Improving osteoporosis management in general practice: a pharmacist-led drug use evaluation program

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• General Practice
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Osteoporosis management in general practice requires optimization.
• Drug Use Evaluation (DUE) programs can enhance medication prescribing.
• Pharmacist involvement in general practice is a growing area of research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the impact of a pharmacist-led DUE program on osteoporosis management.
• To evaluate changes in the prescription of anti-osteoporosis medicines and supplements.
• To explore the acceptability of the DUE program among healthcare professionals.

Main Methods:

• A DUE program was implemented in two general practices, led by integrated pharmacists.
• Data on anti-osteoporosis medicine and supplement use were collected at baseline and 12 months.
• Interventions included prescriber feedback, education, and patient mail-outs, followed by qualitative feedback.

Main Results:

• Prescription of anti-osteoporosis medicines increased significantly from 59.0% to 70.0% (p=0.002).
• Documented use of vitamin D and/or calcium supplements increased significantly from 63.9% to 85.4% (p=0.002).
• Practice staff and pharmacists reported positive experiences with the DUE program.

Conclusions:

• A practice pharmacist-led DUE program effectively improved osteoporosis management.
• Pharmacist-led interventions are valuable for enhancing medication use in primary care.
• The DUE program demonstrated positive outcomes in osteoporosis care within general practice.