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Polypharmacy. Reducing adverse events among the elderly in NJ
G T Hare1, S C Reinhard, J H Brick
1Camden County Health Services Center, Blackwood NJ, USA.
New Jersey Medicine : the Journal of the Medical Society of New Jersey
|January 27, 2000
Summary
This study explores the medical exception process (MEP) to reduce polypharmacy and adverse drug events in elderly patients. It highlights how computer technology, physician judgment, and education can improve care outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Health Informatics
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Polypharmacy and adverse drug events (ADEs) are significant concerns in community-dwelling elderly populations.
- Effective management strategies are crucial for improving health outcomes and reducing healthcare burdens.
Purpose of the Study:
- To detail the medical exception process (MEP) for managing medications in the elderly.
- To illustrate the role of computer technology in optimizing medication management and patient care.
- To present a combined approach integrating technology, physician expertise, and education.
Main Methods:
- Focus on the medical exception process (MEP) and its information flow for physicians.
- Inclusion of clinical examples demonstrating the impact of computer technology.
- Description of a multifaceted approach involving technology, clinical judgment, and education.
Main Results:
- The medical exception process (MEP) can be streamlined with appropriate information flow.
- Computer-based technology shows potential in improving patient outcomes related to medication management.
- A combined strategy enhances the effectiveness of reducing polypharmacy and ADEs.
Conclusions:
- Integrating computer technology with physician judgment and patient/provider education is key to reducing polypharmacy and ADEs.
- Optimizing the medical exception process (MEP) is vital for safe and effective medication management in the elderly.
- This approach offers a promising model for improving care for community-dwelling older adults.