Comprehensive Analysis of Pharmacist-Led Medication Reconciliation Programs: Evaluating Benefits and Challenges

Abstract

Background: Medication reconciliation is a critical process in healthcare that aims to prevent medication errors and improve patient safety, particularly for individuals with complex medication regimens. Pharmacists play a pivotal role in conducting medication reviews, which have been associated with enhanced patient outcomes.

Methods: This scoping review synthesizes findings from 24 systematic studies to assess the effectiveness of pharmacist-led medication reconciliation programs across various healthcare settings. The review examines key characteristics of medication evaluations, including types, intensity, delivery methods, and teamwork dynamics among healthcare professionals.

Results: The analysis reveals significant variability in the effectiveness of pharmacist-led medication reconciliation, with studies indicating improvements in clinical outcomes such as blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and hospital readmission rates. However, many studies exhibited low to critically low quality, complicating the interpretation of results. The review highlights that direct patient interaction, access to clinical documentation, and interprofessional collaboration are crucial factors influencing successful outcomes.

Conclusion: While pharmacist-led medication reconciliation programs show promise in enhancing medication management and patient safety, the evidence remains ambiguous due to inconsistencies in study methodologies and reporting practices. Standardization of medication review processes and clearer definitions of interventions are essential for future research. By improving the rigor and transparency of studies, healthcare systems can better leverage the benefits of pharmacist-led initiatives to optimize patient care.