Medication therapy management: a challenge for pharmacists.

Area of Science:

• Health Services Research
• Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Health Policy

Background:

• Pharmacists have historically provided personalized patient services, but recognition and fair payment for cognitive services have lagged.
• The Medicare Modernization Act of 2003 served as a catalyst for the formalization and expansion of pharmacist-provided services.

Purpose of the Study:

• To track the evolution of Medication Therapy Management (MTM) services offered by pharmacists.
• To examine MTM programs within the Medicare Part D outpatient prescription drug benefit.
• To evaluate pharmacist and patient perceptions and barriers related to MTM implementation.

Main Methods:

• Review of core elements and services within MTM.
• Examination of MTM programs under Medicare Part D.
• Analysis of studies demonstrating economic and clinical benefits of MTM.
• Evaluation of barriers to MTM implementation at the pharmacy level.

Main Results:

• MTM services have evolved, with Medicare Part D outlining specific programs and benefits.
• Pharmacist and patient perceptions of MTM value are documented.
• Barriers to MTM implementation exist at the pharmacy and pharmacist level.
• Key studies confirm the economic and clinical advantages of MTM.

Conclusions:

• MTM services represent a significant advancement in pharmacist-led patient care.
• Understanding perceptions and barriers is crucial for broader MTM adoption.
• Evidence supports the economic and clinical value of MTM, suggesting potential for expansion beyond current Medicare thresholds.