As pharmaceutical care represents a medical intervention provided to virtually all patients treated in VA facilities, and as it often carries a degree of risk, it is recognized to be an important aspect of patient care. Interdisciplinary planning, including Pharmacy Service and the services prescribing pharmaceuticals, is strongly encouraged for all monitoring and evaluation of the quality and appropriateness of pharmaceutical agents. This may include involvement in the identification of appropriate monitors, the development of criteria and clinical indicators, as well as planning actions which are identified as needed. Medical centers are encouraged to invite Pharmacy Service participation at all medical center-wide committees which address issues pertaining to the utilization of pharmacy services or the use of pharmaceuticals. Medication errors originating in Pharmacy Service are monitored and trended.
Action is taken to identify and correct contributing factors to medication errors.
Such action is documented and evaluated for effectiveness. Pharmacy Service participates in and facilitates drug use evaluation studies conducted by the medical staff. The use of provider specific quality improvement information in disciplinary actions is strictly prohibited.