Drug information services on a subscription basis.

A hospital-based drug information service (DIS) which provides services to five hospitals and a local pharmaceutical association on a subscription basis is described. The two methods of subscription are (1) a monthly fee based on hospital bed size, and (2) a fee per question. The fee based on hospital bed size allows unlimited DIS use and provides a guaranteed income. The fee per question is suitable for private practitioners and those hospitals requiring less frequent DIS use. The pharmaceutical association is billed a flat monthly rate which is paid out of membership dues. The DIS staffing, work load, reference sources, budget and mode of operation are discussed.