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Drug use patterns at a Kenyan referral hospital: A cross-sectional study using WHO core indicators
Robi Cynthia Chacha1, Ermias Mergia Terefe1
1Department of Pharmacology, Pharmacognosy and Pharmaceutical Chemistry, School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, United States International University-Africa, Nairobi, Kenya.
Plos One
|July 29, 2026
Summary
Suboptimal medicine use persists globally, especially in low-income countries. This study found gaps in prescribing and patient care at Thika Level 5 Hospital, Kenya, despite good facility readiness.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacoeconomics
- Global Health
- Health Services Research
Background:
- Suboptimal medicine use is a significant global health issue, increasing costs and antimicrobial resistance, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
- This study addresses the challenge by evaluating drug use patterns in Kenya.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess drug use patterns at Thika Level 5 Hospital, Kenya.
- To identify areas for improvement in medicine use practices using World Health Organization (WHO) core drug use indicators.
Main Methods:
- A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted in the outpatient department.
- Data collected from 600 prescriptions, 100 patient encounters, and facility assessments using WHO/INRUD tools.
- Descriptive and inferential analyses were performed and compared with WHO standards.
Main Results:
- Prescribing indicators showed a high mean of 3.18 drugs per prescription and 58.7% antibiotic use.
- Patient-care indicators revealed short consultation times (4.26 min) and poor medication knowledge (44.0%).
- Facility indicators were strong, with 100% availability of essential medicines and guidelines.
Conclusions:
- Despite excellent facility readiness, significant gaps exist in prescribing and patient-care practices.
- Interventions are needed for antimicrobial stewardship, generic prescribing, dispensing, and patient counseling.
- Improving these areas can enhance medicine use practices and patient outcomes.
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