Primary Care Practice Flashcards
Why were PCNs developed?
To increase the access to PHC services and manage access to appropriate PHC services at all times. Also to increase the emphasis on: health promotions, disease/injury prevention, care of medically complex and chronically ill patients. Improve coordination of PHC services. Forster a team approach.
How is PCN service delivered?
The PCN can be centralized or decentralized!
What is a centralized PCN?
The health care professionals work in a central PCN clinic as a stand-alone business. The patients are referred to the PCN by a physician, where the PCN keeps their own patient charts and documents all activities.
What is a decentralized PCN?
Occurs when the HCPs work in separate places. The patient will be referred around and the patient records are recorded into an electronic medical record.
When were pharmacists incorporated into PCNs?
Back in 2006, and PCNs had to independently apply for funding to have a pharmacist work there.
What are the benefits and challenges of bringing pharmacists onto the PCN?
Benefits: increased team approach for care, increase physician accessibility for patients, pharmacists able to provide program direction.
DIsadvantages: role definition and focus for PCN focus - turf war and having a physician actually want you there, and defining appropriate referrals.
What are the two ways that a pharmacist can be hired by a PCN?
Either a salaried worker (employee) or an independent contractor (no benefits).
What are the roles of the PCN pharmacist?
Chronic disease management, anti-coagulation management, consultation services, asthma clinic, tobacco cessation, structure medication reviews, medication reconciliation, home visists, drug information and education, patient/family education and roles being discovered and created continously
How have pharmacists impacted PCNs?
They have: optimized prescribing, reduced drug interations, reduced polypharmacy, improved continuity and quality of care, increased patient self-management, increased provider and patient satisfaction.
What is Primary Health Care?
It is the first point of contact the public has with the health system. It is provided by a variety of HCPs: pharmacists, doctors, nurses, dieticians, mental health professionals etc.
It includes the prevention, diagnosis, treatment and follow up for various conditions.
