What should a Medication Manager routinely assess during follow-up visits?

During follow-up visits, it is crucial for a Medication Manager to assess the patient’s ongoing medication adherence and the effectiveness of the medication being used. This is because proper medication management relies heavily on ensuring that patients are taking their medications as prescribed and that these medications are achieving the desired outcomes.

Assessing medication adherence helps identify any barriers the patient may be facing—such as side effects, confusion about dosing, or forgetfulness—that could hinder their ability to stick to their medication regimen. This understanding allows the Medication Manager to make necessary adjustments to optimize treatment.

Evaluating the effectiveness of the medications allows the Medication Manager to determine if the prescribed medication is achieving the intended therapeutic goals. If a medication isn't effective, alternatives can be explored, or dosage adjustments can be made to better meet the patient’s needs.

While other factors such as family satisfaction, financial status, and the review of other providers' medical records can be important in the context of patient care, the primary focus during follow-up visits should remain on adherence and the effectiveness of the medications the patient is currently taking. This focus directly impacts the patient's health outcomes and overall well-being.