In Vietnam, tackling the complexity of healthcare among elderly patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) has always posed significant challenges due to the prevalence of comorbidities and the necessity for multiple medications. These patients often grapple with medication adherence issues and risks associated with improper drug use. A recent study conducted at a tertiary care hospital’s outpatient clinic now sheds light on how Comprehensive Clinical Pharmacy Services (CPS) can effectively address these challenges, optimizing medication management and enhancing patient care outcomes.
Study Design and Methodology
The study implemented a prospective approach, targeting elderly patients aged 60 and above who have been living with T2DM for at least a year and had high HbA1c levels. A trained clinical pharmacist led a structured CPS intervention, incorporating Medication Therapy Management (MTM) alongside collaborative goal-setting with patients. Researchers aimed to examine the reduction of Drug-Related Problems (DRPs), improvement in patients’ HbA1C levels, and to assess both doctors’ and patients’ satisfaction with the services.
Findings and Impact
Among 210 participating patients, most exhibited polypharmacy, and a significant number of DRPs were identified, ranging from unintentional misuse to intentional non-adherence. Pharmacist interventions resulted in a high acceptance rate by physicians, and the clinical significance was universally recognized. Remarkably, the interventions led to a decline in patients not meeting HbA1c targets.
– The study observed CPS not only reduces DRPs but also significantly boosts glucose control.
– Physician and patient satisfaction levels highlighted the value of these services in clinical settings.
– The role of the trained clinical pharmacist proved integral in improving medication management.
Introducing structured clinical pharmacy services into the care plan for elderly diabetes patients in Vietnam brings tangible improvements in both glycemic control and overall healthcare satisfaction. By facilitating better medication management and collaborative care strategies, CPS initiatives act as vital components in diabetes management, though financial constraints still appear to limit patient willingness to pay for services. The study thus insists on the formal integration of these services into routine diabetes care, underlining their potential to alleviate healthcare burdens through improved outcomes.
This article has been prepared with the assistance of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more details, please refer to our Terms and Conditions. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author.
