Home health patients are at substantial risk for medication problems and errors. A medication management model designed specifically for use by home health agencies proved effective in a recent study conducted by Vanderbilt University: Medication use improved in 50% of intervention participants compared with 38% of controls. The model uses a structured collaboration between a clinical pharmacist and a home health nurse. It can help providers meet federal standards for medication review and improve clinical outcomes by identifying and preventing medication errors in their patients. This article presents findings from the study and strategies for implementation so other home health providers can adopt the model for use in their practices.
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