Implementation Evaluation of auditable Pharmaceutical transaction and service in outpatient pharmacies in selected public hospitals in Jimma zone, Oromia, Ethiopia

Abstract

Background: Auditable pharmaceutical transactions and services have been implemented in Ethiopia to build accountable, transparent, and responsible pharmacy practice and used to improve pharmaceutical transaction and management. The program has been implemented in 321(7.8%) of health facilities in Ethiopia and only 7(0.05%) of health facility implemented the program in Jimma zone. However, little is known about the level of implementation, and its intermediate outcomes. Objective: This study was to assess the implementation status of auditable pharmaceuticals transaction and service intervention in selected public hospitals in Jimma Zone, Oromia, Ethiopia. Methods: A facility based case study evaluation design was used to evaluate the program. The evaluation was focused on the process of the program and the approach was formative. Availability, compliance and client satisfaction were evaluated. Concurrently both qualitative and quantitative methods were employed. Using interview administered questionnaires with 326 clients, the sample size was based on single population formula; 20 document review, and 12 key informant interviews were made. Descriptive analysis method was applied and the qualitative data were analyzed manually using thematic analysis and presented in narrative form. The qualitative data were analyzed using SPSS version 23. The indicators judged as per the matrix of analysis and judgment parameter. Result: The availability of resource (trained person, basic equipment and tools, infra-structure and essential medicine) was measured to be 79.3% which is good as per judgment parameter; but lack of trained professionals. Compliance of service as per guideline was measured to be 69.3%, which is fair; but supportive supervisions, and auditing of the pharmaceuticals were the major gaps. However, client satisfaction on the pharmacy service found to be 81.5 % which is good as per judgment. About 58.6% of clients interviewed after getting pharmacy service were satisfied. Those able to read and write (AOR = 2.64) and those have adequate knowledge, AOR = 8.13) were significantly associated with pharmacy service satisfaction.Conclusion and recommendation: The overall implementation of the program was fair (73.3%). Trained human resource, auditing and supportive supervision should be done according to guideline.