Community and Clinical Pharmacists in Transition Care

Abstract

Medication-related problems are common among home care patients who take many medications and have complex medical histories and health problems. The goals of home health care services are to help individuals to improve function and live with greater independence; to promote the client’s optimal level of well-being; and to assist the patient to remain at home, avoiding hospitalization or admission to long-term care institutions. Home care is a system of care provided by skilled practitioners to patients in their homes under the direction of a physician. Home health care services include nursing care; physical, occupational, and speech-language therapy; and medical social services. Physicians may refer patients for home health care services, or the services may be requested by family members or patients. The range of home health care services a patient can receive at home is limitless. Depending on the individual patient’s situation, care can range from nursing care to specialized medical services, such as laboratory workups. Common diagnoses among home health care patients include circulatory disease, heart disease, injury and poisoning, musculoskeletal and connective tissue disease and respiratory disease.