One group of investigators evaluated monitors stationed in 25 randomly selected community pharmacies using the same three volunteers (small, medium, and large arm sizes), and the same member of the research team took all the mercury readings [ 3].
The original formulation of lanthanum carbonate was supplied by patients' local pharmacies using the TrialCard® prescription program (TrialCard Inc, Cary, NC, USA); each card was study-specific and individually coded.
Upon completion of the study we asked them to return the remaining tablets and the box to the pharmacy using a pre-paid, return-addressed envelope.
Statisticians assigned the randomization sequence to the pharmacy using a random number generator.
Patients were randomly assigned to melatonin or placebo by the pharmacy, using random assignment in blocks of four.
Patients in VA obtain medication refills by either phoning the pharmacy, using an online patient portal (My Health eVet), using automated calling systems, or making a clinic appointment.
HbA1c was measured at the pharmacy using point of care testing (DCA Vantage, Siemens, Tarrytown, New York, New York, USA) at baseline, 14 and 26 weeks.
Pharmacists systematically identified potential candidates from within their practice by inviting patients with type 2 diabetes (eg, patients on metformin) to test their HbA1c in the pharmacy using validated point of care technology (DCA Vantage, Siemens, Tarrytown, New York, USA).
Relevant laboratory tests and other diagnostic information will be obtained at home or in the local pharmacy using point of care tools coupled to a smart phone or similar device.
In this study a model was developed to assess utilization and drug costs to compare community and mail order pharmacy services using the same group of patients.
