ICHP Position Statement - Pharmacist's Role in Transitions of Care
ICHP supports the leadership role of pharmacists and their involvement in medication management during transitions of care to optimize patient outcomes.
Pharmacists' in-depth, evidence-based knowledge of medication therapy positions them to contribute to improved patient outcomes during care transitions. Among the processes that pharmacists can lead are:
Medication history on admission
Medication reconciliation review on admission, transfer, and discharge
Discharge medication access and counseling
Addressing the gaps within the continuity of care regarding medications
Post-discharge medication follow-up
The success of optimizing patient outcomes during transitions of care requires:
Multidisciplinary support and collaboration
Effective integration of the pharmacy team which may include pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, pharmacy students, and pharmacy residents
Electronic health records accessible by both inpatient and outpatient providers
Systematic measurement of objective outcomes
More information on specific components of Pharmacists' involvement in transitions of care can be found on the ASHP Policy Positions page.