CHUMS research study leads to action by the Department of Health on the use of medicines in care homes

A recent study into Care Homes Use of Medicines (CHUMS) led by Professor Nick Barber from our Department of Practice and Policy has resulted in the issuing of an alert by the Department of Health, and a letter to Primary Care Trusts (PCTs) telling them to address the main findings of the paper:

• residents (mean age 85 years) were taking an average of 8 medicines each  
• on any one day 7 out of 10 patients experienced at least one medication error
• whilst the mean score for potential harm was relatively low, the results did indicate opportunity for more serious harm

Primary Care Trusts have been instructed to work with their primary medical care contractors, providers of pharmaceutical services and social care partners to determine how medication errors in care homes for older people can be reduced. Additionally, PCTs with primary medical care contractors, providers of pharmaceutical services and social care partners should review the safety of local prescribing, dispensing, administration, and monitoring arrangements in the provision of medication to older people in care homes. They will also need to establish a plan for effective joint working in the future, including auditing on-going progress.

This is an excellent example of the role of research in encouraging policy and practice change. In a matter of months this study has engendered a new evidence-based policy from the Department of Health that should have a long-term impact on the lives of care home residents.

The letter can be viewed here and the alert here