Evaluation of Good Hospital Pharmacy Practices in the University Clinics of Kinshasa

The hospital pharmacy plays a central role in ensuring the safety and efficacy of healthcare. The implementation of Good Pharmacy Practices (GPP, WHO; Basel Statements, FIP) is essential to guarantee the quality of pharmaceutical services; however, few data are available on their application in the Democratic Republic of Congo. To assess the level of compliance with Good Hospital Pharmacy Practices in the University Clinics of Kinshasa and identify areas for improvement. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted between January and June 2025. The audit focused on 20 key indicators in six areas: governance and organization, procurement, stock management, dispensing, pharmacovigilance and safety, and human resources. Data collection used direct observation, structured questionnaires, and checklists based on international standards. The compliance score was calculated as a percentage for each area and for the overall assessment. The overall good practice compliance score was 85%, reflecting a high level of compliance. Compliance rates by area were: governance & organization (100%), procurement (100%), stock management & storage (100%), dispensation (67%), pharmacovigilance & safety (67%), and human resources & training (50%). Strengths include structured organization, standardized procedures, and qualified staff. The main areas requiring improvement are batch traceability, pharmacovigilance, and ongoing training. The CUK hospital pharmacy maintains a high level of compliance with good practice, serving as a reference model for other hospitals in the DRC. Targeted actions, including strengthening pharmacovigilance, implementing systematic stock monitoring, and providing ongoing staff training, are recommended to achieve optimal compliance and ensure patient safety.

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