Personal use of drug samples by physicians and office staff
J. M. Westfall, J. McCabe and R. A. Nicholas
Department of Family Medicine, University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Denver 80220, USA. westfalj@centaur.uhcolorado.edu
CONTEXT: Pharmaceutical samples are commonly used in ambulatory care
settings. There is limited research on their use or impact on health care
providers and patients. OBJECTIVE: To determine the extent of personal use
of drug samples over a 1-year period by physicians and medical office
staff. DESIGN, SUBJECTS, AND SETTING: An anonymous cross-sectional survey
of all physicians, resident physicians, nursing staff, and office staff in
a family practice residency. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE: Quantity of drug samples
taken for personal or family use. RESULTS: Of 55 surveys issued, 53 (96%)
were returned. A total of 230 separate drug samples were reported taken in
amounts ranging from 1 dose to greater than 1 month's supply. Two
respondents reported no use of drug samples, while 4 respondents reported
taking more than 10 different samples. CONCLUSION: Drug samples are
commonly taken by physicians and office staff for personal and family use.
The ethical implications of this practice warrant further discussion.
