ALEXANDRIA, Va. — The National Association of Chain Drug Stores Foundation said its patient care database has more than doubled in size since going live about a year ago.

Launched in February 2010, the NACDS Foundation Patient Care Database is a free, publicly accessible and searchable health care resource designed to provide a portal for information on pharmacist-provided patient care services beyond dispensing prescription medications.

The database is a collaborative effort between the NACDS Foundation and the University of Tennessee Center for Medication Therapy Management, which compiles peer-reviewed academic studies, study citations and abstracts, journal articles and news reports relating to pharmacist-provided patient care services — ranging from immunizations and health screenings to medication therapy management services and patient counseling — and the resulting patient outcomes.

In particular, the database features a collection of articles on strategies and interventions that community pharmacists have tested to improve patient adherence to their medication regimens.

"The Patient Care Database is truly a unique, one-stop shop resource for public health officials, researchers, academia, students and the general public," NACDS Foundation president Edith Rosato stated. "Its growth runs parallel to the public’s own desire, interest and demand for information that empowers their health care decisions."

The foundation plans to hold a live demonstration of the Patient Care Database, available through its web site, on Feb. 16 at 3 p.m. EST.