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영어

OBJECTIVES To investigate government programs or policies that aim to manage and monitor drug use in patients in foreign countries. METHODS We conducted a literature review by searching electronic documents through domestic literature databases, various search engines, and official websites of public organizations or government-related agencies in charge of programs or policies. The contents of investigation included the purpose of the program, how to operate, eligible patients or drug class, action by physicians or pharmacists, and rewards for participation. RESULTS We identified national or regional programs for rational and safe use of drug in patients in 6 countries. The UK implemented ‘Medical Use Review’ and ‘New Medicine Service’ as a pharmacist’s service and ‘High Risk Drug Monitoring’ as a general practitioner’s service. In Ontario, Canada, ‘MedsCheck’ programs encourage pharmacists to manage drug therapy of patients. ‘Long-Term Condition service’ in New Zealand consisted of pharmacist’s services for patients who received prescriptions for multiple long-term conditions and had adherence issues. The US has the ‘Medication Therapy Management’ program that includes a review of prescription history, evaluation of drug therapy, and patient counseling. CONCLUSION Various programs for drug use management were being operated in accordance with the public health system of each country. A comprehensive program for appropriate and safe drug use in patients is also needed in Korea.