A study of prescribing and utilization patterns in three long-term care facilities. Utilization of a capitation fee or unit dose drug distribution under the Texas Medicaid Program

The increased longevity of the average American has helped make more visible the natural degenerative processes of the cellular components of the human body. Lay-terms such as 'stroke' and 'hardening of the arteries' define medical problems which may not have been prominent 200 years ago. To those individuals afflicted by debilitating medical problems, nursing home care is offered as a less expensive means to receive quality care. Unfortunately, Senate hearings on kickbacks, drug misuse and misappropriation of funds has tarnished the reputation of this health care industry. This two phase investigation was conducted as a pilot study on prescribing habits and drug utilization and their relationships to the use of a capitation system or unit dose drug distribution system in Texas nursing homes. [...]