A regular feature in Pharmacy Connection, Close-Up On Complaints presents the story of a complaint recently received by the College. The latest article in the series explains why Medication Reconciliation is Key in Transfer of Care.

The incident outlined in this article occurred when an elderly patient was discharged from the hospital and was mistakenly given four medications that were never prescribed for her. The error resulted in the patient experiencing delirium and being re-admitted to hospital. It was discovered that the patient’s Best Possible Medication History (BPMH) form included a second page belonging to a different patient. 

All pharmacy professionals can learn something from this unfortunate incident. Particularly, the importance of conducting appropriate medication reconciliations, ensuring medications are suitable for the patient, and following up on any discrepancies.

Any time there is a transfer of care, there is an increased probability of medication errors. Pharmacists are in a good position to help recognize red flags and identify errors, but must be aware and ask the right questions. Read the full Close-up On Complaints article to learn more about using your medication therapy expertise to provide the best patient-centred care possible.

The College currently has 10 practice tool videos on our website and YouTube channel. Each one has important information to assist you in providing optimal, patient-focused care.

Some of the videos include:

• Integrating Pharmacy Technicians into Community Practice
• Narcotics Reconciliation
• Documentation in the World of Expanded Scope
• Managing Workflow in My Busy Community Pharmacy

Be sure you’re taking advantage of these valuable resources!

View the College’s collection of practice tool videos today!

For many years now the College has helped to coordinate and promote CE Coordinators (pictured here from October 2015) – volunteer pharmacists who organize continuing education activities in communities throughout Ontario.

The College is excited to announce that effective July 2016 the CE Coordinator program will be transferred to the Ontario Pharmacists Association (OPA) and become part of their extensive professional development network.

The College applauds and appreciates the hard work and dedication of these CE Coordinators and wishes them continued success in organizing professional development opportunities for pharmacists and pharmacy technicians.

To find a CE Coordinator in your area, visit the OPA website.

Applications to participate in the 2016-2017 Universal Influenza Immunization Program (UIIP) are now available on the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care's Website.

Applications are due June 30, 2016.

For more information visit the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care's website.