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. 2007;5(2):85-8.
doi: 10.4321/s1886-36552007000200006.

Results of chart reviews conducted to evaluate primary care patients seen by second and third year family medicine residents for potential adverse polypharmacy

Linda F  1 , May N Lutfiyya  1 , Isaac Cha  1 , Ehab El-Khabiry  1
Affiliations

Results of chart reviews conducted to evaluate primary care patients seen by second and third year family medicine residents for potential adverse polypharmacy

Linda F et al. Pharm Pract (Granada). 2007.

Abstract

Objective: To determine the prescribing patterns of family medicine residents for patients aged more than 60 years with 2 or more chronic diseases and seen at least twice in a 12 month timeframe.

Methods: This is a descriptive analysis which was based on chart reviews. The setting was the University of Illinois-Rockford Family Practice Residency. Patients aged 60 years with 2 or more chronic diseases who were seen at least twice by second and third year residents.

Results: FINDINGS FROM THIS CHART REVIEW INCLUDE: 28.8% of the prescribed medications were not effective for the documented condition, 26.3% of the prescribed doses were incorrect, and 44.5% of the drugs prescribed were not the least expensive alternative.

Discussion: This preliminary study suggests a need for a focused intervention with family medicine residents regarding inappropriate polypharmacy issues with older patients.

Keywords: Aged; Drug Utilization Review; Polypharmacy; United States.

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