Publication: Evaluation of a successful intervention for sustainability and effects in post research phase
Date
2006
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Kathmandu University
Abstract
Introduction: Promoting appropriate use of drugs is an essential element in achieving quality of health and medical
cares for patients and the community, and also to minimize financial burden.
Objective: The objective of this paper is to assess the successful intervention for sustainability and effects in post
research phase. To address these problems, a variety of educational, managerial and regulatory strategies to improve
prescribing have been tried in Nepal. When training is combined with a managerial intervention i.e. peer-group
discussion, it results into improved changes in prescribing practices of paramedics in several practices.
Methodology: A prospective, three-way design study consisting of small group training, small group training
followed by peer-group discussion and control was conducted in three regions of Nepal including one hill and two
terai (plains) districts from each region. The study included all health post from the sampled districts, making 80
health posts the study population.
Results: The study revealed the effectiveness of the peer-group discussion approach in improving the prescribing
practices. An assessment to identify the sustainability of the strategy and its effect within the district healthcare
system after the completion of the research phase was undertaken. The study found that peer-group discussion was
discontinued in all targeted districts and the improved practices were not sustained after the completion of the
research. Various reasons have been found for not continuing the effective intervention.
Key words: Drug use, INRUD, Nepal, Intervention, Sustainability, Peer-group discussion, Self-assessment