Why do physicians prescribe new antidiabetic drugs? A qualitative study in the Greek healthcare setting

Abstract

ObjectivesUnderstanding the process of new drug adoption can inform the development of policies to promote appropriate diffusion of new drugs that result in improved outcomes and are cost-effective. The present study aims to explore factors influencing adoption of new antidiabetic drugs for T2DM in the Greek setting. MethodsThe study employs a qualitative descriptive approach. Semi-structured interviews were performed with physicians involved in management of T2DM in adults. Eligible participants were identified using generic purposive sampling. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and analyzed using framework analysis. Rogers’ Diffusion of Innovations theory informed the development of the interview guide and the coding scheme. Results10 physicians were interviewed. The mean interview duration was 44 min. Three main themes were derived: (1) Factors influencing prescribing of new medicines for T2DM, (2) Perceptions on pharmaceutical innovation, (3) Use of information sources during the new drug adoption process. The attributes of the new drug, patient-related factors, external influences and prescriber needs and characteristics affected the adoption decision. Physicians reported utilizing information from a variety of sources in the process of adoption. ConclusionsThe present study brought forward the importance of relative advantage and compatibility in the adoption of new antidiabetic agents and also highlighted that adoption is a process during which new drug attributes are continuously re-evaluated.