How is "medication reconciliation" defined?

Medication reconciliation is defined as the process of ensuring that a patient's medication lists are accurate and up-to-date during transitions of care. This process is critical when patients move from one care setting to another, such as hospital to home or between different levels of care within a healthcare facility. It involves reviewing all the medications a patient is taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and supplements, to prevent discrepancies that could lead to medication errors.

In this context, medication reconciliation aims to avoid situations where a patient might receive duplicate medications, miss doses, or be given medications that could negatively interact. By keeping a comprehensive and accurate list, healthcare providers can communicate effectively about the patient’s medication needs and ensure continuity of care, which ultimately enhances patient safety and treatment effectiveness.