What does the term "medication reconciliation" refer to?

Medication reconciliation is a critical process in healthcare that focuses on ensuring that a patient's medication lists remain accurate and complete, especially during transitions in care. This process occurs when patients move between different settings, such as from a hospital to home, or when their medications are changed or adjusted due to various reasons like a new diagnosis or treatment plan.

The primary goal of medication reconciliation is to prevent medication errors, such as omissions, duplications, dosing errors, or drug interactions, which can lead to adverse events or complications in patient care. By systematically reviewing and verifying the medications a patient is taking, healthcare providers can ensure that the treatment plan is safe and effective.

This process typically involves reviewing the patient's current medications, understanding any changes made, confirming that the patient has a clear understanding of their medication regimen, and reconciling any discrepancies. Proper medication reconciliation is crucial for enhancing patient safety and improving health outcomes.