Zusammenfassung
Objective Doctors' prescribing behaviour in 34 psychiatric hospitals in southern Germany was investigated and compared with outpatient prescribing behaviour of doctors licensed to practise within the German health insurance system. Methods On the basis of the AGATE cut-off dates for 20002006, we analysed developments in the drug groups antidepressants, neuroleptics, benzodiazepines, and ...
Zusammenfassung
Objective Doctors' prescribing behaviour in 34 psychiatric hospitals in southern Germany was investigated and compared with outpatient prescribing behaviour of doctors licensed to practise within the German health insurance system. Methods On the basis of the AGATE cut-off dates for 20002006, we analysed developments in the drug groups antidepressants, neuroleptics, benzodiazepines, and antidementia drugs over time. Results The proportion of inpatient prescriptions of antidepressants and antidementia drugs is increasing, whereas neuroleptics and benzodiazepines are undergoing the reverse trend. The proportion of generics in inpatient prescriptions is notably lower than in outpatient prescriptions. Conclusions The differences between inpatient and outpatient prescribing behaviour results in a lack of continuity of care. Health economic incentive systems therefore require standardisation.
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