[Drug prescription in general practice. A descriptive examination in solo practice in the former county of Roskilde].

INTRODUCTION

General practice is responsible for 75% of drug costs in the Danish primary health care sector, but little information is available on how drugs are prescribed or on the division of labour between GPs and receptionists.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Prospective questionnaire study by patient, GP working single-handedly and/or receptionist of contacts leading to prescribing.

RESULTS

14 practices with 25,111 enrolled citizens completed the study. During the study period GPs/receptionists prescribed drugs to 1,391 patients, 493 (35%) of which were by GPs and 898 (65%) by receptionists on behalf of the GP. 62% of the GPs' and 93% of the receptionists' prescriptions were repeat prescriptions. Plans for duration of treatment in patient records were rare, and there were significant disagreements between patients and GPs about whether follow-up and duration of treatment was planned. Two thirds of patients wanted a less expensive drug, but the price was only discussed in 10% of prescriptions.

DISCUSSION

Receptionists are responsible for a large share of repeat prescriptions and, surprisingly, for new prescriptions as well. Receptionists cannot decide to stop prescribing to a patient or find the least expensive analogue drug. Therefore, the GP should participate in decision-making about prescriptions.