Care issues and medication review

Abstract

Objective: To undertake a pharmacist medication review for patients receiving chronic medication in a community pharmacy setting. Method: Patients collecting their free medication from a specific community pharmacy through the ‘Pharmacy of Your Choice’ (POYC) scheme had their medication records reviewed by a pharmacist to identify any drug- related problems. A questionnaire regarding the use of their medication, patient check- ups and medication compliance to their prescribed regimen was performed for each individual patient. Key findings: Eighty patients were studied. The average number of medications per patient was 6 medications. Forty- two patients (52.5%) claimed to pick up their repeat prescription when they visit their doctor. Thirty- one patients (39%) stated that they experienced medication side effects. From the pharmacist medication review it transpired that 19 patients (24%) were at a risk of clinically significant drug interactions. Conclusion: Community pharmacists can help patients use their medication more effectively. They can support prescribers in the selection of the most appropriate therapy for the individual patient. In chronic disease management, pharmacist-led medication reviews can help optimize pharmacological therapy reducing medication-related problems. This can help achieve treatment goals and improve patients’ quality of life.