HIQ Implements I.T. Solution for Medications Reconciliation at TDHB

Patients coming into hospital should bring all their current medications with them. And now, with IT support from HIQ, the Taranaki DHB is making it easier for them to remember.

The DHB’s Medicines Reconciliation Project is set to reduce medication errors, improve efficiencies and provide safer transcribing.

The project focuses on how medication information is handled from admission to discharge. It involves a new electronic reconciliation process to better track patients’ medication changes during their hospital stay. This is a national pilot undertaken in conjunction with the Safe Medication Management Programme and the National Health IT Board.

Part of the project is the introduction of green bags for people to store their medicines in whilst in hospital. The bright green bags are for high medication users and are a helpful reminder to bring medications to hospital.

TDHB Chief Pharmacist Elizabeth Plant says it is vital people bring their medications with them - whether it be to the Emergency Department or the wards - and be willing to discuss what they are taking with the doctors.

“The doctors need to accurately know what medications people are taking prior to admission to ensure assessments and treatment can be thorough and accurate.”

The DHB is involving everyone with the introduction of green bags for patient’s medication. This includes GPs, rest homes, hospital departments and pharmacies.