Celebrating the CGCH Pharmacy Team during National Pharmacy Week

Over the past four years, the Pharmacy Team at CGCH has partnered with the HQIN network to implement the Blue Bag Program. This initiative began in the ambulatory setting, where pharmacists conducted medication reconciliations and educated patients about their medications, providing them with a blue bag to store their current prescriptions.

Here are two impactful examples of the program:

1. An 89-year-old female patient was discharged with a new prescription for amlodipine 5 mg, while her home medication was still 10 mg. After her daughter picked up the wrong dose from the pharmacy, I advised them to confirm the new dosage. This experience highlighted the importance of patient advocacy, which the Blue Bag Program fosters.

2. A gentleman was found to be taking both Crestor and Lipitor, leading to adverse reactions due to duplicate therapy. After counseling him, I provided a Blue Bag and encouraged him to bring all his medications to his next appointment. He appreciated the clarity gained from our discussion.

These examples demonstrate the significant impact of the Pharmacy Team at CGCH, emphasizing their commitment to patient safety and effective medication management.

Happy Pharmacy Week- we appreciate each of you!