Design and validation of a framework for pharmacist-recommended medicines to improve access and patient outcomes

Abstract

Introduction: Improved access to medicines is associated with improved patient outcomes, particularly in primary care. Clear criteria for identifying medicines suitable for pharmacist recommendation remain diverse.

Aim: To develop and validate a structured framework for identifying medicines that may be classified as pharmacist-recommended medicines (PRMs).

Results: The final framework comprised of 34 domains across three positive sections: (A) Patient Safety, (B) Access to Medicines, (C) Overall Cost to Patients and the Healthcare System; and one negative section: (D) Overall Risk/threats. Sections were weighted to reflect their relative importance (table 1). The positive score was calculated through the summation of the of the weighted score for the positive sections. The final score was calculated by subtracting the negative score from the positive score, dividing by 600 and multiplying the result by 100 (figure 1). The score obtained classifies the medicine as: 1) May be considered as PRM, 2) May be considered as PRM with guidelines, 3) Shall only be recommended by physicians.

Conclusion: This framework provides a systematic approach to evaluating medicines for pharmacist recommendation in minor acute conditions. Its application may potentially enhance timely access to medicines, reduce the risk of disease progression, and reduce the burden on physicians and the healthcare system.