IMPACT OF CLINICAL PHARMACIST MEDIATED CLINICAL OUTCOMES IN GERIATRICS

Giri Raja Sekhar D

doi:10.37022/jcscr.v5i1.926

D. Giri Raja Sekhar Head & Associate Professor, Department of Pharmacy Practice Annamacharya college of Pharmacy, Rajampet.

DOI https://doi.org/10.37022/jcscr.v5i1.926

Abstract

Geriatric patients are highly susceptible to adverse clinical outcomes due to age-related physiological changes, multiple chronic illnesses, and the frequent use of multiple medications, commonly known as polypharmacy. These factors significantly increase the risk of drug-related problems (DRPs), adverse drug reactions (ADRs), medication non-adherence, hospital readmissions, and reduced quality of life. Clinical pharmacist-mediated interventions have emerged as an effective strategy to improve therapeutic outcomes and ensure safe medication use in elderly patients. Clinical pharmacists play a crucial role in geriatric care through medication review, medication reconciliation, identification and prevention of inappropriate prescribing, monitoring of adverse drug events, and patient counselling. Their involvement also supports improved medication adherence, optimization of treatment plans, and reduction in unnecessary healthcare utilization such as emergency department visits and prolonged hospital stays. Furthermore, pharmacists contribute to interdisciplinary healthcare teams by collaborating with physicians, nurses, and caregivers to provide patient-centered care tailored to geriatric needs. However, several barriers such as limited awareness of pharmacist services, cognitive impairment among elderly patients, poor health literacy, and financial constraints continue to affect the successful implementation of these interventions. Strengthening the role of clinical pharmacists in geriatric healthcare settings and promoting collaborative practice models are essential for improving patient safety and clinical outcomes. This review highlights the importance of pharmacist-led interventions as a valuable component of comprehensive geriatric care and emphasizes the need for broader integration of pharmacists into elderly patient management to address the increasing healthcare demands of the aging population.

Keywords: Geriatric patients, Clinical pharmacist, Polypharmacy, Drug-related problems, Medication adherence, Adverse drug reactions, Pharmaceutical care

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