Medication reconciliation in ambulatory oncology new patient clinics

Area of Science:

• Health Services Research
• Patient Safety
• Clinical Pharmacy

Background:

• Medication Reconciliation (MedRec) is vital for safe medication management and patient safety.
• Current MedRec processes involve various methods, disciplines, and can vary in timing and location.
• Streamlining MedRec in ambulatory oncology new patient clinics is a recognized challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To pilot an alternative Medication Reconciliation (MedRec) approach in ambulatory oncology new patient clinics.
• To evaluate the feasibility and impact of pharmacists with advanced prescribing privileges completing MedRec prior to patient clinic visits.
• To identify factors influencing the optimal timing and method for MedRec completion.

Main Methods:

• A pilot study was conducted in ambulatory oncology new patient clinics.
• Pharmacists with advanced prescribing privileges performed MedRec with patients before their clinic appointments.
• Evaluation involved collecting metrics, a pharmacist focus group, and surveys of healthcare staff and patients.

Main Results:

• The pilot indicated multiple factors influence the ideal timing and method for MedRec.
• Flexibility in the MedRec process was demonstrated as a key element for success.
• Ongoing efforts are needed to minimize duplication in the MedRec process.

Conclusions:

• Pharmacist-led pre-visit MedRec is a viable alternative for streamlining the process in oncology.
• Optimizing MedRec requires a flexible approach considering various influencing factors.
• Reducing duplication in medication reconciliation remains an important goal for enhancing patient safety.