Communication about Drug-Related Problems (DRPs) during Patients' Visits to Dutch Physicians and Pharmacies

V.J.B. Huiskes*, C.M. Cramer-van der Welle, C.H.M. van den Ende, L. van Dijk, J.M. Bos, C. Kramers, B.J.F. van den Bemt

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleAcademicpeer-review

Abstract

The objective of this study is to assess the frequency and type of drug-related problems (DRPs) (1) raised and discussed (2) raised but not discussed or (3) not raised during patients' visits to healthcare practitioners (HCPs). In this cross-sectional study in Dutch outpatient clinics, GP practices and pharmacies, verbal cues from patients and HCPs indicating DRPs were inventoried by an observer during visits. It was also observed whether raised DRPs were discussed between patient and HCP. Post-encounter interviews (HCPs) were conducted and post-encounter questionnaires (patient) were distributed to identify DRPs not raised. In total, 431 patients were observed during a single visit. In 42.2% of these visits, 311 DRPs were raised (weighted mean (SD) 0.7 (+/- 1.1) DRP/patient). Of these 311 DRPs, 82.0% were discussed between HCP and patient. HCPs did not raise existing DRPs in 3.9% of the 431 visits; in 6.3% of the 176 questionnaires the patient reported an existing DRP that had not been raised. In conclusion, almost one in six of the DRPs raised during visits are not discussed between HCP and patient. Furthermore, existing DRPs are not even raised in 4-6% of the visits. HCPs and patients should be aware that, although patients often have DRPs, these are not always discussed or not even raised during patients' visits.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)201-208
Number of pages8
JournalHealth Communication
Volume35
Issue number2
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 28 Jan 2020

Keywords

  • hospital admissions
  • HOSPITAL ADMISSIONS

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