Category: Federal Forum Posters
Purpose: The primary purpose of this project is to evaluate the utilization of direct oral anticoagulants (DOAC) in outpatient veterans at the Tuscaloosa Veterans Affairs Medical Center (TVAMC). Investigators will evaluate the use of preferred and non-preferred agents to trend prescribing habits between fiscal years (FY) 17 and 18. Specifically, the investigators aim to determine if there were increased reports of adverse events, if these agents are being prescribed for FDA approved indications in appropriate populations, how many veterans have been converted from warfarin to a DOAC, and the cost of treating patients with a DOAC versus warfarin.
Methods: This project will assess the anticoagulation program at TVAMC and will be conducted as a retrospective chart review. The charts of patients who were prescribed a direct oral anticoagulant between the dates of October 1, 2016 and September 30, 2018 will be considered for assessment. Veterans who meet inclusion criteria will qualify for chart review by investigators. The following data will be collected and analyzed: age, gender, direct oral anticoagulant agent, whether the veteran was initially prescribed a DOAC or converted from warfarin to a DOAC, indication, dose, preferred versus non-preferred status, first fill date, last fill date, duration of therapy, creatinine clearance, cost, and reported adverse events. This study will provide us with information regarding the appropriate use of DOAC agents used in outpatient veterans at TVAMC to better understand the facilities prescribing practices. Additionally, the study will provide us with financial information to improve selection of these agents to align with pharmacy cost-savings initiatives. The information collected will be further used to guide the facility in making suitable updates to current policies in order to assist practitioners when determining the most appropriate direct oral anticoagulation therapy.
Results: not applicable
Conclusion: not applicable
Kaitlyn Ledbetter
– PGY1 Pharmacy Resident, Tuscaloosa VA Medical Center, Hoover, AL109 Views