Reducing drug-related readmissions in older patients with pharmacist support
Involving Clinical Pharmacists in Transitional Care to Reduce Drug-related Readmissions Among the Elderly - a Randomized Controlled Trial
This study tests if extra support from pharmacists can help older patients over 75 avoid going back to the hospital due to medication problems.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 700 (estimated) |
| Ages | 75 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Umeå University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Umeå) |
| Trial ID | NCT03671629 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This clinical trial investigates the effectiveness of a clinical pharmacist intervention aimed at reducing drug-related readmissions among patients over 75 years old. The study involves a randomized controlled design where participants receive enhanced pharmacist services, including regular medication reviews and follow-up calls to discuss adherence and potential drug-related issues. Data on patient adherence and quality of life will be collected at baseline and during follow-up periods of 30 and 180 days. The intervention focuses on improving the transition of care from hospital to primary care settings.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are older adults over 75 years who are living at home and have been acutely admitted to the hospital.
Not a fit: Patients who are unable to communicate, do not speak Swedish, or are scheduled for palliative care may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly reduce hospital readmissions related to medication issues in older adults.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that pharmacist interventions can effectively reduce medication-related problems and hospital readmissions, suggesting a promising approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Living at home * Acutely admitted * Registered at one of ten pre-specified primary care health centers Exclusion Criteria: * Patients unable to communicate or who do not speak Swedish * Patients scheduled for palliative care * Patients admitted due to intoxication by alcohol or drug (non prescription)
Where this trial is running
Umeå
- Medical Centre, University Hospital of Umeå — Umeå, Sweden (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Maria Gustafsson, Ph.D — Umeå University
- Study coordinator: Kindstedt
- Email: jonas.kindstedt@umu.se
- Phone: +46706572422
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.