The Performance Evaluation of Home Medicine Delivery by Health Riders in Hospitals under the Nong Khai Provincial Public Health Office.

Abstract

     This survey research aimed to evaluate the context, input factors, processes, outcomes, and outputs of the home medication delivery service by riders for patients of hospitals under the Nong Khai Provincial Public Health Office, conducted between May 2024 and December 2024. The sample consisted of 290 service recipients from hospitals that developed their own delivery system, and 300 service recipients from hospitals that used private company delivery systems. Data collection was carried out through semi-structured interviews with the personnel involved in home medication delivery. Descriptive data was presented, and questionnaires were used to gather general information and opinions from both the riders and service recipients. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics.

            The study found the following results: Context Evaluation: Hospital administrators demonstrated strong leadership in systematically implementing policies from the provincial level into practice. There was continuous communication through regular meetings. Input Factors Evaluation: Systematic planning was conducted by a multidisciplinary team. Clear operational guidelines were established for selecting service recipients. Training programs were provided for riders. One of the hospitals developed a software program specifically designed to support medication delivery services that aligned with its operational context. Process Evaluation: The implementation process was systematic and ongoing. A risk management system was in place to handle potential issues during delivery. Real-time monitoring and evaluation mechanisms were implemented. A clear reimbursement system was established, and continuous improvements were made to ensure service convenience for recipients, contributing to successful operations. Outcome and Output Evaluation: The rider-based home medication delivery service effectively reduced waiting times for medication pickup, as evidenced by a decrease in complaints about medication delays. Service recipients expressed willingness to use the home delivery service again if given the opportunity. In terms of opinion scores, the sample group of riders rated the service as highly appropriate across all aspects context, input factors, processes, and outcomes/outputs. Likewise, the service recipients also gave the highest ratings for all evaluation areas.