Objective-focused approach for appraising the performance of institutional pharmacists.

The development of an objective-focused performance appraisal method applied to hospital pharmacy management is discussed. Objective-based performance appraisal techniques should match the pharmacy department's goals and management style and be a continuous process. Goals should be established and target dates set jointly by the individual and supervisor, emphasizing employee planning and departmental priorities. Standards by which to measure accomplishment of objectives should be set before the evaluation period begins. Appraisals and rewards should be related to achievement of goals. Objective-focused performance appraisals provide a better system for establishing priorities and improve coordination and integration of departmental plans and activities.