Evaluation of drug use indicators in private hospitals

Background: Indicators to assess and improve the quality use of medicines have been published but not specifically evaluated in the private hospital sector. Aim: To assess the applicability of the New South Wales Therapeutic Advisory Group drug use indicators in private hospitals. Method: Standard criteria were used in 13 private hospitals to assess the applicability of the complete set of process indicators plus a selection of the impact and outcome indicators. Results: The majority of the process indicators were useful, however, there was wide variation in the extent to which the activities described by the various indicators had been implemented. Most facilities reported little difficulty in using the impact and outcome indicators that they chose to assess, although some hospitals were not able to apply particular indicators due to staffing factors, types of patients or service capability. Inhibiting factors included the absence of employed medical personnel, inadequate patient numbers and the level of clinical pharmacy service. Conclusion: The New South Wales Therapeutic Advisory Group drug use indicators are applicable in the private hospital sector although there are limitations due to the nature of some private hospitals. Continued use of indicators is recommended and modification of some indicators may be beneficial.