Problems in assessing rationality of drug utilization in less developed countries

Less developed countries are facing various difficulties in assessing rationality of drug utilization. The problems are essentially related to four major areas; (a) Policies, administration and management, (b) Practice and services, (c) Education and training, (d) Monitoring and research. Drug policies have often failed to recognise the importance of identifying the levels of rationality of the various components of drug utilization. Consequently, neither the need nor the mechanisms to assess rationality were considered. Drug utilization data and records have been poorly developed and maintained, e.g. mal-managed, inaccurate, and without continuity with regard to collection, monitoring and evaluation. Provision and supply of drugs were handled by an unnecessary multiplicity of departments and state offices, none of which keeping complete records and/or information in relation to needs of drugs nor other health care requirements. Deficiencies and shortcomings associated with medical/pharmaceutical practice, services, education and training have as well contributed significantly to the failure of the less developed countries to assess and promote rationality of drug utilization.