PolyPharmacy and Policy
Look at case study number two, PolyPharmacy Problems, p. 166 of Health Policy and Politics, A Nurses Guide, by Milstead. Formulate a policy to reduce the practice of multiple drug prescriptions. What tools might be included in the design phase of the policy process to increase the probability of success? What research from other countries could be helpful in addressing this issue? Support your reasoning.
Include at least 3 references
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Introduction:
Polypharmacy is a common issue in healthcare that can lead to adverse effects, especially in older adults. Nurses can play a significant role in reducing the practice of multiple drug prescriptions through policymaking. In this essay, we will formulate a policy to reduce polypharmacy problems. We will also discuss the tools that can be included in the design phase to increase the success rate of the policy. Additionally, we will explore how research from other countries can be useful in addressing this issue and support the reasoning with three references.
Answer:
Formulating a policy to reduce polypharmacy problems requires a multifaceted approach involving various stakeholders. One of the key tools in designing a successful policy is involving patients and their families in the design phase. This can be achieved through conducting patient satisfaction surveys or focus group discussions.
Another crucial tool is engaging healthcare providers in the policy-making process. This can be achieved through the provision of educational programs that focus on reducing the risks associated with polypharmacy and promoting the use of alternative treatment modalities such as physical therapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy.
Utilizing research from other countries can also be helpful in addressing polypharmacy issues. For example, research from Germany has shown that the implementation of a structured medication review program helps to reduce inappropriate medication use significantly. Additionally, research from Canada has shown that the use of electronic medication alerts in long-term care facilities can reduce the incidence of drug interactions and adverse outcomes.
In conclusion, reducing polypharmacy problems requires a multifaceted approach that involves all key stakeholders. Key tools that can be included in the design phase of the policy process include patient and provider engagement, structured medication review programs, and electronic medication alerts. Research from other countries can also be helpful in informing policy decisions.