The COVID-19 pandemic has presented unprecedented challenges across all healthcare sectors, including pharmacies serving long-term care (LTC) facilities. These specialized pharmacies play an essential role in ensuring that residents of long-term care facilities receive the necessary medications safely and on time. In this blog, we will examine some of the best practices that LTC pharmacies have embraced to navigate the unique challenges posed by the pandemic.

Telepharmacy and Remote Services: During the COVID-19 period, LTC pharmacies swiftly adopted telepharmacy and remote services as physical interactions became riskier. Using video conferencing or the telephone, pharmacists began conducting virtual medication consultations with residents, examining medicine regimens, addressing concerns, and providing education. This strategy minimized the risk of exposure for vulnerable populations and ensured continuous medication management.

Medication Synchronization: During the pandemic, medication synchronization, also known as med sync, became a cornerstone. LTC pharmacies collaborated closely with prescribers to coordinate medication refill dates, thereby minimizing the frequency of residents’ in-person visits. This improved medication adherence and reduced the burden on LTC staff and residents’ families.

Enhanced Medication Packaging and Delivery: Numerous LTC pharmacies have adopted advanced packaging solutions, such as unit-dose blisters and multi-dose packaging, to reduce medication handling by facility staff and residents. In addition, contactless delivery options were implemented to ensure the timely and secure distribution of medications, thereby eliminating the need for face-to-face interactions.

Infection Control Measures: Long-term care pharmacies have implemented stringent infection control protocols to protect residents and pharmacy staff. This included the routine sanitization of pharmacy facilities, using personal protective equipment (PPE), and temperature screenings for pharmacy employees entering long-term care facilities.

Collaboration and Communication: Collaboration and communication between LTC pharmacies, long-term care facilities, and prescribers have become more critical than ever. Regular virtual Meetings and information sharing ensured prompt attention to medication-related concerns and changes, facilitating seamless patient care.

Preparedness for Emergencies: The pandemic highlighted the significance of robust emergency preparedness plans. Continuing care pharmacies revised and strengthened their protocols to address disruptions in medication supply chains, staffing shortages, and sudden changes in patient requirements, ensuring continuity of care under challenging conditions.

Support for Mental Health: LTC pharmacies recognize the impact of social isolation on the mental health of residents. As a result of the pandemic, pharmacists provided additional counseling and support, addressing anxiety and depression. This holistic approach to care was instrumental in preserving the overall health of the inhabitants.

The global outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic posed significant challenges to healthcare systems across the globe, requiring swift adjustments to safeguard the health and welfare of at-risk groups, namely individuals living in long-term care (LTC) institutions. Long-term care (LTC) pharmacies have been crucial in managing medications for this population. In response to the pandemic, these pharmacies promptly adopted creative strategies to tackle emerging issues effectively.

Summing up the whole, the COVID-19 pandemic has presented unprecedented challenges across all healthcare sectors, including pharmacies serving long-term care (LTC) facilities. Implementing telepharmacy, improved medication packaging, infection control measures, and strong collaboration has not only protected patient health but paved the way for more resilient and patient-centered practices in the future. As the healthcare environment evolves, these best practices will continue to be essential for providing optimal care to our most vulnerable population.

Contact TIB Pharmacy for more information.

For more information regarding long-term care pharmacy best practices during a pandemic, please contact our team at (510) 573-0064.

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