Over 12,000 at-risk patients received additional support with their medications when leaving hospital
With the use of specialist software, over 12,000 patients have received support from their community pharmacist thanks to a national AHSN programme rolled out to six trusts so far in the East Midlands.
When people are discharged from hospital, they may need extra support in taking their prescribed medicines; especially if their medication or dosage has changed. TCAM ensures patients receive ongoing support from their local, community pharmacist so they have the correct medicines and are confident in taking them safely and appropriately after hospital discharge. The results are reduced readmission rates – during 2019-20 it is estimated that TCAM enabled over £9m of savings for the region’s health and care system from reduced readmissions to hospital.
The project aims to address the increased risk associated with medicines and transfers of care. Between 30 and 70% of patients experience unintentional changes to their treatment or medication errors because of miscommunication between care providers.
We have been working closely with trusts in the region to support the implementation and use of TCAM which has resulted in an increase in referrals in 2019-20, with over 12,000 at-risk patients now benefiting from additional support with their medication from their community pharmacist when leaving hospital.
