Prescribing patterns in a family medicine residency program.

The methodology and results of a concurrent review of prescribing practices in a family practice residency are discussed. A clinical pharmacist reviewed copies of prescriptions returned to him during a six-month period, and he tabulated information to allow comparisons of clinic prescribing patterns with national patterns. Additionally, peer group comparisons within the residency were made. It was found that tricyclic antidepressants were prescribed more frequently than anxiolytic drugs, a distinct difference when compared to national prescribing reports. Peer group comparisons showed apparent autonomy in prescribing habits among residents and faculty, and the drug "repertoire" and number of prescriptions written increased as the number of years in the residency progressed.