Collaborative pharmacist-led charting and prescribing models – known as Partnered Pharmacist Medication Charting (PPMC), Partnered Pharmacist Medication Prescribing (PPMP), Collaborative Pharmacist Medication Prescribing (CPMP) and other descriptors – are increasingly being implemented across Australian hospitals to improve medication safety and patient care.
What is partnered charting and prescribing?
These models involve a pharmacist approved to collaborate with a medical officer or nurse practitioner to agree on a medication management plan. The pharmacist then charts or prescribes medicines according to that plan. Evidence from Australian studies and pilots demonstrate these activities:
- Reduce medication errors at admission and discharge.
- Improve timeliness and efficiency of care.
- Support interprofessional learning and reduce workload for junior medical staff.
PDL cover
The PDL Master Policy provides Professional Indemnity insurance cover for members undertaking these activities, provided:
- The pharmacist has the education, competence and authority to perform the role (authority may be via credentialing or other means in future).
- The activity is supported by local legislation or exemptions and an approved organisational protocol.
- There is clear clinical governance to assist with accountability, including oversight and reporting responsibilities, both personally and within the organisation.
- The pharmacist has successfully completed training as required by the health service or relevant authority.
Risk management considerations
Effective risk management requires a multi-layered approach. Key considerations include:
Governance, regulatory compliance and scope
Ensure good clinical governance practices, both at individual and organisational levels, ensuring authorised pharmacists practice within the boundaries of their scope. Stay updated with changes to regulatory frameworks and professional standards.
Workforce, roles and education
Clearly define roles and responsibilities of all health care professionals involved. Ensure all staff have relevant training and are supported in their ongoing development. Consider workforce requirements and regular audits to maintain high standards.
Clinical practice and patient safety
Engage patients in shared decision-making. Use evidence-based tools to support safe prescribing. Be mindful of additional risks during transitions of care, when managing high-risk medicines or supporting vulnerable patients.
Systems and technology
Consider interoperability of digital systems, use real time prescription monitoring to support decision making and ensure data privacy and security are maintained.
Quality improvement and reporting
Promptly report incidents and near misses. Participate in continuous quality improvement initiatives and foster a culture where staff can learn from incidents without fear of blame.
Documentation
Maintain contemporaneous records of all prescribing decisions and patient discussions. Good documentation is essential for legal defence and professional accountability.
PDL members can call 1300 854 838 for advice and incident support from one of our Professional Officers.
Insurance issued by Guild Insurance Limited ABN 55 004 538 863, AFS Licence No. 233791 and subject to terms, conditions and exclusions. Guild Insurance supports PDL through the payment of referral fees. This information is of a general nature only. Please refer to the policy wording and policy schedule for details. For more information, call PDL on 1300 854 838
