Healthy Skepticism Library item: 7617

Warning: This library includes all items relevant to health product marketing that we are aware of regardless of quality. Often we do not agree with all or part of the contents.

Publication type: Journal Article

Moffitt CM, MacLean EA, Noris-sullivan V.
Helping seniors understand the healthcare system: A pharmacist directed educational series
ASHP Midyear Clinical Meeting 2003;

Abstract:

Americans over age 65 comprise 13% of the U.S. population. Many older Americans have chronic health conditions that require prescription drug therapy. Since 50% of the 1.8 billion prescriptions dispensed annually are taken incorrectly, older Americans may be at risk for drug misadventures. To educate older Americans about the healthcare system and safe medication use, Pfizer launched Informed Choices for Seniors, a series of lectures and “brown bag” sessions at 5 senior centers in Boston. Each program included a pharmacists delivered lecture, to address: understanding one’s health plan; communication with health care providers; understanding prescription labels; OTC/herbal products; and, the importance of adherence. Following the lecture, pharmacists provided individual counseling. The Vulnerable Elders Survey (VES) was modified to include questions to understand actions participants may take based on program content. The series reached 162 seniors. Of the 88 surveys completed, 98% of participants found the program helpful/somewhat helpful and 81% learned something new. As a result of the program, 80% of respondents will speak to a pharmacist, 91% will speak to a physician, 16% will change how they take medication, 46% will change how they store medication and 85% will maintain a medication list. Of the 48 attendees who completed the VES, 65% scored > 3 indicating they may be at risk for health decline over the next 2 years. Individual consults revealed drug-drug interactions, drug-disease interactions and inappropriate dosing. Program participants became more knowledgeable healthcare consumers. A senior center is an ideal setting for delivery of pharmacist directed education.