Drug dispensing and information giving in Belo Horizonte, Brazil

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine drug dispensing and associated activity in Belo Horizonte, Brazil. The paper aims to describe factors associated with patient information giving and dispensing time.

Design/methodology/approach

A specific protocol for recording data gathered from observations included: number of dispensing sessions; medical specialties active at the time; medication number and type; dispensing outcome; if information giving was observed and dispensing time. Information giving and time were considered response variables. The chi‐square test and odds‐ratios were used to verify associations between response and explanatory variables.

Findings

In 43 percent (45) consultations, information giving accompanied dispensing and was associated with number of dispensing sessions and medical specialty offered on a particular day. Assistance time was associated with drug type and number, which increased as dispensing sessions decreased.

Research limitations/implications

Seasonal variations in the demand for pharmacy assistance were not investigated and sample size precluded multivariate analyses. Consequently, new studies may deepen understanding about communication between physicians, pharmacy assistants and users.

Practical implications

Pharmacy staff could improve quality and efficiency if two aspects were taken into account: fluctuating workload, and external conditions within which tasks are undertaken.

Originality/value

The paper identifies external conditions that interfere with drug dispensing.

Citation

Souza d'Ávila, L., Ávila Assunção, A., Almeida Belisário, S. and Xavier de Abreu, D.M. (2010), "Drug dispensing and information giving in Belo Horizonte, Brazil", International Journal of Health Care Quality Assurance, Vol. 23 No. 7, pp. 643-657. https://doi.org/10.1108/09526861011071571