Formulation of economic and financial performance assessment indicators for pharmacy

Abstract

Abstract: Introduction: In the last decade the role of pharmacy as a developing profession expanded and this has created the necessity for economic performance. Use of economic and financial indicators in pharmacies, provide the possibility of production and evaluate the financial information and identify strengths and weaknesses. Aim: The aim of this study was to identify and formulation the key indicators for assessing the economic and financial performance of the pharmacies in Iran. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted in five stages. First, the used indicators of the literature were collected by a systematic review. In the second stage, through focus group discussions with experts, the economic indicators for evaluating the pharmacies were identified. In the third stage an initial questionnaire was designed and in the fourth stage, indicators via Delphi technique were prioritized. In the fifth stage, the indicators were selected by a panel of experts and evaluation in two elected pharmacies. Results: A total of first and second satages, 104 indicators were identified for evaluating the economic and financial performance of the pharmacy. By conducting of Delphi technique in two rounds, 57 indicators remained. After consideration with experts and evaluation the indicators in two selective pharmacies, finally, 49 indicators were chosen. The Indicators were divided into two financial and economic groups and within each group, based on Donabedian model were categorized into three scopes. Conclusion: Health system managers and analyst and pharmacies authorities by using the information derived from this study, in addition to increase the efficiency of pharmacies in use of limited health resources can use them as a basis for comparison over the time, and to design the corrective action. Key words: Indicator, financial performance, economic performance, pharmacy, Delphi technique