Pharmacies and long-term care (LTC) facilities share the same goal: safe, high-quality care for residents. But achieving that goal requires more than medication delivery. It depends on building a strong, collaborative partnership between the facility team and the pharmacy.
At Skilled Care Pharmacy, we believe the most successful LTC facilities are those that treat their pharmacy as an extension of their care team. Here’s how to strengthen that relationship:
1. Establish Clear Communication Channels
Unclear communication creates delays and risks. Facilities should work with their pharmacy to:
- Define escalation processes for urgent medication needs
- Share preferred contact methods (phone, secure email, EHR messages)
- Hold regular check-ins between nursing leaders and pharmacists
2. Prioritize Medication Reviews
Polypharmacy and medication complexity increase risk in LTC. Skilled Care pharmacists offer routine reviews to:
- Identify duplications or unnecessary medications
- Flag drugs with fall, confusion, or sedation risks
- Suggest safer alternatives where possible
3. Align on Technology and Systems
Digital integration can streamline operations. E-prescriptions, shared EHR notes, and automated refill alerts reduce errors and increase efficiency. Facilities should ask their pharmacy partner about system compatibility and training.
4. Collaborate on Training and Education
Pharmacists provide valuable in-service training for LTC staff on topics like medication safety, new drug approvals, and compliance updates. This ongoing education empowers teams to deliver safer, more informed care.
5. Build Trust Through Responsiveness
The most effective partnerships are rooted in trust. That means pharmacies responding quickly, facilities following protocols, and both parties holding each other accountable to resident-first standards.
In Summary
A strong pharmacy partnership can make the difference between reactive care and proactive success. By improving communication, aligning systems, and leveraging pharmacy expertise, LTC facilities can reduce risks and improve resident outcomes. Skilled Care Pharmacy is proud to stand beside our LTC partners as a trusted resource for clinical and operational excellence.
