Project Octo-Pills-Engaging community pharmacists in the care of patients from a tertiary hospital: A pilot study

To evaluate the effectiveness of a pilot model engaging community pharmacists in the collaborative care of patients from a tertiary hospital, in terms of identification and resolution of drug-related problems (DRPs), and patients' acceptance and satisfaction with the program.

A prospective case series was conducted. Eligible patients were recruited from the tertiary hospital and referred to their preferred community pharmacy for medication reconciliation, review, and counseling. The number and types of DRP identified and resolved during or after the medication review were collated. A patient survey was conducted upon completion of the study.

A total of 32 participants completed the study. A total of 63 DRPs were identified from 379 medications reviewed, and 60 (95.2%) were resolved by the community pharmacists. Failure to receive drug (n = 21, 33.3%) and drug interactions (n = 11, 17.5%) were the most common DRPs. Survey feedback indicated that the service was well received.

In this model, community pharmacists can play an important role in identifying and resolving DRPs by providing patients with medication reconciliation and review services from a more convenient location within their neighborhood.