Medicines Management

The use of medicines is the most common health-care intervention in the UK. However studies tell us that patients do not always use their medicines in the way that the health-care professional intended. This can lead to otherwise avoidable ill heath or an increase in wasted medicines.

The following medicines-related facts highlight the size of the problem:

• 5-17% of hospital admissions are due to medication problems
• Up to 50% of all medicines are not taken as prescribed
• An estimated £100 million is wasted in the united kingdom each year

The PCT promotes the use of practical measures to help patients get the best out of their medicines. These are known as medicines management services.

Medicines management services can include a wide range of activities such as:

• Improving systems to allow efficient access to repeat medicines
• Giving practical advice to both patients and healthcare professionals on the best medicines to treat a range of medical conditions
• Medicines reviews to explore how effective and acceptable medicine regimes are for patients
• Improved access to information on medicines in a range of different languages and formats.

This web-page will provide useful information to help people manage their medicines successfully.

The following patient information leaflets are available to print:

• Antibiotic leaflet (English and Polish versions available)
• Information on Repeat Dispensing
• Information on Medicines Use Reviews

The range of information will be extended over time.

If you have any questions about your medicines, seek advice from your local pharmacist or doctor.