Informing policy makers in developing countries: Practices and limitations of geriatric home medication review in Malaysia-A qualitative inquiry

Abstract

Objective: To explore existing practices and challenges in the delivery of geriatric home medication review (HMR). The study was part of a larger study aimed to offer solution to expand the range of geriatric HMR. Methods: This study employed qualitative exploratory design through semi-structured individual in-depth interviews with the public pharmacists involved in the delivery of geriatric HMR at public hospitals. The purpose of the interviews was to explore challenges faced by them in the delivery of geriatric HMR. Results: Based on the emerging themes from the qualitative data, the study reveals that geriatric HMR in Malaysia is integrated as part of multidisciplinary home care visits, encompassing a diverse patient population with various healthcare needs. However, it faces challenges such as the lack of outcome monitoring, formal training, and workforce constraints. Despite these hurdles, there is a pressing need for the expansion of this service to better serve the community, and collaboration with community pharmacists holds potential to broaden its scope. Ultimately, the findings suggest that pharmacist- led HMR is both warranted and feasible within the Malaysian healthcare context. In order to optimize medicine-use among older people living in the community, approaches for expanding geriatric HMR services in Malaysia must be developed. Conclusions: This study holds profound implications as it attempts to illuminate policy makers in developing countries, enabling them to formulate effective HMR plans. By considering the challenges highlighted within this research, policy makers can design a comprehensive HMR service that caters adeptly to the healthcare needs of the mass population.

Keywords

• home medication review; older adults; malaysia; pharmacists; low-to-middle-income countries