Can we use the pharmacy data to estimate the prevalence of chronic conditions? a comparison of multiple data sources.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The estimate of the prevalence of the most common chronic conditions (CCs) is calculated using direct methods such as prevalence surveys but also indirect methods using health administrative databases.The aim of this study is to provide estimates prevalence of CCs in Lazio region of Italy (including Rome), using the drug prescription's database and to compare these estimates with those obtained using other health administrative databases.

Methods

Prevalence of CCs was estimated using pharmacy data (PD) using the Anathomical Therapeutic Chemical Classification System (ATC).Prevalences estimate were compared with those estimated by hospital information system (HIS) using list of ICD9-CM diagnosis coding, registry of exempt patients from health care cost for patholog

SUBMITTER: Chini F 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3223740 | biostudies-literature | 2011 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature