How can physicians be informed of a patient's medication history and potential drug interactions?

1 Electronic health records

Electronic health records (EHRs) are digital systems that store and share patients' health information, including medication history, allergies, diagnoses, and lab results. EHRs can help physicians access their patients' medication history and drug interactions from different sources, such as pharmacies, hospitals, or other providers. EHRs can also alert physicians to potential drug interactions, duplications, or contraindications based on the patient's current and past medications. However, EHRs are not always accurate, complete, or up-to-date, so physicians should always verify the information with the patient and other sources.

2 Medication reconciliation

Medication reconciliation is a process of comparing the patient's medication list with the medications they are actually taking, and resolving any discrepancies or errors. Medication reconciliation can help physicians ensure that their patients are taking the right medications, doses, frequencies, and routes, and avoid any adverse drug events or interactions. Medication reconciliation should be done at every transition of care, such as admission, discharge, or referral, and involve the patient, the physician, and other health care professionals.

3 Prescription drug monitoring programs

Prescription drug monitoring programs (PDMPs) are state-run databases that collect and monitor the prescribing and dispensing of controlled substances, such as opioids, benzodiazepines, or stimulants. PDMPs can help physicians identify patients who may be at risk of misuse, abuse, diversion, or overdose of these substances, and intervene accordingly. PDMPs can also help physicians detect potential drug interactions, especially with other central nervous system depressants or opioids. Physicians should check the PDMP before prescribing or dispensing any controlled substance, and update the PDMP with any changes or discontinuations.

4 Patient education and engagement

Patient education and engagement are essential components of informing physicians of their patients' medication history and drug interactions. Physicians should educate their patients about the purpose, benefits, risks, and instructions of their medications, and encourage them to ask questions, report any side effects, and adhere to their regimens. Physicians should also engage their patients in shared decision making, and respect their preferences, values, and goals. Patients should be encouraged to keep an updated medication list, and bring it to every visit or encounter with a health care professional.

5 Interprofessional collaboration

Interprofessional collaboration is a practice of working with other health care professionals from different disciplines, such as pharmacists, nurses, or specialists, to provide coordinated and comprehensive care to patients. Interprofessional collaboration can help physicians access and update their patients' medication history and drug interactions from different perspectives, and benefit from the expertise and experience of other team members. Interprofessional collaboration can also improve communication, reduce errors, and enhance patient outcomes and satisfaction.