Geriatrics medication management rounds: A novel approach to teaching rational prescribing with the use of the medication screening questionnaire

Prescribing for older adults has become increasingly complex as treatment regimens have intensified, and the use of herbal and over-the-counter medications has increased. This article describes an educational intervention called Geriatrics Medication Management Rounds, which uses a new and comprehensive assessment tool called the Medication Screening Questionnaire (MSQ). This case-based interactive session is aimed at teaching trainees and postgraduate physicians and pharmacists to examine the pharmacology, potential drug and disease interactions, efficacy, adherence issues, and goals of care for a geriatric patient's medication regimen. Twenty-three sessions were held from January 2008 to January 2009, with 241 participants overall and an average of 10.4 participants per session. Of the 163 participants who completed an evaluation, all agreed or strongly agreed that the learning goals were clearly established, and 99% agreed or strongly agreed that the overall quality of the session was excellent. Participants described the sessions as excellent, interactive, informative, and educational. Teaching medication management through a case-based format with the MSQ is an effective format that is interactive and informative, as demonstrated by positive quantitative and qualitative evaluations. These sessions may be replicated in other settings and with other disciplines.