Innovation

Many of the APhA Foundation’s practice-based research initiatives are developed from a proven process model in which patients, primary care providers, pharmacists, and other health care professionals work together to empower patients to be effective self-managers of their health. This care model includes pharmacist coaching and interventions related to medication therapy, lifestyle modifications, and ongoing chronic disease monitoring. The pharmacists and providers share an open line for bi-directional communication and collaborate with their patients to set and achieve realistic health goals. The process of care model is segmented into three areas as the patient moves along the spectrum of disease control.

Preparation

Patients are enrolled in the project by physician-, pharmacist-, or self-referral  The patient completes a medication history form and informed consent, and the pharmacist engages with the patient during a first visit. The pharmacist uses motivational interviewing and point-of-care testing to gain an understanding of the patient’s health condition, chronic disease control, and current care plan. The pharmacist, patient, and other providers work together to develop a plan for optimizing the patient’s care.