Tools and tactics for postdischarge medication management interventions.

PURPOSE

To identify interventions for organizational pharmacist-leaders and frontline pharmacy staff to optimize peri- and postdischarge medication management.

SUMMARY

An evidence-based toolkit was systematically constructed on the basis of findings of 3 systematic overviews of systematic reviews. The interventions were reviewed by a technical expert panel and categorized as either tools or tactics. The identified tools are instruments such as diagrams, flow charts, lists, tables, and templates used in performing a distinct operation, whereas identified tactics reflect broader methods (eg, reduced dosing frequency). Tools and tactics were chosen on the basis of their potential to improve postdischarge medication management, with a focus on interventions led by pharmacy staff that may reduce hospital readmissions among older, sicker patients. Overall, 23 tools and 2 tactics were identified. The identified tools include items such as education, text messaging, and phone calls. The tactics identified are dose simplification and monetary incentives. Practical information has also been provided to facilitate implementation.

CONCLUSION

Several tools and tactics are available to optimize peri- and postdischarge medication management. Organizational pharmacist-leaders and frontline pharmacy staff can implement these interventions to improve patient outcomes.