Evaluation of the Pilot Project on “Drug-Dispensing Services in Pharmacies to Reduce Overcrowding In Mahasarakham Hospital, Mahasarakham Province”

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the pilot project on “Drug-dispensing services in pharmacies to reduce the overcrowding in Mahasarakham Hospital, Mahasarakham Province”. Methods: This study was project evaluation research by reviewing related literature, in-depth interview with 16 key informants, and interview with 21 outpatients of Mahasarakham hospital including 11 patients in the project and 10 patients not participating in the project. This study was conducted during October 2019 to September 2020. Results: Mahasarakham hospital implemented model 1 of service provision with medications filled by the hospital and delivered to pharmacies in the project in order to dispense to patients at service point. A total of 13 pharmacies and 225 patients participated in the project. Most patients were those with asthma (53.77%), diabetes (27.11%), and benign prostate hyperplasia (14.22%). Patients in the project were highly satisfied with services from the pharmacies especially in terms of convenience and waiting time. Both of those in the project and those not being in the project were dissatisfied in not receiving useful information and low enthusiasm in services provision. A slight reduction of congestion was observed with 1.07% of all 21,000 outpatients of Mahasarakham hospital participating in the project. The patients in the project spent less travel time and expenses compared to those not being in the project. Conclusion: The project slightly reduced the congestion in the hospital. Most patients were highly satisfied with the services provided. In order to ensure the effectiveness of the project, it is crucial to organize effective supporting system including public relations and coverage expansion to cover all groups of patients.