Sticking to a New Year’s resolution takes work. When considering how you might improve your pharmacy practice this year, why not focus on small changes that will have a big impact on patient health? As part of Chat, Check, Chart, we’ve identified four vital behaviors that don’t take much effort, but can lead to improved patient outcomes and a more effective practice.
Connect with patients
- Take a moment to connect with the person at the counter—listen to their needs and gather information
- Discuss their goals of therapy and let them know how you can help
- Follow up on previous discussions you have had with them
Confirm and document indication
- Don’t make assumptions—confirm the “indication for use” so that you know what needs to be assessed
- Document the indication electronically so that other pharmacists can access it
Access Netcare
- Use Netcare routinely as part of your assessment, care plan, and follow up
- Review lab values, fill history for narcotics and controlled substances, and Schedule 2 drugs
Assess at refill
- Invite the patient to talk—find out how their medications are working for them
- Evaluate medication therapy for indication, effectiveness, safety, and adherence
These behaviours are outlined in the Vital to CCC tool card—download a copy from our website, or request a printed version, and use it as a reminder.
