Cost analysis of pharmacy education using time driven activity-based costing (TDABC) at Pharmacy School of Isfahan University of Medical Sciences

Abstract

Aims: This study aims to calculate the total cost of educational services delivered by the School of Pharmacy at Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, focusing on the cost associated with training pharmacy students using time-driven activity-based costing (TDABC).

Methods: Data were collected through designed forms, interviews, and direct observations. Financial, budgetary, and educational experts ensured compliance with administrative guidelines. A cost accounting system via TDABC was designed and implemented to allocate costs accurately.

Results:  In 2019, the Faculty of Pharmacy at Isfahan University of Medical Sciences allocated an average of 2 billion and 50 million and 29 thousand rials per pharmacy student for educational and research purposes. This figure increased to 2 billion and 997 million and 845 thousand rials in 2020 and slightly decreased to 2 billion and 730 million and 260 thousand rials in 2021.

Conclusion: "This study delves into a crucial issue of accurately estimating the cost of pharmacy education at the School of Pharmacy, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences. The research emphasizes the optimal utilization of resources, which can be achieved through data analysis and the adjustment of certain costs.