The survey of physicians satisfaction of implementing “audit and feedback” and “printed educational materials” interventions for rational drug prescribing in cities of Tehran and Mashhad, Iran

Abstract

Background: Many countries including Iran have used “audit and feedback” (A&F) and “printed educational materials” (PEMs) interventions to improve physicians’ drug prescribing behavior. In addition, several trials have shown low to moderate effects of the two interventions. Nevertheless, few studies have assessed physicians’ satisfactions with A&F or PEM interventions. This is a cross-sectional survey which was carried out in Tehran and Mashhad Cities, Iran, in 2014. Methods: 181 general physicians, pediatricians and infectious disease specialists working in outpatient practices completed the questionnaire covering demographic characteristics, satisfaction with the A&F and PEM, and the perceived effectiveness of the interventions in improving physicians’ behavior. Results: Almost all physicians who reported receiving A&F or PEM reports, indicated reading them. In addition, 84% and 86% of the physicians agreed with the efficiency of feedback reports and PEM, respectively. Conclusion: Findings showed that general physicians study A&F reports more carefully or frequently than the specialists. Physicians believed that revising the feedback report’s format and content could increase its effectiveness.

Keywords

• Drug therapy
• Educational technology
• Physicians
• Iran