Journal of Applied Pharmacy
Open Access

Significance of Assessing Chronic Illness in Medication Therapy Management Practice

^*Correspondence: Matthew Hudmon, Department of Pharmacy, Purdue College of Pharmacy, Indianapolis, USA, Email:

Author info »

Description

Medication Therapy Management (MTM) is a critical aspect of pharmacy practice that involves a comprehensive approach to ensuring that patients receive the most effective and safe medications for their health conditions. Medication Therapy Management (MTM) services aim to optimize medication use, improve patient outcomes, and reduce healthcare costs. This study explores the importance of MTM in pharmacy practice and the benefits it offers to patients, healthcare providers, and the healthcare system. MTM services offer a range of benefits to patients, healthcare providers, and the healthcare system. The MTM's main advantages are as follows:

Improved patient outcomes

MTM services can improve patient outcomes by ensuring that patients receive the most effective and safe medications for their health conditions. By identifying and addressing medicationrelated problems, such as adverse drug reactions, drug interactions, and medication non-adherence, MTM services can help patients achieve better health outcomes and quality of life.

Increased medication adherence

Medication non-adherence is a significant problem that can lead to poor patient outcomes and increased healthcare costs. MTM services can help improve medication adherence by providing patient education and support, simplifying medication regimens, and addressing medication-related barriers to adherence.

Reduced healthcare costs

MTM services can help reduce healthcare costs by preventing medication-related problems, such as adverse drug reactions and hospitalizations, and by promoting the use of cost-effective medications. In addition, MTM services can help reduce healthcare costs by improving medication adherence and reducing the need for additional healthcare services.

Enhanced patient safety

Medication-related adverse events are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality. MTM services can help enhance patient safety by identifying and addressing medication-related problems, such as adverse drug reactions, drug interactions, and medication errors.

Improved quality of care

MTM services can help improve the quality of care by providing a comprehensive approach to medication management that addresses the individual needs of each patient. By optimizing medication use and promoting medication safety and adherence, MTM services can help healthcare providers deliver high-quality care that meets the unique needs of each patient.

Challenges in implementing medication therapy management

While MTM services offer a range of benefits, implementing these services can be challenging. Some of the key challenges in implementing MTM services include:

Reimbursement: One of the main challenges in implementing MTM services is reimbursement. Many healthcare payers, including Medicare, do not currently provide adequate reimbursement for MTM services. This lack of reimbursement can make it difficult for pharmacies and other healthcare providers to offer MTM services to their patients.

Integration into clinical workflows: Integrating MTM services into clinical workflows can also be challenging. MTM services require a comprehensive approach to medication management that involves assessing patients.

The need for medication therapy management

Medication use is a fundamental aspect of healthcare, and it plays a critical role in the management of various health conditions. However, the complexity of the modern medication regimens, the prevalence of chronic conditions, and the growing number of medications available on the market have made medication management a challenging task for patients and healthcare providers alike. In addition, medication-related problems, such as adverse drug reactions, drug interactions, medication non-adherence, and inappropriate medication use, can lead to poor patient outcomes, reduced quality of life, and increased healthcare costs. Medication Therapy Management (MTM) services aim to address these challenges by providing a comprehensive approach to medication management that involves assessing patients' medication-related needs, identifying medication-related problems, and developing and implementing individualized medication plans that optimize medication use and improve patient outcomes. MTM services can be provided by pharmacists or other healthcare providers and may include a range of activities, such as medication reviews, medication reconciliation, patient education, and collaborative medication management.