The Pharmaceutical Journal
Vol 271 No 7276 p723
22 November 2003

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An informative resource for pharmacists working in primary care

‘Prodigy evidence-based clinical guidance’, edited by Ian Purves and Sharon Smart. Pp i+2002. Price £30. Newcastle upon Tyne: Sowerby Centre for Health Informatics; 2002. ISBN 0 943315

PRODIGY is computerised prescribing decision support available on most general practitioners’ prescribing systems. ‘Prodigy’, the book, is essentially the same guidance in hard copy, providing evidence-based management advice and a learning resource. It covers over 200 conditions commonly seen in primary care. Guidance is written by expert health care practitioners, validated externally and reviewed at least every three years. Relevant clinical trials, national guidelines and Cochrane reviews are referenced.

Each guidance includes background (pathophysiology, epidemiology, prognosis), prescribing and rationale, non-drug advice and when patients should be referred or investigated further. The doctor-patient discussion points could equally be pharmacist-patient points.

Over 200 patient information leaflets on diagnoses and drugs are included. These include details of national self-help or patient groups and simple anatomical sketches to facilitate discussions with patients. Usefully, guidance is cross-referenced to patient information leaflets. Although the book is initially difficult to navigate, the lay-out is consistent throughout with clear headings and indexing. Much of it is in “frequently asked questions” format making it quick and simple to use. The font size is small (probably to keep it to a manageable size). Clear language is used throughout.

This book is an informative, evidence-based resource for pharmacists working in primary care.

C. Alice Oborne

PRODIGY is continually updated and the most recent guidance can be found on the website at www.prodigy.nhs.uk — EDITOR.

Ms Oborne is principal pharmacist — medicines use research, at Guy’s and St Thomas’ Hospital, London