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Updated: May 28, 2026
07:32
Novel Apparatus and Method for Drug Reinforcement
Published on: August 20, 2010
An innovative approach to pharmacy management in a state correctional system
Rita M Marcoux1, Jason C Simeone, Matthew Colavita
1Healthcare Utilization Management Center, College of Pharmacy, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, USA.
Summary
A collaboration between the University of Rhode Island College of Pharmacy and the Rhode Island Department of Corrections (RIDOC) significantly reduced pharmaceutical costs. This program saved nearly $5 million through improved medication management and waste reduction strategies.
Area of Science:
- Health Services Research
- Pharmacy Administration
- Correctional Healthcare
Background:
- Correctional facilities face challenges in medication distribution and pharmacy management.
- Integrating medical care and optimizing medication use are critical in these settings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate a collaborative pharmacy management program implemented in the Rhode Island Department of Corrections (RIDOC) since 2003.
- To assess the program's impact on medical care integration, medication utilization, and pharmaceutical costs.
Main Methods:
- Implementation of staff education, waste-reduction strategies, treatment protocols, and a responsive formulary system.
- Analysis of pharmaceutical expenditures from 2003 to 2009, comparing RIDOC's growth rate to national pharmaceutical inflation.
Main Results:
- RIDOC pharmaceutical expenditures increased by approximately 1.5% per inmate per year, significantly lower than the annual pharmaceutical inflation rate.
- Projected and actual drug spending analyses revealed savings of nearly $5 million for RIDOC during the study period.
Conclusions:
- The collaborative pharmacy management program successfully addressed pharmaceutical care issues within RIDOC.
- The initiative demonstrated significant cost savings and provided valuable educational experiences for doctor of pharmacy students.
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