When compiling the book, a few countries from each global region were selected as models for exemplary drug utilization research methodologies. From the European region, Estonia and Denmark were highlighted and had the opportunity to describe their experiences and methodologies in the book.
“Writing a chapter about Estonia in this book is a significant recognition of the work of the State Agency of Medicine's Statistics Bureau and a unique opportunity to contribute to high-level scientific literature,” noted Janne Sepp, a specialist at the Statistics Bureau. “This acknowledgment extends to both our current and former specialists, who have developed effective and well-functioning solutions for data collection.”
Drug utilization research relies on the collection and analysis of reliable data. Estonia's strength lies in its consistent data collection system, enabling long-term analysis of drug utilization, covering the entire pharmaceutical market—from prescription medications to over-the-counter drugs and hospital medicines.
The use of the internationally recognized ATC/DDD methodology allows for both domestic analysis and international comparisons of drug utilization. “Data collected on a uniform basis provide a solid foundation for understanding trends in drug utilization and making evidence-based decisions,” Sepp emphasized.
Collecting and analyzing reliable data helps us understand how the healthcare system works. It allows us to evaluate treatment choices and ensures that patients receive quality care based on evidence.
The Statistics Bureau of the State Agency of Estonia would like to thanks all pharmaceutical wholesalers and pharmacies for their regular reporting, which helps make the system more efficient. Working together is important for Estonia’s success in drug use research.
The book "Drug Utilization Research: Methods and Applications (Second Edition)" is available in both electronic and print formats, with additional details accessible on the publisher's website. The chapter detailing Estonia's drug utilization research methodology was written by Janne Sepp and Katrin Kurvits, experts from the Estonian Medicines Agency.
