Estimated cost impact of clinical pharmacist interventions in a pediatric primary care clinic

Introduction: The changes within our nation’s healthcare system have continued to place emphasis on primary care as the principal method to meet the ever-increasing healthcare needs of the population. Utilizing pharmacists as medication therapy experts can help improve patient care, while reducing cost and maximizing resources.

Objectives: Our project sought to establish clinical pharmacy services within a pediatric primary care clinic and identify areas of impact for a clinical pharmacist.

Study Design: Clinical pharmacy services were provided over the course of 1 month. Patient chart reviews were conducted and therapy modifications were recommended to physicians.

Methods: Prior to the initiation of pharmacy services, clinicians and staff were polled as to what services could be provided. The pharmacist analyzed patient charts, conducted medication reconciliations, and provided drug information and patient counseling services. Clinical pharmacist interventions were logged in a secure database.

Results: Over the course of 1 month (18 business days) a total of 86 interventions were logged. Interventions included 22 asthma action plans, 20 therapy modification recommendations and 23 medication reconciliations, along with other patient counseling and drug information services. Estimated cost savings to be calculated. Research is in progress.

Conclusions: Research is in progress.