MedsCheck - Medication Review Program Update
On April 1st, 2007, the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care (MOHLTC) launched the MedsCheck program to promote better patient health outcomes by maximizing patient adherence to drug therapy. On July 17th, the ministry announced that the program has been expanded to include all Ontarians.
By now, most pharmacists throughout the province have completed at least one MedsCheck review. The program is easy to implement and integrate into your patient service routine. During the review, patients will have an opportunity to meet with you, one-on-one, to learn more about their medications and ensure that they are taking them safely and properly. The following is an overview of the program.
1. Determining eligibility
To qualify for MedsCheck, a patient:
a. must have a valid OHIP card or Ontario Drug Benefit (ODB) coverage
b. must currently be taking three or more chronic prescription medications
c. must not have completed a Meds-Check within the past year
Eligible Patients Who May Benefit Most
- Patients who have several chronic medical conditions and are taking several medications;
- Patients who have recently been released from a hospital;
- Patients who have had major changes to their medicine schedule;
- Patients who are taking “high-alert” medications, such as opiates or digoxin;
- Patients who may have trouble managing their medication.
2. Preparing for patient interviews
When scheduling a review, remind the patient to bring along all of their medication containers, including medications dispensed at other pharmacies, as well as any over the counter drugs, vitamins and herbal remedies they take. Caregivers should also be encouraged to attend the review, if appropriate.
To ensure privacy, meet with your patient in a private area of the pharmacy, away from other customers. This is important as you will be collecting personal, lifestyle and health information from the patient. If your pharmacy is not currently equipped with an appropriate meeting area, you should consider establishing one.
3. Conducting the review
Review all medications with the patient to ensure they are being taken properly. Identify and help to resolve any problems they may be having in managing their medication regime.
Prepare an accurate medication list to accompany your recommendations. Remember, it is important to promote the value of your professional services. Take a few moments with the patient to review what services you provide and any follow-up plan. Be sure to reinforce your key recommendations. Ask the patient to sign the medication list and provide them with a copy. A copy of the signed medication list must be retained for a period of two years for audit purposes. All Meds-Check claims submitted on the Health Network System (HNS) are subject to post-payment verification and recovery.
Following the completed Meds-Check review, you can make a claim for payment. MedsCheck claims for ODB and non-ODB recipients will be reimbursed at the same rate of $50 per review per year. For updated details on submitting a claim for reimbursement, Click Here
For further reference, the OCP has developed a framework and sample forms for conducting medication reviews, as well as comprehensive medications consultations