Preventing drug-related morbidity - the development of quality indicators

Authors: Morris, C. J.; Cantrill, J. A.

Source: Journal of Clinical Pharmacy & Therapeutics, Volume 28, Number 4, August 2003 , pp. 295-305(11)

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Abstract:

Summary Objective:

To describe the process that has been undertaken to (i) validate further UK indicators for preventable drug-related morbidity (PDRM) generated by a previous study and (ii) develop additional new indicators derived from UK clinical practice. Design:

A two-round Delphi questionnaire survey. Setting:

A UK study based in primary care. Participants:

A purposively selected sample of primary care pharmacists (n = 9) and general practitioners (n = 8). Outcome measures:

The establishment of consensus among the panel as to whether an indicator represented a PDRM. Results:

The pre-defined level of consensus was achieved for 24 indicators (59%; 24 of 41). Conclusions:

We have identified that although mechanisms exist for identifying `the outcome' component of PDRM indicators, identifying the `pattern of care' that is needed to prevent their occurrence is far more challenging. Nonetheless, we have taken considerable steps along the path of validating such indicators. Future operationalization in a general practice setting should help to facilitate improvements in medicine management in primary care and ultimately benefit patients.

Keywords: adverse drug events; prescribing; preventable drug-related morbidity; primary care; quality indicators

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1046/j.1365-2710.2003.00496.x

Affiliations: 1: School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester, UK

Publication date: 2003-08-01