A pharmacist integrated into a general practice in Australia: an evolving model of care in medicines optimization

The general practice pharmacist (GPP) role in Australia is evolving. A pilot GPP model of care developed to optimize medicines for patients at risk of medicine-related harm was evaluated. The aims of this study were 2-fold: to evaluate the GPP model of care on medicines optimization, with a focus on deprescribing, in a population at risk of harm due to their medicines, or clinical condition, and to explore the perspectives of study participants. This single practice study involved two phases. Phase 1 (September 2019-May 2020): at risk patients were referred to the GPP for medication reconciliation, recommendations for optimization, and when appropriate, deprescribing support, especially for opioids. Medication plans were developed with patients, GPs, and the GPP. Quantitative data collected from patient records included demographics, discrepancies, medicines reviewed, GPP recommendations and uptake, and medicines deprescribed. Opioid-related data included dose changes from baseline, at 6 and 9 months, standardized to oral morphine equivalents. Descriptive statistics were used for analysis. Phase 2 (7-21 September 2020): qualitative evaluation using semi-structured interviews was undertaken, to explore the perspectives of GP and patient participants of the GPP model of care. Interview data were thematically analysed. The study had ethical approval. Phase 1: 198 multimorbid patients with multiple medications [median = 13 (9-16)] had at least one GPP consultation (n = 243). Discrepancies were resolved through 88% of GPP consultations; deprescribing commenced or occurred in 54%. Acceptance of GPP recommendations was 86%. Opioids were the most common medicines deprescribed (42% ceased). The baseline median opioid dose [44.4 (30-90) mg] was significantly reduced at 6 months [13.5 (0-40) mg] and 9 months [7 (0-30) mg], P < .0001. Phase 2: Thematic analysis of 28 interviews (10 GPs, 3 practice personnel, 10 patients, 5 carers) identified four key themes: safer foundation for deprescribing, deprescribing opportunities recognition, benefits of embedded GPP, and a supported approach to shared decision-making. General practice provides opportunities for medicine optimization and deprescribing. This study has demonstrated a GPP model of care that achieved functional deprescribing to reduce potential harm in a population at risk and addressed recognized barriers.