Medication Reconciliation

by Tina Miller RN BSN MHA, Director of Operational Efficiency

Under the umbrella of the National Patient Safety Goals, The Joint Commission continues to focus on medication reconciliation.  As healthcare providers, we must ensure that patient home medications are reconciled upon admission.  This includes when the patient is transferred within the hospital and at the point of discharge.

Currently, the medication reconciliation process is completed by the registered nurse.  The only role the pharmacist plays is to verify the medications patients bring from home into the hospital and to clarify a missing dose or strength of the medication with the patient's home pharmacy.

By January 1, 2010, a pilot project will begin.  The project will incorporate a pharmacist into the medication reconciliation process.  This pilot project is conducted by a pharmacist who is completing a student research project.  The pharmacist in the Emergency Department will review the home medication list, identify any missing or incorrect information and inform the physician.  The physician can then make a decision regarding the continuation of the medication.  Pharmacy medication reconciliation will also occur on the inpatient units.  After implementation, physicians will be asked to complete a brief survey to assist us in determining satisfaction with the revised medication reconciliation process.

The pilot project is just the beginning!  We have heard your requests for a more efficient method to obtain accurate and legible medications lists.  Iatrics is a medication reconciliation system that does just that!  Along with the pharmacist's involvement, 24-hours technical support and super users to assist you; this electronic system is just what we have been waiting for.

We will keep you informed of time lines associated with the implementation of Iatrics.  Please contact me if I can answer any additional questions, Tina.Miller@healthonecares.com.