Prescrizione Farmaceutica in Umbria. Analisi dei Dati Relativi al 2008. (Pharmaceutical Prescription in Umbria (Italy). Analysis of the Data of 2008.)

摘要

Aim of this Report is to analyse the characteristics of drug prescription within the Umbria region in 2008. In comparison with 2007 a 7.6% decrease in the pharmaceutical expenditure was observed in the National Health Service (NHS) (a corresponding 9.0% decrease was observed in Italy). The level of use, in terms of doses of medicines (defined daily doses, DDDs) per 1000 inhabitants die, was slightly higher in Umbria than in the average Italian population (949 vs 926). Age represented the most important determinant of drug prescription, and around 60% of DDDs and expenditure are received by the population older than 65. Drug expenditure paid for by the NHS represented around 75% of the total, whereas out of pocket expenditure was mainly allocated to drugs for minor conditions (13.1%) and to over-the-counter drugs (8.2%). The analysis of prescribing variability among GPs, and the pattern of use for therapeutic categories, make possible to include the Report within audit activities aimed at promoting a more appropriate drug use.