Patients' views of the value of “brown bag” medication reviews

Abstract

Abstract Objective To explore and describe patients' views of the value of brown bag medication reviews. Method Semi-structured, tape-recorded interviews were conducted with 20 patients who had participated in a brown bag medication review scheme. Setting A health authority area in south-east inner London. Key findings Patients perceived the following benefits from brown bag reviews: clinical problems resolved; better understanding of their medications, leading to increased confidence; and appreciation that an interest was being taken in their health care. Reviews had given patients a sense of empowerment, and had made them realise that they had a right to information about their medical treatment and medication. As a result they were likely to be more proactive in seeking information in future. Reviews had made patients realise that pharmacists were knowledgeable about medicines, where previously many had thought that only doctors had sufficient knowledge. Reviews had enhanced relationships between patients and pharmacists. However, some patients still perceived their doctor as the authoritative source of information about medicines. Patients' accounts indicated that much of the information provided by the pharmacist was new, raising the issue of what information was routinely being provided by pharmacists. Conclusions Brown bag reviews were regarded by patients as beneficial and they wanted them to be available in the future. Patients' perceptions of pharmacists as health professionals and providers of information on medicines were enhanced by brown bag reviews.