Why an Updated Medication List Is Important
An up-to-date medication list helps to ensure that patients are taking their medications appropriately and that the best possible care is delivered during a visit to the hospital. Here’s why it matters:
Boosting Medication Adherence:
Medication adherence simply means that a patient is taking their medications as prescribed by their healthcare provider. An up-to-date list helps with:
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Clear information: Confusion can be reduced when both patients and their healthcare providers know exactly what medications are being taken and why they are on them.
- Avoiding duplicates: Bringing an up-to-date list to every visit can help reduce duplicate medications from being prescribed.
- Preventing Side Effects: An up-to-date medication list makes checking for potential harmful drug interactions easier. This may reduce side effects that may stop patients from taking their medications as prescribed.
Improving Hospital Care:
During a hospital stay, having an up-to-date medication list can help improve patient care in these ways:
- Smooth Transitions: Ensures that any changes to a patient’s medications are documented when they move between different areas of the hospital or when being discharged.
- Informed Decisions: Improves communication, and allows the healthcare team to customize a medication regimen based on what a patient is currently taking.
- Safety: Reduces medication errors such as wrong dosages, missed medications, or medications that should not be given together; improving safety and reducing the chance of side effects.
How to Keep Your Medication List Updated:
- Review Regularly: Check your medication list with your doctor at each visit.
- Communicate: Notify your doctor if there are any changes to your medication regimen.
- Use Technology: Take advantage of electronic health records and patient health portals.
- Learn About Your Medications: Understand what you’re taking and why, to stay on top of your health.
References:
Brown, M. T., & Bussell, J. K. (2011). Medication adherence: WHO cares?. Mayo Clinic proceedings, 86(4), 304–314.
Jimmy, B., & Jose, J. (2011). Patient medication adherence: measures in daily practice. Oman medical journal, 26(3), 155–159.
Mekonnen, A. B., McLachlan, A. J., & Brien, J. A. (2016). Effectiveness of pharmacist-led medication reconciliation programmes on clinical outcomes at hospital transitions: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMJ open, 6(2), e010003.
