In-Home Pharmacist Visits for the Elderly: An Illinois Test Program.

The State of Illinois is testing a new program where pharmacists visit elderly patients at their homes and counsel them on their prescriptions.

According to multiple studies, up to two-thirds of medications prescribed by doctors are taken incorrectly. In an effort to address this, the Illinois Department of Aging has partnered with suburban Chicago based APC Corp. to offer up to 2,000 qualifying elderly residents in-home pharmacist visits and counseling to manage their complex drug regimens. APC Corp. plans to fully fund the program.

After qualifying for this unique pilot program, patients will be contacted by an APC pharmacist. The pharmacist will visit the patient at their home, review their medications, counsel the patient as well as try to identify any problems or side effects. Then, once a routine has been established, the medications will be delivered directly to the patient’s home.

Ultimately, the goals of the program are to decrease costly hospital admissions and to let elderly patients maintain their way of life and keep them in their homes.

Find out more about the program here.

Baer Law will keep you posted on any updates.