Romania

In 2001, USP DQI began the process of developing a Drug Information Center (DIC) in Romania that would contribute to the rational use of drugs and enhance the skills of healthcare professionals by providing valuable drug information. In March 2003, a DIC was established in "Iuliu Hatieganu" University of Medicine and Pharmacy (UMF) in Cluj, Romania, with the University providing the site, staff, and facilities while USP DQI provided information resources, equipment, training, and other technical assistance. The Cluj DIC opened on February 28, 2004, with an inauguration ceremony and the determination to help advance the health system in the Cluj region and in 2006 became self-sustaining.

The Cluj DIC answers questions and requests for drug information, disseminates drug information bulletins, sponsors seminars, and operates a Web site, further widening its reach to area health professionals. The Center aims to have information on new drugs available to healthcare professionals before the products reach the market, as well as information on the treatment of diseases like tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, and antimicrobial resistance. Because alternative medicines are widely used in Romania, the staff disseminates information about them as well.

Cases of HN51 "avian" flu have been confirmed in Romania and neighboring countries, threatening the public health. In response, the Cluj DIC has developed educational pamphlets and posters for healthcare professionals and the general public about the disease and its epidemiology, transmission, and prevention.