What is a Medication Review?
A medication review is a structured evaluation of a person's medicines with the objective of reaching an agreement with the patient about treatment, optimizing the impact of medicines, minimizing medication-related problems, and reducing waste [1.5.3]. This critical consultation, typically with a clinical pharmacist, doctor, or prescribing nurse, ensures that all prescribed drugs, over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, and supplements are appropriate, effective, and safe for the patient's current health status [1.5.1, 1.5.5]. The primary goal is to improve health outcomes by identifying and resolving any medication-related issues, from adverse interactions to non-adherence [1.5.3, 1.5.5].
The Duration of a Medication Review: What to Expect
The answer to 'How long should a medication review take?' is not a single number but a range. Most sources indicate a typical appointment lasts between 15 and 45 minutes [1.2.1, 1.2.2, 1.2.5]. For instance, some NHS practices schedule Structured Medication Reviews (SMRs) for about 20 minutes, while others book 40 or 45-minute slots to ensure ample time [1.2.3, 1.2.4, 1.2.5]. General medication reviews might take 15-20 minutes, whereas more complex cases, such as for elderly patients with multiple prescriptions (polypharmacy), require a longer, more in-depth discussion [1.2.6, 1.5.2].
Key Factors Influencing the Duration
Several variables determine the length of a medication review appointment [1.3.5]:
- Number of Medications: The most significant factor. A patient taking five or more regular medications (polypharmacy) will naturally require a longer review than someone with only one or two [1.5.2]. The review must cover prescription drugs, OTC products, vitamins, and herbal supplements [1.2.4, 1.5.1].
- Patient Complexity: Patients with multiple chronic conditions, comorbidities, or age-related physiological changes need more comprehensive assessments to check for potential drug-disease interactions and ensure continued efficacy [1.3.5, 1.5.2].
- Type of Review: A simple prescription renewal review is much quicker than a full, structured clinical medication review, which is a face-to-face deep dive into a patient's entire regimen and health goals [1.4.5].
- Patient Questions and Concerns: The time allocated must allow the patient to ask questions about their medicines, discuss side effects, and raise any concerns they have about their treatment plan [1.2.4, 1.5.4].
- Monitoring Requirements: Some medications require monitoring, such as blood pressure checks or blood tests, which can add time to the consultation [1.2.4].
Types of Medication Reviews Compared
Medication reviews exist on a spectrum from simple checks to highly comprehensive evaluations [1.4.5]. Understanding the different types helps set expectations for the time and depth of the discussion.
| Feature | Prescription Review (Level 1) | Structured Medication Review (SMR) / Comprehensive Medication Review (CMR) |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Duration | 5-10 minutes | 20-45+ minutes [1.2.2, 1.2.4, 1.2.5] |
| Setting | Pharmacy counter, GP office (opportunistic) | Pre-booked appointment (GP practice, clinic, home visit) [1.2.2, 1.2.5, 1.5.9] |
| Focus | Technical check of a prescription list for errors, basic interactions [1.4.5]. | Holistic assessment of all medicines (prescribed, OTC, supplements) in the context of the patient's health, lifestyle, and treatment goals [1.4.1, 1.5.3]. |
| Process | Unstructured, often part of another process like dispensing [1.4.5]. | A systematic process involving patient interview, medical record review, identification of medication-related problems, and creation of a shared action plan [1.4.4, 1.5.5]. |
| Outcome | Correction of technical errors. | Optimized medication regimen, improved patient understanding and adherence, prevention of adverse events, and a written summary for the patient [1.5.1, 1.5.5]. |
Preparing for Your Medication Review
To make the most of the appointment, patients can prepare in advance. This ensures the clinician has all necessary information, making the review more efficient and effective.
- Make a Complete List: Compile a list of all medications you take. This includes prescriptions from all doctors, any medicines you buy from a pharmacy or supermarket, vitamins, herbal remedies, and supplements [1.2.4, 1.5.4].
- Bring Your Medications: If possible, bring the actual bottles, tubes, and inhalers to the appointment. This allows the pharmacist to check labels, dosages, and expiry dates [1.2.5].
- Note Your Concerns: Think about any problems or side effects you're experiencing. Do you have trouble remembering to take your pills? Are you concerned about a specific side effect? Write these down [1.2.4].
- Prepare Questions: Write down any questions you have about your medicines. Examples include: "Why is this medicine important?", "What should I do if I miss a dose?", or "Are there any foods I should avoid?" [1.2.4].
Conclusion: Time Well Spent
While a medication review can take anywhere from 15 to over 45 minutes, the time invested is a crucial component of safe and effective healthcare [1.2.1, 1.2.5]. The duration directly reflects the complexity of a patient's needs. A rushed, ten-minute review for a patient with multiple complex conditions may not be sufficient to prevent harm [1.2.9]. A properly paced, structured conversation ensures that the patient's medications are optimized, risks are minimized, and the patient is empowered to manage their health confidently. It's a vital, proactive measure that helps prevent a significant portion of the nearly 50% of adverse drug events that are considered avoidable [1.6.7].
Authoritative Link: A guide to medication review - NICE
