Abstract
The effect of a controlled-ordering program (prior authorization by a clinical pharmacist) on the number and cost of drug blood level assays performed at the Truman Medical Center (Kansas City, MO) was studied. Drug assay orders for aminoglycosides, phenobarbital, phenytoin, quinidine, theophylline, salicylate, thiocyanate, and propranolol, laboratory costs, and hospital census were reviewed retrospectively. The programs compared were: (1) control (July to December 1977)--drug blood level assays were ordered at physicians' discretion, and (2) study (January 16, 1978 to January 15, 1979)--all pharmacokinetic assays had to be approved by a pharmacist. A significant (p less than 0.001) reduction in the number of assays performed per month (40%) and in the assay cost per month (44%) occurred during the study period. The program was estimated to save $12,086.61 annually. The policy of requiring pharmacist approval of drug assay orders reduced the improper use and cost of pharmacokinetic monitoring.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
