Medication Management

In Australia, medication-related issues account for over 250,000 hospital admissions annually, and half of these could be prevented with improved medication management.1 This shows there is huge scope for Pharmacists to improve the wellbeing of patients by identifying potential issues before they become dangerous and preventing hospital admissions. Pharmacists can do this by delivering quality use of medicines services like providing tailored dose administration aids, conducting comprehensive medication reviews, and engaging in patient education.

Poor medication adherence is a significant issue in healthcare. Pharmacists can identify barriers to adherence and implement strategies to improve patient compliance. This is typically through the supply of dose administration aids. This health promotion will support Pharmacists in promoting their packing services to supply fully or partially government funded administration aids.

Medication reviews, either MedsChecks or more in-depth Home Medicines Reviews with accredited Pharmacists, can identify potential drug interactions, duplications, unnecessary therapies, and other medication related problems to help optimise patient medication regimens and avoid adverse events. Pharmacies should be the first contact point for patients with concerns about their medicines as they are one of the most accessible healthcare professionals. Pharmacists have in-depth knowledge of medicines and can provide guidance to patients and other healthcare professionals.