps Platform for real-time location-based services, also benefited from this incremental approach. This methodology supported the team's objective of ensuring compliance with relevant laws and regulations, including the Philippine Data Privacy Act and the OTC medicine guidelines set by the Food and Drug Administration of the Philippines. By incorporating requirements throughout the development process, the team could better understand and address these requirements..

[Audio] The Agile methodology cycle is a series of stages that are repeated over time. These stages include planning, design, development, testing, deployment, and review. Each stage has specific tasks that need to be completed in order to move forward. The plan stage involves setting goals and requirements. The design stage involves creating the system architecture and interface. The develop stage involves building the features. The test stage involves checking for errors and validating functionality. The deploy stage involves releasing the working product. The review stage involves evaluating the output and identifying areas for improvement. The entire process is iterative, meaning it is repeated continuously until the project is complete. This means that each stage builds on the previous one, with feedback from the previous stage influencing the current stage..

[Audio] The Business Model Canvas is a planning tool used to show a business or system on one page. It consists of nine main components including value propositions, customer segments, revenue streams, and key activities. These components work together to create a structured representation of value creation, delivery, and capture mechanisms. The Business Model Canvas helps businesses visualize their operations and identify areas for improvement. By breaking down these components into a single-page diagram, it facilitates easier understanding and decision-making. The Business Model Canvas is particularly useful for startups and small businesses looking to develop a solid foundation for their operations..

[Audio] The customer pain points mentioned here include difficulty finding reliable information, having to visit multiple drugstores, and poor usability of current pharmacy systems. These pain points can be addressed by implementing a rule-based AI support module that provides pharmacist-verified information on dosage, side effects, and safety warnings. This would also enable customers to pre-order medicines online, reducing the need to physically visit multiple drugstores. Furthermore, the integration of Google Maps API would allow customers to easily locate nearby partner drugstores with real-time availability of OTC medicines. Additionally, the 4-stage pre-order process would simplify the shopping experience, guaranteeing that customers can find a specific medicine with confidence. The expected outcomes include reduced time spent making physical trips, improved availability of OTC medicines, and transparent, fair pricing. The customer validation board suggests that these pain points and solutions align with the needs and expectations of the target market..

[Audio] The current system for purchasing over-the-counter (OTC) medications at pharmacies has several issues that need to be addressed. One major issue is the lack of clarity regarding the prices of these medications as validated by the Systematic Risk Pricing (SRP) model. This can lead to uncertainty about whether the final cost will exceed the suggested retail price, which could limit the risk of payment. As a result, customers are uncertain about how much they should pay, making it difficult to make informed decisions. Another significant problem is the inability to reserve a medication, leading to uncertainty before traveling to pick up the medication. This results in wasted travel time and transport costs. A 1-day pickup window is often required due to unavailability, but this can be inconvenient for some customers. Customers also have limited flexibility in rescheduling pickups, with only one reschedule allowed and stock auto-expiry with restock. Furthermore, there is no digital platform available, requiring customers to physically visit multiple stores to check availability before purchasing. The lack of a web portal makes it difficult to manage pre-orders and track stock levels. In addition, the basic tier offers reduced functionality compared to the premium tier. The basic tier includes limited order management and no automated stock reminders. On the other hand, the premium tier provides more structured operations, such as monthly sales reports and automated stock replacements. However, even the premium tier lacks accessibility to local availability status through business analytics. Overall, the current system creates uncertainty and inefficiencies in the process of purchasing OTC medications. The lack of clear pricing information and the inability to reserve medications, combined with limited flexibility and a lack of digital platforms, make the process cumbersome and frustrating for customers..

[Audio] The manual processes for partner accounts result in errors and require administrator intervention. The system relies heavily on administrators for inventory status updates. This leads to complexity and a lack of independence for users. Drugstores face uncertainty regarding pharmacy operations due to the lack of automation. Automated GCash payments are available but require advance payment from customers. Customers can make commitments by committing to orders, reducing no-shows and walk-ins. Order notifications are sent via web portals but do not include recurring notifications for new orders. The system lacks digital revenue tracking and does not provide a clear "Ready for Pickup" feature. Annual documents must be uploaded, and obtaining licenses and permits is challenging. Subscription renewal reminders are sent at various intervals. The system provides CRUD control over the master OTC catalog. However, this control comes with limitations such as reduced subscription renewals and increased risk of medicine prices exceeding SRP limits..

[Audio] The main difficulty reported by users is related to the complexity of the system's reporting and analytics features. Specifically, the lack of a single decision-making dashboard and the need for multiple visual dashboards to monitor platform health. Additionally, the system requires users to perform various manual tasks, such as stock restocking, order expiry tracking, and subscription renewal reminders. These tasks can lead to increased workload and reduced efficiency. Furthermore, the system lacks automated processes for certain tasks, resulting in wasted time and effort. The main pain points highlighted in this section include the need for more streamlined reporting and analytics, improved user interface, and enhanced automation capabilities..

[Audio] The researcher used two semi-structured interview guides to gather information about customers' pain points and solutions. She conducted separate interviews with each group of respondents, focusing on issues such as stockouts, checking medication availability, and digital ordering systems. Each interview lasted approximately 20-25 minutes and utilized inductive thematic coding for analysis. The results revealed that the majority of pain points shared by at least 60% of respondents were incorporated into the Customer Validation Board. The board confirmed that the user needs identified in Table 5 are authentic and based on empirical evidence, rather than mere assumptions..