Drug Utilization Review (DUR)

A structured, ongoing review of prescribing, dispensing, administering, and consuming medications to ensure their appropriate use, effectiveness, safety, and cost-effectiveness.

 

Therapeutic Duplication

Occurs when a patient is prescribed multiple medications that have similar therapeutic effects, leading to unnecessary redundancy and potential adverse effects.

 

Drug-Drug Interaction

Refers to the effects that occur when two or more drugs interact with each other, altering their effectiveness or producing harmful side effects.

 

Adverse Drug Event (ADE)

Any undesirable occurrence related to medication use, including side effects, allergic reactions, or medication errors, which may necessitate intervention or discontinuation of the drug.

 

Medication Adherence

The extent to which patients follow prescribed medication regimens, including dosage, frequency, and duration, which impacts treatment outcomes and effectiveness.

 

Formulary Management

The process of selecting and managing a list of medications approved for use within a healthcare system, based on their safety, efficacy, and cost-effectiveness.

 

Therapeutic Guidelines

Evidence-based recommendations or protocols for the appropriate use of medications in the treatment of specific medical conditions, guiding healthcare providers in their prescribing practices.

 

Utilization Management

Strategies and interventions employed to optimize the appropriate use of medications, including prior authorization, step therapy, and quantity limits, aimed at improving patient outcomes and controlling costs.

 

Quality Indicators

Measurable parameters used to assess the quality of drug prescribing, dispensing, and administration practices, such as prescribing appropriateness, medication safety, and patient outcomes.

 

Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI)

A systematic approach to enhancing the quality of healthcare services, including DUR processes, through ongoing monitoring, evaluation, and implementation of improvements based on identified areas for enhancement.