Abstract
Globally, the number of older people requiring appropriate and safe management of medicines is growing. This review aimed to identify the roles and responsibilities of pharmacists supporting older people living in a community setting with their palliative care needs and to synthesise key themes emerging from the data, as well as any gaps in knowledge. The literature search included Medline (Ovid), Scopus, and Cinahl (Ebsco) databases. An English language limit was applied. The search included all international articles and any date of publication. Data were synthesised utilizing a systematic text condensation technique and presented according to Theme, Domain, and Meaning Units. Fourteen studies met the inclusion criteria. Selected papers predominantly focused on care provided by the pharmacists supporting people receiving residential aged care services. Clinical review, supply of medicines, and clinical governance were identified as key pharmacist roles. Pharmacists’ communication skills, personal behavioural approach, and positive attitude emerged as supportive characteristics for effective person-centered care. Minimal, or no information, were available related to pharmacists located in general medical practices and in Aboriginal health services sector, respectively. The multifaceted role of pharmacists presents an opportunity to provide comprehensive health care for older populations at the end of their life.
Highlights
IntroductionThe number of older Australians with palliative care needs is increasing [1]
As the population ages, the number of older Australians with palliative care needs is increasing [1]
Structures exist to facilitate pharmacist involvement in care, we are unaware of any extensive research discussing the full spectrum of their roles and responsibilities, relating to the care of older people receiving Home Care (HC) or Residential Aged Care (RAC) toward the end of their life [13]. This rapid review aimed to identify international published literature that describes the roles and responsibilities of community pharmacists supporting older people receiving HC or RAC with their palliative care needs, to synthesise key themes emerging from the data, as well as identify any gaps in knowledge
Summary
The number of older Australians with palliative care needs is increasing [1]. Multimorbidity is common and this typically contributes to significant polypharmacy [2]. While polypharmacy can be appropriate, there is considerable evidence for its ability to cause harm, which is preventable [3]. Appropriate and safe management of medicines is an important aspect of care for older people [4]. There are several points of weakness in the medication management process which can contribute to poor outcomes [5,6]. In partnership with the multidisciplinary team, community pharmacists are ideal people to facilitate good medicines management for older people, built upon their clinical expertise and existing relationships with people they service, their carers, and the broader healthcare workforce [7,8]. The 2019 report “PHARMACISTS IN 2023: For patients, for our profession, for Australia’s health system” describes the broad remit of Australian pharmacists
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