Pharmacist-operated drug information centers in the United States--1986.

Pharmacist-operated drug information centers (DICs) were surveyed early in 1986 to obtain current information concerning the status, availability, and scope of their services. Questionnaires were sent to 191 institutions believed to be active in disseminating drug information; 127 responses were usable. Descriptive information on the respondents is tabulated, and a comprehensive directory of pharmacist-operated DICs is provided. Significant changes have occurred in the affiliations of DICs since previous surveys, and sources of DIC funding seem to be related to these affiliations. Many DICs appear to have the potential to answer more questions than they actually answer. Since few of them are self-sustaining, DICs should attempt to document how their activities affect prescribing practices and, hence, overall hospital finances.