Cost of medication-related problems at a university hospital.

This study used retrospective chart review to determine estimated costs of defined medication-related problems (MRPs). In analyzing more than 100 patient charts and nearly 1900 MRPs, the authors report costs related to clinical outcomes, including additional laboratory tests, intensive care unit stay, overall length of stay, and need for invasive monitoring. Their assessment produced an estimated total cost in 1 year of nearly $1.5 million. The authors suggest a role for a pharmacist intervention to reduce the costs and improve the quality of care provided to hospitalized patients.