Home Medicine Reviews in the South West of WA
A personalised FREE service covered through medicare
Accreditations:
About Alexandra Shepherd
BSc. MPharm. PSA.
She has over 10 years of experience working as a pharmacist in Australia. She is a passionate advocate for holistic health and wellness. Alexandra holds a Bachelor Degree is Science and a Master’s in Pharmacy from Curtin University. She has also undergone her Accreditation through the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) to become a consultant pharmacist specialising in home medicines reviews and is AHPRA registered.
Home Medication Review
HMR Services
What is a HMR?
A Home Medication Review (HMR) is a personalised FREE service covered through medicare, where an accredited pharmacist assesses a person's medications in their home environment. Addressing potential side effects, adherence and optimising treatment. HMRs help to enhance patient understanding, safety, and overall healthcare outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers To Commonly Questions
Who would benefit from a HMR?
A Home Medication Review (HMR) is particularly beneficial for the following people:
- Recently discharged from hospital, as they may face medication changes and gaps in information
- Taking multiple medications (5 or more medications, supplements, or Over-The-Counter medications)
- Are seeing multiple doctors or specialists, where coordination of care is crucial.
- Experiencing suboptimal medication response or adherence.
- Are on medications that are of higher risk.
HMRs ensure personalised medication management, improving safety and efficacy for such patients.
Where does a HMR take place?
A HMR is carried out in the comfort of your own home. The accredited pharmacist, will visit your at your home to discuss and see all your medications.
What happens during the visit?
During your Home Medication Review (HMR) visit, the pharmacist will come to your home and engage in a discussion about the medications you are taking, encompassing prescription medicines, over-the-counter products, vitamins, and supplements. The pharmacist will perform the following:
- Verify that your medications haven't expired.
- Assess how you take your medications.
- Provide suggestions to help you remember to take the correct medicines at the right times.
- Offer guidance on proper storage of your medications.
Additionally, the pharmacist may demonstrate how to use and care for any medical devices you utilise, such as inhalers, blood pressure monitors, or blood glucose monitors.
This comprehensive review aims to enhance your understanding of your medication regimen and optimise your overall health outcomes.
What happens after the HMR visit?
After your Home Medication Review (HMR), the pharmacist will compile a comprehensive report and forward it to your doctor. It is advisable to schedule a follow-up appointment with your doctor to discuss the report. During this appointment, your doctor will review the recommendations and create a tailored plan for managing your medications. The report may suggest changes to your medicines, and your doctor will communicate any modifications, seeking your agreement. If you consent, a copy of the plan will be sent to your local community pharmacy, ensuring they can support you with any adjustments to your medications. Following the discussion, your doctor will provide you with a 'Medication Management Plan,' which should be shared with all your healthcare providers to facilitate coordinated care.
What do I need to prepare for my HMR?
Before the pharmacist's home visit, ensure you have all your medications ready, including:
Prescription medicines
Over-the-counter medicines purchased from the chemist, shops, or online
Vitamins, supplements, and herbal remedies
Inhalers
Patches
Creams
Eye or ear drops
Having these items prepared will facilitate a comprehensive Home Medication Review, allowing the pharmacist to assess your complete medication regimen and provide tailored advice for your health and well-being.
How much does a HMR cost?
The Home Medication Review (HMR) itself does not incur any cost for you, it is covered by Medicare. However, you may need to check with your doctor regarding consultation fees for the referral, unless they bulk bill. It's important to note that the HMR service is fully covered by Medicare, ensuring accessibility for all eligible patients.
Do I need a referral for a HMR?
Yes, a referral is required for a Home Medication Review (HMR). Your doctor will assess your eligibility and, if deemed beneficial, provide a referral to an accredited community pharmacist. Typically, your doctor will either send your referral through to your usual pharmacy who will then pass the referral on to an accredited pharmacist (often independent from the pharmacy) or your doctor will choose an independent accredited pharmacist for you, ensuring the comprehensive and unbiased nature of the review.
How long does it take?
Typically, the home visit for a Home Medication Review (HMR) will last between 30-45 minutes. This duration allows for a thorough assessment of your medications, addressing any concerns, and ensuring a comprehensive understanding of your health needs.
What is a HMR Consultant Pharmacist?
A Home Medication Review (HMR) Consultant Pharmacist is a specialised professional accredited by the Australian Association of Consultant Pharmacy, PSA or SHPA. Unlike a Community Pharmacist, an Accredited HMR Consultant Pharmacist has undergone additional training to conduct comprehensive medication reviews, particularly in a home setting.
While both types of pharmacists are qualified to dispense medications, an Accredited HMR Consultant Pharmacist focuses on personalised assessments, addressing medication-related issues, and promoting optimal health outcomes, through collaborations with doctors and healthcare teams. This specialisation enables them to provide in-depth insights into medication regimens, potential interactions, and overall patient well-being, especially for those on multiple medications.
Doesn't my doctor already look at my medication interactions?
Absolutely, your doctor does a fantastic job overseeing your medications. However, as a specialised pharmacist focusing on Home Medication Reviews (HMRs), I offer dedicated time and expertise to thoroughly assess potential interactions and possible side effects, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of your medication regimen. This personalised approach enhances overall safety and optimises your health outcomes.