Over the last few decades, the pharmacy profession has witnessed a substantial evolution accompanied by the developing role of community pharmacists (CPs). Evidence indicates that extending the role of CPs contributes to fostering public health outcomes. However, in many countries, their role is still underused. To extend the role of CPs in Oman, it is crucial to understand their perception and determine the influences. This study determines the willingness of CPs in Oman to extend their role and assess their perception towards barriers. A cross-sectional study was conducted across Oman using an online self-administered survey targeting CPs working in the private sector. Generally, respondents welcomed broadening their professional role. However, among the top perceived barriers were shortage of staff, insufficient training, lack of interconnection between CPs and physicians, and regulation constraints. Different socio-demographic characteristics of respondents showed a noticeable impact on their responses. CPs welcomed extending their role. However, several obstacles were raised that need to be tackled to enable CPs to advance their role.

Consumers are the main hub of the healthcare system, and assessing their perceptions towards the healthcare services is a paramount indicator that helps policymakers shape and develop healthcare services to meet their needs. This study aims to explore consumer perceptions and identify suggestions for improving community pharmacy services (CPS) in Oman. Methodology: online interviews were conducted with 19 community pharmacy consumers to assess their perceptions towards various issues related to CPS in Oman. The data were analyzed using NVivo software. three themes were extracted: (a) consumers’ satisfaction with the CPS, (b) suggestions to improve CPS, and (c) willingness to extend the role of CPs and pay for the extended pharmacy services (EPS). interviewees showed good satisfaction with the CPS in Oman. However, several issues were highlighted that need to be addressed to develop the service. Raising public awareness toward the unique role of CPs in healthcare services, extending the professional role of CPs, and interconnecting them with prescribers would reflect positively on the healthcare system.