145 ASSESSING MEDICINE LISTS: A QUALITATIVE STUDY WITH MULTIPLE STAKEHOLDERS. (25th October 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: O'Donovan, B; Kirke, C; Pate, M; McHugh, S; Bennett, K; Cahir, C
• Is Part Of: Age and ageing. Volume 51(2022)Supplement 3
• Publication Date: 2022-10-25
• Subjects: Aging -- Periodicals; Geriatrics -- Periodicals; 618.97
• DOI: 10.1093/ageing/afac218.122
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0002-0729

Abstract

Abstract: Background: Multimorbidity and polypharmacy often result in numerous interactions with different Healthcare Professionals (HCPs) and many transitions of care. Keeping up-to-date medications list in people taking medicines and/or carers can reduce medication errors at care transitions. The HSE National Quality Improvement team is working on a national medication safety campaign which encourages people to keep lists. However, there is limited information about perceptions of Patient-Held Medication Lists (PHML) in clinical practice. The aim of this study was to examine attitudes to PHML among people taking/managing multiple medicines, HCPs; and how lists are used in practice. Methods: Purposive sampling was employed and recruitment through relevant organisations, social media and snowballing methods. Semi-structured telephone interviews were conducted with 39 people; HCPs (N=21), patients/caregivers (N=18). Interviews were transcribed and thematically analysed with behavioural frameworks - the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) and Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF). Results: Three core themes were identified: Attitudes to PHML; Function and preferred features of PHML and Barriers and facilitators to future use of PHML. All participants thought keeping medication lists had benefits for both people and HCPs (e.g. empowering, improving adherence). All who were taking medicines used lists and found them useful in particular situations (e.g. emergencies). However, HCPs and patient/caregiver groups expressed concerns about their accuracy. It was felt that some individuals may have difficulties keeping an accurate PHML (e.g. older adults, on multiple/changing medications). The participants also differed on the level of detail that should be included in PHMLs. Most patients favoured simple lists but HCPs reported the lack of detailed information in PHML may be an issue. Conclusion: Common concerns about the accuracy of PHML and diverging opinions on list content need to be addressed. Health promotion strategies which focus on promotion of lists by key HCPs and provide people with a variety of list options could increase the wider implementation of PHMLs.