Comparing 4 classification systems for drug-related problems: processes and functions.

Area of Science:

• Pharmaceutical care
• Health informatics
• Drug safety

Background:

• Pharmacists are increasingly involved in counseling patients on drug-related problems (DRPs).
• Various classification systems exist to document these DRPs.
• Understanding the differences between these systems is crucial for effective documentation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore and describe the characteristics of four DRP classification systems.
• To identify similarities and differences in their processes and functions.

Main Methods:

• Four systems (Strand, Granada-II, PCNE v5.0, Apoteket) were analyzed.
• An existing database of community pharmacy DRPs was classified using each system.
• Analysis focused on classification content and methodology, identifying eight common themes.

Main Results:

• Significant differences were found in category selection processes and content across the four systems.
• A key differentiator was the involvement of patients in the classification process.
• System characteristics directly influenced their functional capabilities and aims.

Conclusions:

• Both category structure and workflow are vital for assessing DRP classification system utility.
• The studied systems exhibit diverse functions reflecting different underlying objectives.
• Developing common aims and classification systems is recommended to advance the pharmacist's counseling role.