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The acceptance of process innovations in drug supply – An empirical analysis of patient-individualized blister packaging in stationary nursing facilities

Abstract Purpose of the study Process innovations in drug supply can be an instrument to avoid future cost increases in health services. Besides economic and technical aspects, the success of such process innovations depends on the acceptance of the groups concerned. This paper examines the effect of patient-specific drug supply on involved physicians and nursing staff. Methods Eighty-two caregivers and 15 physicians involved in a project about patient-specific drug blistering were questioned based on a research study accomplished from June 2009 to January 2011. The survey on the consequences for physicians, nursing staff, and patients was carried out by using a structured and anonymous questionnaire. Results The interviewed caregivers as well as the physicians agree in principle on patient-individualized blistering as a useful process innovation in drug supply. In particular, time relief for the nursing staff as well as rising security of supply is positively assessed. The slow adjustment of medication is evaluated to be a disadvantage. Discussion The results of the survey demonstrate that the affected group of professionals does not fundamentally reject process innovations in drug supply. By applying certain conditions, patient-specific drug blistering can possibly lead to an increasing efficiency in pharmaceutical supply.