Medication Reconciliation for the Older Adult Population in Rural Primary Care

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this QI project was to improve the medication reconciliation processfor older adults in a rural primary care setting, enhance medication communication between providers and patients, deepen patient understanding of their medications, and enable patients to be active participants in their care. Background: Medications play an integral role in managing acute and chronic conditions. Medication errors are preventable events that have the potential to cause harm to patients, increase preventable hospitalizations, and increase the cost of healthcare. Healthcare providers are responsible for reconciling medications with patients at each visit to ensure the safe and appropriate use of prescribed medications. The older adult population is at a higher risk of medication errors, and effective methods of medication reconciliation are needed. Methods: This project utilized a note card to write down prescribed medications during medication reconciliation as its intervention. The project occurred in a rural Utah community with 10 participants ages 65 years and older taking prescribed medications. After providing consent, each participant completed a pre-and post-intervention survey to collect data on the planned objectives for the project. Results: This project provided insight into the patient’s experience, limitations with medication reconciliation, and the effectiveness of using a note card to write medication down during the reconciliation process. Most of the participants reported that utilizing the note care for medication reconciliation was helpful, improved communication with the provider, engaged them in their plan of care and helped them with managing their medications in the future. Errors in medication administration and use were observed in 8 (80%) of the 10 participants. Conclusion: Providers are responsible for ensuring appropriate use and patient understanding of their prescribed medications. Utilizing a note card during medication reconciliation may assist in appropriately managing medications for older adults in rural primary care settings.