Comment on medication management models and other pharmacist interventions: implications for policy and practice

Area of Science:

• Health Policy
• Pharmacology
• Geriatric Medicine

Background:

• The Medicare Modernization Act (MMA) of 2003 mandates Medication Therapy Management (MTM) Services.
• Implementation challenges exist for policymakers and administrators regarding MTM services for targeted beneficiaries.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comment on the policy and practice implications of providing MTM Services under Medicare Part D.
• To present findings from pharmacist-centered interventions as solutions for medication management in Medicare beneficiaries.

Main Methods:

• Review of policy implications and recommendations from the American Society of Consultant Pharmacists (ASCP).
• Analysis of findings from the Medication Management Model and other community-based pharmacist-centered interventions.

Main Results:

• Discussion of challenges in operationalizing MTM Services by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).
• Examples of successful pharmacist-led interventions to improve medication management and prevent medication-related problems.

Conclusions:

• Pharmacist-centered interventions are crucial for effective Medication Therapy Management.
• Addressing policy and practice implications is essential for successful implementation of MTM Services for Medicare beneficiaries.