Utilizing IT-supported precision management measures to enhance rational drug use in primary healthcare institutions: a study of an internet-based regional prescription audit center

Abstract This study aimed to elevate the qualified rate (QR) of prescriptions and improve rational drug use while also minimizing adverse drug events in primary healthcare institutions within a designated region through information technology (IT)-supported precision management. In this study, a retrospective analysis was performed to evaluate the changes in the QR and adverse event rate associated with 5,923,764 prescriptions across 13 community health service centers in Tianhe District, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, before and after the implementation of IT support. Detailed records and analyses were conducted on specific psycho-narcotic drugs, the appropriate use of antimicrobial prescriptions, and the incidence of adverse events following the introduction of IT support. Following the IT-supported precision management, 13 community health service centers witnessed a notable surge in the average QR of prescriptions, rising from 91.90% to 96.97% from 2018 to 2021 ( P < 0.05). Among this, the average QR of psychotropic and anesthetic drugs, as well as antibiotics prescriptions at the same center showed a significant increase, while the average utilization rate of antibiotics demonstrated a marked decrease. Furthermore, the average incidence rate of adverse events caused by high-alert drugs dwindled from 225 cases/year in 2020 to 109 cases/year in 2021. The integration of a regional remote prescription audit center for IT-supported precision management of drug use in primary healthcare institutions has improved prescription quality and diminished the incidence rate of adverse drug events, indicating a significant contribution to the distribution of high-quality pharmacy resources of Grade IIIA hospitals to primary healthcare institutions. This initiative also improves rational drug use, marking a pioneering innovation in pharmacy practice that deserves commendation.