Effectiveness of Shelf-Life Extension Program as a Contributor to Central Drug Store Stockpiles Maintenance: Ministry of Health Experience in the Gaza Strip During Crisis

Abstract

Background: The Shelf-Life Extension Program (SLEP) was one of the most effective alternative plans, which could respond appropriately to crises of drug shortage and near expired drugs. Aim of the study: The purpose of this research was to evaluate the SLEP in the MOH in the GS as a contributor to central drug store stockpile maintenance during crises from the point of view of the GDP pharmacists. Methods: The study used quantitative descriptive and qualitative approaches. The study sample is a set of all the key members in the DCD and CDS working in the SLEP consisting of 21 persons. Data collection: The researcher developed his tool to evaluate the SLEP. The questionnaire was validated by a group of experts and a pilot study was implemented on 5 participants. Cronbach alpha coefficient was 0.938 for the GDP questionnaire. Results: The results of the findings from the GDP's questionnaire showed that the highest domain was " Extended Drug Labeling" with a weighted mean of 85.7%, followed by "Follow up the stock quantity for items that extended in the CDS" with a weighted mean 83.2%, and the weakest domain was "The impact of the SLEP on drug shortages in the MOH" with weighted mean 80.2%. There are statistically significant gender differences. Conclusions and recommendations: The study concluded a high-level evaluation of the effectiveness of the SLEP by the GDP workers with an average score of 82.4, The study recommended that the GDP should establish regulations about the SLEP for expired drug handling for all health workers.