Pharmacist facilitation of a home IV therapy treatment program.

A pharmacist's knowledge and experience had strong impact on the success of a home intravenous (IV) infusion treatment program, as stated in the following case study. After reviewing the patient's medical history, clinical course, and drug therapy plan, the pharmacist made recommendations that simplified the home IV self-care program, without compromising the results. The article describes how the pharmacist's liaison between patient and physician resulted in successful treatment and avoided significant costs to the hospital and the State Medical Assistance Program (Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare). As Diagnosis Related Groups (DRGs) become fully implemented, the pharmacist's services will become an even more important component of discharge planning.