Prescribing costs when computers are used to issue all prescriptions

Area of Science:

• Health Informatics
• Pharmacoeconomics
• General Practice Management

Background:

• Prescribing costs represent a significant component of healthcare expenditure.
• Previous studies have explored the impact of technology on healthcare efficiency with varying results.
• The integration of computerised systems in general practice was evolving during the study period.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the economic impact of using a computerised system for prescription issuance.
• To assess the effect of a customised, computerised drug formulary on prescribing costs.
• To compare prescribing costs before and after the implementation of computerised systems.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of prescribing cost data from 1978-1987.
• Utilisation of data from the Scottish Prescription Pricing Bureau.
• Comparison of personal prescribing costs with practice partners, Lothian Health Board, and Scotland combined.

Main Results:

• Personal prescribing costs remained static for a year after initial computerisation for repeat prescriptions.
• A steady and sustained fall in personal prescribing costs was observed after implementing a system for all prescriptions.
• Personal prescribing costs were 21.5% lower in 1986 and 29.5% lower in 1987 compared to practice partners.

Conclusions:

• Computerised prescription issuance, especially for all prescriptions, leads to reduced healthcare costs.
• The use of a personal, computerised drug formulary alongside electronic prescribing enhances cost-effectiveness.
• Technological integration in prescribing practices offers a viable strategy for cost containment in healthcare.