Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Italy retains a unique wealth of information on drug usage, embodied in the OsMed Report, published since 2001 and based on data collected by the National Observatory on the Use of Medicines. The Report analyzes data on drug dispensing, pharmaceutical expenditure, and prescribing appropriateness; it monitors regional and temporal variations in drug use and identifies public health issues, promoting a more appropriate use of medicines. METHODS: As part of the III Edition of the Forum on Regional Pharmaceutical Policies, titled “Ensuring equitable and consistent access to pharmaceutical care while safeguarding the sustainability of the National Health Service”, a dedicated Working Group examined how Regions can apply the OsMed Report to share strategies to improve therapeutic appropriateness. RESULTS: The discussion emphasized the need for more efficient management of health data and a greater interoperability between information systems to enhance institutional responsiveness. Additionally, the Group explored the development of indicators linking pharmaceutical consumption to clinical outcomes, which could support regional planning through predictive and up to date tools. CONCLUSION: The Working Group highlighted the strengths and weaknesses of the OsMed Report, proposing solutions to make it more accessible and useful at the regional level, to promote therapeutic adherence and to improve the transparency of drug access timelines.