Collaborative medication management for older adults after hospital discharge: a qualitative descriptive study

Pereira, Filipa; Bieri, Marion; del Rio Carral, Maria; Martins, MM; Verloo, Henk

http://hdl.handle.net/10400.26/44577

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Authors

Pereira, Filipa

Bieri, Marion

del Rio Carral, Maria

Martins, MM

Verloo, Henk

Abstract(s)

Background Safe medication management for older adults after hospital discharge requires a well-coordinated, interprofessional, patient-centered approach. This study aimed to describe the perceived needs for collaborative medication management for older adults taking several different medications at home after hospital discharge. Methods A qualitative descriptive study was conducted using semi-structured interviews with older adults (n=28), informal (n=17), and professional caregivers (n=13). Results Findings revealed four main needs: older adults and informal caregivers’ perceived needs for greater involvement in discharge planning; older adults’ perceived needs to be informed, listened to, and to be actively involved in decision-making; informal caregivers’ perceived needs for help in supporting and coordinating medication management; and older adults’ and informal and professional caregivers’ perceived needs for better communication and coordination between professional caregivers. Conclusion This study revealed two underutilized pathways towards improving collaborative medication management: medication follow-up involving a community healthcare professional taking an overarching responsibility and empowering older adults and their informal caregivers in medication management after hospital discharge.