Pharmacy records are utilized in various epidemiological studies and public health surveillance activities. Some of their primary uses include:
Drug Utilization Studies: These studies analyze patterns of drug use in populations to identify trends, inappropriate use, and areas for improvement. Monitoring Adverse Drug Reactions: By linking pharmacy records with healthcare databases, epidemiologists can identify and monitor adverse drug reactions and improve patient safety. Assessing Medication Adherence: Pharmacy records help in understanding whether patients are following their prescribed medication regimens, which is crucial for managing chronic diseases. Cost-Effectiveness Analysis: Evaluating the economic impact of drug therapies by comparing costs and health outcomes can be done using pharmacy records.
