Pharmaceutical Care: Impact on Asthma Medication Use

Autor: Deborah Burton, Peter M. Gissing, Mark A. Burton, Scott Bowman, Maree Simpson
Rok vydání: 2004
Předmět:
Zdroj: Journal of Pharmacy Practice and Research. 34:26-29
ISSN: 1445-937X
DOI: 10.1002/jppr200434126
Popis: Background: Asthma has been recognised as a poorly managed disease state in Australia. Rural areas have been identified as being underserviced by health professionals. Pharmacists in rural areas are in a prime position to be involved in the provision of multidisciplinary asthma care. Aim: This study investigated the impact of spirometry screening on asthma management by pharmacists in rural areas. Method: A two group (intervention: n=141, control: n=46) multicentre study design was utilised. The control group was provided with a standard medication review while the intervention group received spirometry testing and a medication review. The study protocol required pharmacists to refer participants to a doctor if required, based on spirometry or medication review results. The researchers assessed asthma severity and adequacy of asthma medication. Results: Spirometry as an intervention attracted participants to the study pharmacies and provided an opportunity for pharmacists to screen and refer a group who may otherwise be overlooked. Medication review identified suboptimal therapy, potentially contraindicated drug combinations and adverse drug reactions. Conclusion: Spirometry adds benefit to the provision of pharmaceutical care for people with asthma. This may have additional significance in rural areas where access to other health services is limited. (author abstract)
Databáze: OpenAIRE