Evaluation of quality of auditable pharmaceutical transaction and service (apts) at jimma medical center (jmc), southwest Ethiopia

Abstract

Background: A pharmaceutical service is the corner stone for any meaningful health service. To my knowledge little is known about quality of Auditable Pharmaceutical Transactions and Services (APTS). Thus we aimed to evaluate APTS initiative implemented in Jimma medical center. Objective: To evaluate the quality of auditable pharmaceutical transaction and services at Jimma Medical Center (JMC). Methods: A facility based case study evaluation design was used to evaluate quality of APTS. The evaluation was focused on the process of the service and the approach was formative. Availability, compliance and client satisfaction were evaluated. Both qualitative and quantitative data collection methods were employed. Using structured questionnaire with 298 clients, the sample size was based on single population formula; document review, observational checklist and in-depth interview with four key informants were made. Descriptive analysis method was applied and the output presented by table, the qualitative data were analyzed manually using thematic analysis and results were triangulate with quantitative result and presented in narrative form. The qualitative data were analyzed using SPSS version 20. The indicators judged as per the matrix of analysis and judgment parameter. Result: The quality of APTS in JMC was measured to be 66% which is good as per judgment parameter. Lack of APTS workflow due to shortage of pharmacist and the size of available dispensary rooms. In terms of dimensions availability of resources and compliance to standards were good with 55 % and 66 % respectively. However, client satisfaction on the service found to be 78 %. The proportion of clients satisfied with the quality of the service at the center was 76 %. Conclusion: The overall quality of APTS at JMC was good. Hence program inputs; essential drugs, human resource and structural changes should consist with the guideline. The process of the service measured by compliance; dispensing time, labeling practice, documenting and reporting should be improved. According to judgment parameter correction should be given to achieve the required quality service.