The objective of this study was to develop a quality assurance program for the drug information service using outcome measurements. Criteria of timeliness, accuracy, objectivity, completeness, and use of the information in patient care were measured by a questionnaire sent to users of the service. A response rate of 86 percent showed that the criteria were met in 92, 97, 92, 75, and 69 percent of cases, respectively. The autoreputational approach was utilized in altering procedures to attempt to meet the previously set standards. It was concluded that measuring outcome is a useful method for assuring the quality of a drug information service.
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SchneiweissF. Feedback on user satisfaction with computerized literature searches (letter).Am J Hosp Pharm1982; 39: 572–3.
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GrethPA, TesterWW, BlackHJ. Decentralized pharmacy operations utilizing the unit dose concept II: drug information services and utilization in a decentralized pharmacy substation.Am J Hosp Pharm1965; 22: 558–63.
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BellJE, BouchardVE, SouthJC. A new approach to delivering drug information to the physician through a pharmacy consultation program part III: evaluation methodology.Am J Hosp Pharm1973; 30: 220–5.
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CardoniAA, ThompsonTJ. Impact of drug information services on patient care.Am J Hosp Pharm1978; 35: 1233–7.
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American Society of Hospital Pharmacists.Model quality assurance program for hospital pharmacies. Revised edition. Washington, DC,1980.
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LamninM. Quality assurance in hospital pharmacy: strategies and techniques.Rockville, MD: Aspen Systems Corporation, 1983.
