       Document 1919
 DOCN  M94A1919
 TI    Development of algorithms for distribution and management of therapeutic
       schemes for AIDS patients in Brazil--1993.
 DT    9412
 AU    Del Bianco R; Ninomya T; Rodrigues L; Sereno A; Ministry of Health,
       Brasilla, Brazil.
 SO    Int Conf AIDS. 1994 Aug 7-12;10(1):421 (abstract no. PD0294). Unique
       Identifier : AIDSLINE ICA10/94370656
 AB    OBJECTIVES: To discuss the use of specific follow-up instruments in the
       evaluation and control of AIDS medication distribution. METHODS: In
       1993, the National AIDS program distributed nationally (to all 27
       States) recommendations for AIDS diagnosis and treatment. The manual
       consists of standardized guidelines for adequate use of antiretroviral
       drugs and specific schemes for treatment of opportunistic infections.
       The guidebook also enables the States to determine and inform to the PNC
       DST/AIDS the annual demand and available stocks of each medication.
       RESULTS: We utilized the guidelines to manage therapeutic regimens and
       distribution of highly expensive drugs as: AZT, ddl, Gancyclovir and
       Pentamidine. The following problems were identified in the guidelines:
       gaps in recommendation(individuals managed differently for no apparent
       reason) and unnecessary complexity (opportunities to simplify the
       guideline without altering recommendations). After the implementation of
       the guidebook all states began to inform monthly the use, validity and
       stock of each controlled drug. Medications distribution depended
       basically on the feedback information. The AZT actual national cost in
       1993 was U$ 6 million, 80% of the estimated initially. CONCLUSION: The
       implementation of specific algorithms facilitates contact with the
       States and permits continuous flow of drugs supplies. It allows the PNC
       DST/AIDS to optimize the drug distribution with reduction of losses and
       costs.
 DE    Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome/*DRUG THERAPY/ECONOMICS  Algorithms
       Antiviral Agents/ECONOMICS/*THERAPEUTIC USE  Brazil  Costs and Cost
       Analysis  *Follow-Up Studies  Guidelines  Health Services/*ORGANIZATION
       & ADMIN  Human  Manuals  Zidovudine/ECONOMICS/THERAPEUTIC USE  MEETING
       ABSTRACT

       SOURCE: National Library of Medicine.  NOTICE: This material may be
       protected by Copyright Law (Title 17, U.S.Code).

