PRESCRIBERS, PATIENTS AND POLICY - THE LIMITS OF TECHNIQUE

What is good prescribing? In this paper we will look at the kinds of c riteria which are relevant to evaluating prescribing. In particular we wish to challenge, or at least re-frame, the picture of prescribing a s an essentially technical process. In so doing we hope to indicate so mething more general about the power, and limitations, of technical ra tionality in health care, and to contribute something to work in healt h care technology assessment. Finally we hope this discussion will act as a stimulus towards a much needed revision of the way 'good' prescr ibing is defined by current policies, guidelines and protocols. (C) 19 97 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.