Medscheck, Diabetes Medscheck guidelines for PSA members

Reference: http://www.psa.org.au/archives/13898

21 August 2012

The PSA has released comprehensive online guidelines for use by pharmacists providing medicines use review (MedsCheck) and diabetes medication management (Diabetes MedsCheck) services. 

The guidelines have been developed to support the 5th Community Pharmacy Agreement rollout of the programs which began on July 1, 2012.  

PSA has developed additional resources including a useful tips fact sheet, a frequently asked questions fact sheet and interactive online case studies to support the implementation of the new services. 

National President of the PSA, Grant Kardachi, said the additional resources had been developed specifically to meet the needs of PSA members and were available only to members of the Society. 

“MedsCheck and Diabetes MedsCheck aim to improve the quality use of medicines and reduce adverse drug events among people using multiple medicines by helping them better understand and manage them,” Mr Kardachi said. 

“These PSA guidelines help pharmacists to provide the best possible services with optimal health outcomes for patients. 

“They also provide assistance to pharmacists on professional issues and obligations related to MedsCheck and Diabetes MedsCheck activities.” 

Mr Kardachi said the useful tips fact sheet highlighted practical considerations for pharmacies undertaking these services. 

“There are a number of tips including how to work with local health professionals such as general practitioner surgeries, optometrists, podiatrists and others to ensure the services are of optimal benefit,” Mr Kardachi said. 

“The frequently asked questions fact sheet is an excellent reference point to help guide pharmacists and the case studies present practical examples which pharmacists can relate to in their provision of the services. 

“In addition, PSA will be delivering a filmed MedsCheck and Diabetes MedsCheck workshop which will be available online and will provide further practical advice on implementing these services.  Also, most PSA branches will be running a one-day workshop later this year themed ‘Better business with MedsCheck’.
“We will also be offering an online Motivational Interviewing module to support pharmacists in effective interviewing, information gathering and communication with consumers during consultations.” 

MEDIA CONTACT:                          Peter Waterman         0487 922 176