Quality improvement in the use of medications through a drug use evaluation service.

Continuous quality improvement methods have the potential to improve processes that cross several disciplines. The medication system is one in which coordination of activities between physicians, pharmacists, and nurses is essential for optimal therapy to occur. DUE services can play an important role in helping to ensure that patients receive high-quality pharmaceutical care. It is necessary for pharmacy managers to review the structure, goals, and outcomes of their DUE programs to ensure that they are consistent with a philosophy of continuous improvement in the quality of drug therapy.