A Framework for Drug Utilization Evaluation in Depression:... : Medical Care (original) (raw)

Global Health Outcomes Research And Customer Applications

Insights From Outcomes Research

Edgell, Eric T. PharmD, MS*; Summers, Kent H. PhD*; Hylan, Timothy R. PhD*; Ober, Joseph PharmD, BCPS†; Bootman, J. Lyle PhD‡

*From the Senior Health Economics Associate, Global Health Economics Research, Eli Lilly and Company, Indianapolis, Indiana.

†From the Disease Management Programs, Advance Paradigm, Inc., Hunt Valley, Maryland.

‡From the College of Pharmacy, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona.

This paper was presented at the 1997 Eli Lilly and Company, Global Health Economics, Disease Prevention and Management Conference held October 19-23, 1997 in Scottsdale, Arizona.

Address correspondence to: Kent H. Summers, PhD, Global Health Economics Research, Eli Lilly and Company, Lilly Corporate Center, Indianapolis, IN 46285. E-mail: [email protected].

Abstract

Background.

Drug utilization evaluation (DUE) offers the prospect of improving the quality of care in depression by focusing on drug-related problems (DRPs). Outcomes research in depression can provide a basis on which to address difficulties in implementing DUE programs in the outpatient environment of managed care.

Objective.

The purpose of this paper is to facilitate the development of a drug utilization evaluation program for depressed patients receiving care in an outpatient environment.

Methods.

The literature was reviewed in the area of depression treatment, drug-related problems, and current outcomes research. This information was synthesized into a framework with potential DUE criteria.

Conclusion.

The quality of care for depression can be improved if these efforts are focused on solving DRPs. Outcomes research findings may be used as the basis for developing DUE criteria and as a first step in selecting and targeting interventions.