Peer Comparison Feedback to Achieve Rational and Economical Drug Therapy in General Practice: A Controlled Intervention Study

Abstract

The aim of the study was to describe and evaluate a controlled intervention to achieve more rational and economical drug therapy in general practice. The strategy was based on peer comparison feedback and encouragement of local peer group discussions. Seven districts comprising 53, and 6 districts comprising 55 eligible practices constituted the intervention and control groups respectively. The process was evaluated by questionnaires to the GPs. 88% found the feedback diagrams relevant, and 74% expressed a wish for information about prescribing of particular drugs. The outcome evaluation was based on computerized registration of prescriptions. During the study period of 6 months the median costs per prescription increased significantly in the control group, whereas there was no statistically significant change in the intervention group. There were no significant effects on the prescribed amounts.

Key Words:

• general practice
• prescriptions
• quality assurance
• cost containment
• intervention