Defining geriatric care in a developing country: A Multidisciplinary model empowering clinical pharmacists

Abstract

Background: The elderly population often has complex health needs due to multimorbidity, polypharmacy, and inappropriate prescriptions. Clinical pharmacists play an important role in optimizing pharmacotherapy as a part of a multidisciplinary geriatric care team. However, there is a lack of integrated models in developing countries. Aim: To develop a standardized framework for the provision of clinical pharmacy services in geriatric care – A Comprehensive Geriatric Care Model. Methods: A systematic service design process was used to develop an innovative geriatric care model in a tertiary hospital in southern India. The roles of stakeholders were captured through interviews and observations. Evidence-based clinical pharmacy services were developed focusing on medication reconciliation, medication review, patient counselling, and transitions of care. Results: The Comprehensive Geriatric Care Model integrates the pharmacist into coordinated care. The responsibilities of physicians, nurses, patients, caregivers, and pharmacists throughout the inpatient stay are shown in swim-lane diagrams. Pharmacy services address inappropriate prescriptions, poor adherence, adverse drug reactions, and fragmented care. Conclusions: The systematic development of an interprofessional geriatric care model embedded with evidence-based clinical pharmacy services was made possible using a patient-centered service design methodology. The implementation and evaluation of this collaborative approach could significantly improve the quality of care and outcomes for older adults.

Keywords

• Clinical pharmacist
• Geriatric
• Interdisciplinary approach
• Developing country