Dispensing Medications at the Hospital Upon Discharge From an Emergency Department

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Emergency Medicine
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Children frequently visit emergency departments (EDs) for various conditions, necessitating clear follow-up care.
• Medication adherence after ED discharge is crucial but often hindered by access barriers such as pharmacy hours and cost.
• A significant proportion of pediatric patients fail to obtain prescribed medications post-ED visit.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of dispensing medications from the emergency department (ED) on medication adherence in pediatric patients.
• To identify barriers to medication access and adherence following emergency care.
• To explore strategies for improving continuity of care from emergency settings to the medical home.

Main Methods:

• Review of pediatric ED discharge protocols and medication access challenges.
• Analysis of medication acquisition rates and adherence factors post-ED discharge.
• Assessment of the feasibility and impact of on-site ED pharmacy dispensing.

Main Results:

• Approximately one-third of pediatric patients do not obtain essential medications after ED discharge.
• Barriers include limited pharmacy hours, medication cost, and caregiver understanding of treatment importance.
• Dispensing medications directly from the ED outpatient pharmacy can significantly improve adherence.

Conclusions:

• On-site medication dispensing in the ED is a practical solution to improve pediatric medication adherence.
• Addressing access barriers at the point of care enhances continuity of care and patient outcomes.
• Routine follow-up with the primary care medical home remains essential for comprehensive pediatric care post-emergency encounter.