Spontaneous Reporting of Adverse Drug Reactions: Assessment of Physician Knowledge and Attitudes Before and after the Intervention of a State Health Agency

Abstract

Physician knowledge and attitudes relating to the spontaneous reporting of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) were investigated using a survey of Rhode Island physicians. The survey confirmed physician underutilization of the FDA reporting system. Respondents (75% response rate) displayed a poor knowledge and understanding of the system. A lack of availability of report forms, lack of certainty the drug caused the reaction, and a previous knowledge of the reaction were identified as the major impediments to reporting. Two years later, after the Rhode Island Department of Health implemented various interventions, physicians were resurveyed. At this time, respondents (69% response rate) displayed an improved knowledge and understanding of the ADR reporting system. Compared with the baseline survey all the major impediments, except for lack of certainty the drug caused the reaction, were dramatically reduced. Concern about legal liability and the time involved in reporting were important to a greater percentage of follow-up respondents than baseline respondents.