Drug Utilization Research in a Tertiary Specialty Hospital: Medication Use Pattern, Dispensing Performance and Facility Evaluation

Abstract

Drug utilization practices play an important role in ensuring safe, rational, and cost-effective patient care, especially in tertiary specialty hospitals where prescription volume and complexity are high. However, limited local evaluation of prescribing and dispensing practices may hinder improvements in pharmaceutical services. This study aimed to evaluate drug utilization practices in a tertiary specialty hospital by examining prescribing patterns, dispensing performance, and facility structure using the World Health Organization (WHO) drug use indicators. A descriptive-analytical cross-sectional design was used. Data were collected from licensed outpatient pharmacists using three validated questionnaires that assessed medication-use practices, pharmacists’ self-evaluations of dispensing activities, and the adequacy of pharmacy facilities. A retrospective review of outpatient prescriptions was also conducted over a one-and-a-half-month period. Data were summarized using descriptive analysis and compared across pharmacist tenure and department assignment. Results showed that most prescriptions originated in the Outpatient Department and primarily involved generic oral medications, supporting rational, cost-effective prescribing. Pharmacists generally rated their dispensing practices as highly competent, with early-career pharmacists and those with advanced degrees reporting higher engagement in counseling, communication, and error reporting. In contrast, pharmacists with longer tenure reported lower involvement in some communication practices. Facility structure and staffing were viewed positively, although perceptions differed by years of experience. The review of prescriptions also identified non-Philippine National Formulary drugs and documentation gaps, suggesting the need for stronger formulary compliance and better monitoring systems. Overall, the findings show encouraging practices in rational drug use but reveal areas that require improvement in documentation, communication, and adherence to formulary guidelines. Strengthening electronic prescribing, conducting regular audits, providing professional training, and integrating information systems may help improve safe, efficient, and patient-centered pharmaceutical care.