Drug-related problems in general practice: results from a development project in Denmark

Objective The objective of the study is identify and document drug-related problems and other possible quality problems in primary care through a pharmacist-run medication review and screening service. GPs' acceptance and implementation rates of the pharmacist's recommendations are evaluated. Method A community pharmacist worked 20 h per week for 18 months in a GP practice with three GPs. Results The pharmacist completed 40 reviews and identified 103 drug-related problems. GPs had a high rate of acceptance of the pharmacist's suggested interventions (83%), and 77% of the recommendations had been implemented. 765 (12.5%) possible quality problems were identified after screening 6094 medical records. The physicians accepted 86% of the recommendations to initiate low dosage ASA and treatment was implemented for 63% of the patients. 76% of the recommendations to initiate Statin treatment were agreed on and 56% were implemented. Conclusion The pharmacist was able to identify drug-related problems and other possible quality problems with regard to quality assurance of individual patient's drug treatment. The GPs accepted and implemented the pharmacist's recommendations. It was feasible to implement the services and to establish well-functioning co-operation between the pharmacist and the GPs.