Aged care pharmacist push

THE Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) has welcomed last weekend’s government announcement of a Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, saying it provides an opportunity to consider embedding pharmacists in aged care to improve medication use.

The Royal Commission will examine the quality of care in both private and government-run aged care facilities, following exposure of several cases of neglect and abuse.

PSA national president Shane Jackson said inappropriate use of medication in aged care had been a concern for many years.

“We’ve seen reports that indicate over 50% of residents in some aged care facilities are receiving sedative type medications, have suboptimal pain control, and are taking medications that are no longer necessary,” he said.

In addition, “crushing of medications puts residents at greater risk of side effects, including falls,” Jackson noted.

Last night the ABC’s Four Corners program highlighted the treatment of older Australians in aged care homes, including examples of inappropriate medicines use.

Jackson said the reports were particularly distressing for PSA members.

“Pharmacists are a key group of health professionals who understand how much medicine safety and quality directly impacts the health and wellbeing of vulnerable residents in aged care facilities - both negatively and positively,” he said.

The PSA president urged better coordination and greater investment in healthcare professionals like pharmacists which should be built into the operation and design of aged care facilities across Australia.

“Research shows positive health outcomes are delivered in models where pharmacists and pharmacy services are embedded and integrated within aged care facilities...these pharmacists support doctors in making the right decisions about the use of medications, guide nurses in the correct administration of medications, and regularly review medications residents are taking.”