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HomeMeds

An Evidence-Based Practice

Description

HomeMeds is a medication use improvement program developed specifically for agencies providing in-home services and health care to older adults. The program addresses four common medication problems, as identified by an expert panel of researchers: (1) unnecessary therapeutic duplication, (2) cardiovascular medication problems (e.g., poorly controlled high or low blood pressure, drop in blood pressure upon standing, low pulse), (3) use of psychotropic drugs by patients with possible adverse psychomotor or adrenergic effects (e.g., falls, dizziness, confusion), and (4) use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) by patients at high risk of peptic ulcer complications.

Goal / Mission

The mission of the program is to shape the evolving health system by developing and spreading high-value models of community-based care and self-management for diverse populations with chronic conditions.

Results / Accomplishments

The HomeMeds system led to discontinuation of potentially harmful medicines, decreased confusion and dizziness, better pain control, decreased risk of falls, and improved blood pressure control. The program identified potential medication problems in 40-60 percent of older adults screened. Pharmacists recommended changes in medications for 60 percent of the participants who screened in with potential problems. Of those recommendations, 60 percent led to changes that improved medication use.

About this Promising Practice

Organization(s)
Partners in Care Foundation
Primary Contact
June Simmons, President and CEO
732 Mott Street Suite 150
San Fernando, CA 91340
818-837-3775 x102
jsimmons@picf.org
https://www.picf.org/june-simmons-2/
Topics
Community / Public Safety
Health
Community / Social Environment
Organization(s)
Partners in Care Foundation
Date of implementation
1997
For more details
Target Audience
Older Adults
Santa Cruz