Care Home Medication Review Templates (2021)

Cambridgeshire and Peterborough CCG

Project Summary

This project involved the design, development and implementation of structured medication review templates which are imbedded in the GP clinical systems to support the different stage processes of the Medicines Optimisation Care Home Pharmacist Led Medication Review Service. As the team and service expanded, it was evident that the current processes in place were no longer fit for purpose and by using the digital technology available, we were able to streamline the process.

We wanted to provide high quality thorough structured medication reviews (SMRs), with a standardised recording process to our care home residents. To provide this service, we developed a Word-based form which extracted patient data, including most recent blood test results, recent acute medication, and current repeat medication. This form is part of the SMR process followed by the Medicines Optimisation care home team, which also includes a clinical recording template that is imbedded in the GP clinical systems. The word -based form is stored within the clinical record so that it is accessible to other clinicians.

By developing these templates, it has decreased the teams administrative time, as a lot of the data is now imported into the template, therefore reducing the risk of transcription errors and minimising the risk of confidential data breach through the export of information.

All documentation remains within the patients’ medical records which benefits other health care professionals who may be accessing the patients’ medical records.

The form also allows for a systematic approach to reviewing each medication individually, as well as the patient holistically.