Pharmacokinetics Laboratory and Consultation Service for Ambulatory Patients

Abstract

When implementing clinical pharmacokinetics consultation services for ambulatory patients, one should strongly consider developing an outpatient pharmacokinetics laboratory. Published literature clearly documents the benefits of clinical pharmacokinetics services. In addition, there are educational, financial, and research advantages to creating an outpatient pharmacokinetics laboratory. One should demonstrate the need for the service; determine the scope of services; design patient and specimen work flow; decide what personnel, space, and equipment are needed; and justify costs and revenue. Recent federal legislation, such as the Clinical Laboratory Improvements Amendments and the Occupational Exposure to Hazardous Chemical in Laboratories Act (1988), will have a significant positive impact on an outpatient pharmacokinetics laboratory.