Development of an innvoative technology-driven transitions of care service to improve medication use in rural populations [abstract] Abstract uri icon
Overview
abstract
  • PURPOSE: Pharmacist-driven transitions of care have demonstrated the ability to reduce hospital re-admissions and improve patient outcomes. However, access to pharmacy services in rural areas limit opportunities for patients to benefit from face-to-face pharmacist care within the critical time period immediately following discharge. An innovative approach to in-home medication reconciliation and patient education supported by technology is one solution to increasing access to care for this population. METHODS: This service is based on a partnership between a community pharmacy organization and nearby hospitals in rural Ohio. Upon discharge, the pharmacist reconciles and coordinates the hospital discharge orders with their community pharmacy records, the primary care provider, and the patient. Post-discharge medications are dispensed in a calendarized adherence packaging system. Medications are delivered to the patient’s home by the community pharmacy’s delivery service. At delivery, the patient receives education from the pharmacist via videoconferencing on a computer tablet. Unneeded medications are removed from the patient’s home to prevent confusion. Pharmacists follow up with patients as needed based on their specific needs. RESULTS: Data is currently being collected in order to empirically evaluate this process. Outcomes include re-admissions at 30 and 180 days following discharge and patient satisfaction with the service. Pharmacists also document drug therapy problems identified during medication reconciliation. CONCLUSION: This innovative pharmacist care model may offer a solution to increasing access to pharmacy services for underserved patients during a critical transition in care.

  • publication date
  • 2015
  • published in
  • Pharmacotherapy  Journal
  • Research
    keywords
  • Drugs and Drug Therapy
  • Pharmaceutical Services
  • Pharmacists
  • Rural Health
  • Additional Document Info
    volume
  • 35
  • issue
  • 11