What is meant by 'medication reconciliation'?

Medication reconciliation refers to the comprehensive process of comparing a patient’s current medication orders with all medications they are currently taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and supplements. This step is crucial in healthcare settings, particularly during transitions of care such as hospital admissions, discharges, or transfers, to ensure that discrepancies are identified and addressed. The primary aim of medication reconciliation is to avoid medication errors, such as omissions, duplications, or incorrect dosages, which can lead to adverse drug events.

By systematically reviewing and confirming all medications, healthcare providers can facilitate safer medication management, ensure continuity of care, and enhance overall patient safety. Correct execution of medication reconciliation helps in achieving optimal therapeutic outcomes by ensuring that patients receive the right medications at the right doses and helps identify potential drug interactions or contraindications based on their comprehensive medication history.