Stakeholder perceptions of a new model of care for medication supply at hospital discharge.

Objectives: Problems relating to patients' medication are common during hospital discharge, often resulting in unnecessary harm to patients and even hospital readmission. To overcome these issues and improve patient discharge, an evidence-based approach was used to develop an innovative model of care for the supply of medication at hospital discharge. The model increases pharmacy involvement, uses community pharmacies in the supply process and encourages patient follow-up after discharge. This study aimed to determine if the proposed new model of care was considered feasible and acceptable by the target population.

Methods: This formative evaluation involved qualitative interviews and focus groups to explore the opinions of stakeholders involved in delivery or use of the new model of care. A range of stakeholders participated, including a variety of hospital and community-based healthcare professionals as well as expert patients and carers. Thematic analysis of the data was undertaken.

Results: The study provided a holistic overview of stakeholder perceptions of the new model of care. Overall, stakeholders were enthusiastic about the new model. Three themes emerged during analysis, providing an informative review of the new model. Themes included: impact, resources required and ensuring safety and quality of the new model of care. Potential issues were identified within each theme along with ideas for overcoming these issues.

Conclusions: The new model of care appears to be a positive step towards improving patient discharge from hospital. Future work will involve a pilot of the new model of care using the study findings to assist with implementation.