Pharmacist-Led Discharge Transitions of Care Interventions for Pediatric Patients: A Narrative Review

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Pharmacy
• Medication Management
• Healthcare Transitions

Background:

• Transitions of care (TOC) are critical for medication management, especially in pediatrics.
• Current quality standards for pediatric TOC are insufficient, impacting children's health outcomes.
• Pediatric patients require focused interventions during care transitions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify pediatric populations benefiting from TOC interventions.
• To describe medication-focused TOC interventions during and after hospital discharge.
• To guide pediatric pharmacists in integrating TOC interventions for children.

Main Methods:

• This study is a narrative review.
• It characterizes pediatric populations needing TOC interventions.
• It describes various medication-focused TOC interventions and delivery models.

Main Results:

• Specific pediatric groups needing enhanced TOC support were identified.
• Medication reconciliation, education, access, and adherence tools were detailed.
• Different models for delivering TOC interventions post-discharge were reviewed.

Conclusions:

• Pediatric TOC interventions are essential for optimizing medication management.
• Pharmacists and pharmacy leaders can use this review to implement effective discharge processes.
• Improved TOC strategies can lead to better health outcomes for children.