How can pharmacists develop and implement a home antibiotic program?

Many hospital pharmacists are evaluating home antibiotic programs (HAPs). In addition to providing a new role for the pharmacist, commercial activity in this area fosters the idea that providing an HAP is a profitable business. Those evaluating HAPs should take a careful approach to this service, evaluating the market potential and cost feasibility before devoting the time and effort in implementing a program. If the market potential exists, and the program appears to be feasible from a cost standpoint, a pilot project should be performed based on experiences reported in the literature. If this is successful, a training and services program can be fully planned, developed, and implemented. Evaluating an HAP is important to obtain data required to improve the program and establish the need for reimbursement. Joint ventures with vendors or other hospitals may be a way to provide this service without making a major commitment of resources from the hospital.