Pharmacist’s Evaluation of Medication Related Problems with Cancer: An Individualized Medication Assessment and Planning (iMAP) Approach

Background

Improving outcomes for cancer patients, particularly older adults with complex health requirements, necessitates optimizing drug therapy. The Individualized Medication Assessment and Planning (iMAP) program, a pharmacist-led intervention, was developed to address Medication-Related Problems (MRPs) in this population. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the iMAP program in reducing MRPs, improving treatment compliance and enhancing the quality of life in elderly cancer patients.

Materials and Methods

A randomized controlled trial was conducted involving 238 older cancer patients, with 137 participants receiving the iMAP intervention. Participants were randomized into intervention and control groups using computer-generated basic randomization. Data on MRPs, chemotherapeutic compliance and quality of life were collected using standardized forms and questionnaires. Statistical analysis, including chi-square tests, was performed to evaluate the intervention’s effectiveness.

Results

The mean age of participants in the iMAP intervention group was 79.1 years (SD=8.10). The iMAP intervention significantly reduced the mean number of MRPs from baseline to the 30- and 60-day follow-ups (p <0.05). The intervention identified and addressed specific MRPs related to suboptimal drug usage, under treatment and non-adherence.

Conclusion

The pharmacist-led iMAP intervention effectively reduces MRPs in elderly cancer patients. The results highlight the importance of further research and the implementation of pharmacist-led interventions to improve medication management practices and outcomes in cancer care settings.