Medically Integrated Dispensing Pharmacy: ASCO-Network for Collaborative Oncology Development & Advancement Standards...

Area of Science:

• Oncology Pharmacy Practice
• Medication Management
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Medically integrated dispensing pharmacies (MIP) play a crucial role in managing oral anticancer and supportive care medications.
• Existing standards require updates to reflect advancements in patient care and operational efficiency.

Purpose of the Study:

• To revise and update dispensing standards for oral anticancer and supportive care medications within MIP settings.
• To enhance patient access, quality, safety, and outcomes through improved MIP interventions.

Main Methods:

• A multidisciplinary expert panel, including oncology professionals and a patient representative, convened to update guidelines.
• A systematic literature review identified relevant studies published between May 2019 and August 2024.
• Standards were revised and restructured into patient-centered and operational domains.

Main Results:

• Revised standards encompass two primary domains: patient-centered quality and operational quality.
• Patient-centered standards address health equity, social determinants of health, drug access, safety, education, and adherence.
• Operational standards focus on logistics, care coordination, and waste prevention.

Conclusions:

• The updated ASCO-Network for Collaborative Oncology Development & Advancement standards provide enhanced guidance for MIP practices.
• Implementation aims to improve clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction in oral anticancer medication management.
• These standards emphasize rigorous medication management, patient safety, and coordinated care.