The value of domiciliary medication reviews – a thematic analysis of pharmacist’s views

Abstract

Background: Domiciliary medication reviews are thought to enable comprehensive medication reviews centred around the needs of individuals. However, there is no clear consensus on where the value of these services lie. Aim: To determine the value of domiciliary medication reviews to service providers through semi-structured focus groups, interviews and thematic analysis. Method: Study participants were recruited from domiciliary medication review services provided in the United Kingdom. Semi-structured focus groups and interviews were analysed using thematic analysis. Results: Six themes were identified: the scope of domiciliary medication review services, the professional role, advantages over traditional settings, disadvantages of domiciliary medication reviews for the professional, levels of engagement and outcomes. Conclusion: Pharmacy professionals believe that the domiciliary setting provides advantages over traditional healthcare settings when conducting medication reviews. They believe it enables a more in-depth review of an individual’s medications and needs. The traditional clinical outcomes recorded by services may not be capturing the holistic impact of domiciliary medication reviews.