What is a Home Medicines Review?
A Home Medicines Review (HMR) refers to the process in which a qualified pharmacist evaluates the medications you are using at home.
Managing multiple medications can be complex. A Home Medicines Review ensures that your medications are safe. Additionally, a Home Medicines Review verifies that:
- you are administering your medications correctly
- your medications are effective for you
An HMR includes your physician and your chosen community pharmacy. It may also involve other members of the healthcare team, such as caregivers or community practice nurses.
If you are responsible for someone else’s medical care, it is crucial to manage their medications with great care. Improper administration or mixing incompatible medications can lead to serious repercussions.
An HMR is distinct from a medication review conducted by your physician or in a hospital setting. Physicians ensure that you are prescribed the appropriate medications for your condition.
How can I receive a Home Medicines Review?
Your doctor will determine your necessity for a Home Medicines Review. If your doctor concludes that you would gain from the service, they will issue a referral to a pharmacist.
Generally, your doctor will select a pharmacist for you. This pharmacist must possess the necessary credentials.
You can also find a pharmacist in your area using the healthdirect Service Finder.
What is the expense associated with a Home Medicines Review?
You are not obligated to pay for the Home Medicines Review. However, you may incur a fee for visiting your doctor for the referral, unless they provide bulk billing.
What takes place during a Home Medicines Review?
Before your HMR
Prior to the pharmacist’s visit to your home, ensure that you compile all the medications you are taking. Remember to include:
- your prescribed medications
- any over-the-counter medications acquired from the pharmacy, shops, or ordered online
- any vitamins, supplements, and herbal remedies you are consuming
Make sure to include your:
- inhalers
- patches
- creams
- eye or ear drops
During your HMR visit
The pharmacist will visit your home.
They will engage in a conversation regarding the medications you are taking, which will include:
- prescription medications
- over-the-counter medications
- vitamins and supplements
The pharmacist will:
- ensure that your medications have not surpassed their expiration date
- evaluate your method of taking your medications
- propose methods to assist you in remembering to take the correct medication at the designated time
- instruct you on the proper storage of your medications
Moreover, the pharmacist can demonstrate how to utilize and care for any medical devices you may have, such as inhalers, blood pressure monitors, and blood glucose monitors.
After your HMR
The pharmacist will draft a report and send it to your doctor. You should arrange a follow-up appointment with your doctor after your HMR.
Your doctor will review the report with you and create a plan for managing your medications. The report suggests that some of your medications could be altered.
Your doctor will discuss any modifications they make. If you agree, a copy of your plan will be sent to your local community pharmacy. This will aid your pharmacy in assisting you with any changes to your medications.
After discussing the report with you, the doctor will provide you with a ‘Medication Management Plan’. This should be shared with all your healthcare providers.
What occurs if I reside in an aged-care facility?
When residing in an aged-care facility, a medication review is referred to as a Residential Medication Management Review.
Your physician will need to refer you for this review.
The pharmacist will come to your aged-care facility. They will discuss your medications with:
- you
- your family
- caregivers
- staff at your aged-care facility
The pharmacist will prepare a report for your physician and healthcare team. This report may include recommendations on how to enhance your medication management.
How often should I undergo a Home Medicines Review?
If your situation changes – for instance, if you begin taking new medications – you may require another HMR. Otherwise, you can have a Home Medicines Review every two years.
If you believe your medications are impacting your daily life, consult your physician or pharmacist.
Is a Home Medicines Review suitable for me?
It is advisable to request an HMR if you:
- take multiple medications
- have medications prescribed by various doctors
- start a new medication
- have recently been hospitalized
- feel unwell after taking medications
- do not consistently remember to take your medications
- have concerns regarding your medications
Tools to assist you in managing your medications
These tools and resources can aid you in managing your medications.
- Visit the NPS MedicineWise website for advice and tips on managing medications.
- Create a My Health Record. This is a secure online summary of your health information. You can control what is included and who can access it. You can opt to share this health information with doctors, hospitals, and other healthcare providers.
Resources and support
NPS MedicineWise provides information on home medicine reviews translated into other languages – Safe use of medicines with anticholinergic effects for older people