THIS week's contributor is Gerard Stevens, Managing Director at Webstercare - 2020 Pharmacy Market Outlook: There has traditionally been a high risk in Residential Aged Care associated with continuity of medication supply when the doctor has not been forthcoming with prescriptions at the right intervals.
When reducing risk in aged care it's important to ensure you are on board with the National Residential Medication Chart (NRMC), to eliminate owing prescriptions. The NRMC standardises charting in residential aged care (RAC) and, importantly, the chart is used as a valid prescription.
As pharmacists we are, by our nature and training, risk averse. It's no great surprise that not one complaint has been made about the delivery of pharmacy services to the Aged Care Royal Commission. A significant and under reported fact to note. Nevertheless, we know that risk management will be front and centre of its recommendations. So, it's important to elevate our approach to risk management in line with community expectations.
Over the next month I will offer suggestions that minimise the risk of medication error and harm for the elderly living in aged care facilities and the community.
The above article was sent to subscribers in Pharmacy Daily's issue from 03 Feb 20
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