The nature of inquiries and responses in clinical pharmacy teleconsultation service: a retrospective study from Türkiye.

Abstract

Background: Clinical pharmacy services play a critical role in enhancing patient care and effectively managing drug-related problems in hospital settings. Clinical pharmacy teleconsultation services have demonstrated promising results in improving medication safety, reducing adverse drug reactions, and supporting physicians in clinical decision-making. The aim of this study is to examine the integration and implementation of a clinical pharmacy teleconsultation service at a university hospital in Türkiye.

Methods: This retrospective study evaluated pharmacist-led teleconsultation services conducted between June 2023 and October 2024. Data on patient demographics, inquiry types, medication-related problems, and pharmacist recommendations were collected.

Results: There were 54 teleconconsultations recorded, with the majority occurring in haematology (42.6%), nephrology (11.1%), and general surgery (11.1%). A majority of teleconconsultations involved reviews of drug interaction (33.3%), polypharmacy medication and potential deprescribing (20.4%), and adverse drug reactions (20.4%). Eighty-seven percent of teleconconsultations were completed within 24 h, with an average of 3 recommendations per consult. The recommendations were all accepted by the physicians.

Conclusion: A clinical pharmacy teleconsultatiton service at Başkent University Ankara Hospital has indicated potential to support medication management and foster interdisciplinary collaboration, as reflected by the high rate of recommendation acceptance. There is a need for further research in Türkiye to determine the long-term effects of clinical pharmacy teleconsultation on patient outcomes and sustainability.