ASHP national survey of pharmaceutical services in federal hospitals--1993

The results of a national mail survey of pharmaceutical services in federal hospitals conducted by ASHP from May to July 1993 are reported. Mailing lists were compiled of all Air Force, Army, Navy, Public Health Service, and Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) hospitals, as well as some federal prison hospitals. Questionnaires were mailed to each chief of pharmacy. The adjusted gross population size was 326. The net response rate was 76%. Complete unit dose drug distribution was offered by 85% of respondents, and 83% offered complete, comprehensive i.v. admixture programs. About half of the pharmacies provided decentralized services. Over 99% provided services to ambulatory care patients. A computerized pharmacy system was present in 99% of the departments. More than 95% of hospitals participated in adverse drug reaction, medication error management, and drug-use-evaluation programs. A total of 93% provided drug therapy monitoring, and 89% provided patient education. About 70% provided written documentation of pharmacist interventions in the medical records, and 57% participated in drug research. A total of 42% provided pharmacist-managed drug clinics, 41% participated in drug management of medical emergencies, 30% provided written medication histories, and 30% provided drug therapy management planning. Pharmacokinetic consultations were provided by 64% of departments. About 90% had a well-controlled formulary system and prescribing restrictions. Therapeutic interchange was practiced by 64%. Diversified pharmaceutical services included telephone or mail-in refill services (80%), mail-out pharmaceutical services (58%), and services to long-term-care facilities (49%). A total of 70% of the hospitals were affiliated with a pharmacy school. The first ASHP national survey of pharmaceutical services in federal hospitals showed that comprehensive distributive and clinical services were offered by most of the facilities.