A Framework for Drug Utilization Evaluation in Depression: Insights from Outcomes Research

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 environmen...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Medical care 1999-04, Vol.37 (4), p.AS67-AS76
Main Authors: Edgell, Eric T., Summers, Kent H., Hylan, Timothy R., Ober, Joseph, Bootman, J. Lyle
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Ambulatory Care - standards
Antidepressants
Antidepressive Agents - therapeutic use
Depressive Disorder - drug therapy
Depressive disorders
Dosage
Drug Utilization Review - methods
Economic depressions
Health care costs
Health care outcome assessment
Humans
Managed care
Managed Care Programs - standards
Medications
Outcome Assessment (Health Care) - methods
Prescription drugs
Quality Assurance, Health Care
Serotonin agents
United States
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Summary: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.
ISSN:0025-7079
1537-1948
DOI:10.1097/00005650-199904001-00009