Medicines optimisation

NICE has defined medicines optimisation as “a person-centred approach to safe and effective medicines use, to ensure people obtain the best possible outcomes from their medicines”. But how does the NHS Discharge Medicines Service relate to its principles? 

• Principle 1: Aim to understand the patient’s experience

The discussion with the patient provides an opportunity to find out about their experience of taking their medicines and what outcomes are most important to them. This discussion will ensure the patient is at the centre of service provision.

• Principle 2: Evidence-based choice of medicines

Community pharmacists can advise on choice of medicines, for example in cases of supply disruption, supported by local area/CCG formularies.

• Principle 3: Ensure medicines use is as safe as possible

Moving between care settings puts the patient at increased risk of medicines-related adverse events. The service aims to reduce this risk, improve safety for patients and reduce readmissions to hospital. It also aims to give patients more confidence in taking their medicines and asking questions about them.

• Principle 4: Make medicines optimisation part of routine practice

The service promotes improved systems of communication between healthcare professionals and different care settings. This means patients should receive consistent messages about medicines. It also helps to promote referral and signposting routes for patients to provide further support with their medicines.

Once you've completed this module, move onto:

• Discharge Medicines Service: part three
• Discharge Medicines Service: part four
• Discharge Medicines Service: part five