Medication Management

What is an adverse drug event?

An adverse drug event (ADE) refers to an injury caused by a medication error during a medical intervention. ADEs occur in over five million visits a year and can happen in all care settings including hospitals and urgent care.

Symptoms of an adverse drug event can include:

• Confusion
• Loss of appetite
• Itching
• Difficulty breathing
• Low blood pressure
  
  

If you seek treatment from a provider who isn’t aware of the medications you’re taking, the treatment they provide can result in an ADE. Medication management can help you avoid ADEs in all aspects of health care.

How does medication management prevent an adverse drug event?

Medication management is used to keep records of the medications you’re taking as well as any changes to your regimen. Medication management helps both you and your doctor stay on track of your medications, dosages, and any new developments related to your condition.

Your doctor provides you with a complete and accurate list of your medication regimen that can be used when seeking medical treatment. This list, also known as medical reconciliation, informs providers of your medication regimen, helping you avoid an adverse drug event.

Medication management is also an opportunity for your doctor to ensure your medication regimen is safe and appropriate for your condition(s).

What should I expect?

To develop a record of your medication regimen, a member of the Heal 360 team performs a medicine review. During this review, you’ll need to bring in all your medications including over-the-counter medications, inhalants, injections, herbal medicines, and ointments.

Your provider sits down with you to develop a detailed account of your medication regimen, including the frequency, dose, and names. You discuss the details of each medication and the reason you’re taking them. This is a great time to get clarification on any medicine instructions.

Once the review is over, you’re provided with a detailed list of your medication regimen that you can use on your next hospital or office visit.

Medication management makes it easy for patients to keep track of their medications and avoid adverse drug events. To find out if medication management is right for you, book an appointment by phone or online today.