Key Priorities to Implement Deprescribing in Primary Health Care in Nova Scotia: Results from the Deprescribing in Primary Health Care in Nova Scotia Knowledge Exchange Event (June 20, 2019)

Abstract

Inappropriate medication use and polypharmacy are associated with increased adverse drug reactions, hospitalizations and mortality. Deprescribing has been found to decrease the use of medications and medication costs and is expected to improve clinical outcomes. An interactive in-person knowledge exchange event using World Café and Nominal Group Technique was held with stakeholders including patient advisors, representatives from nursing, pharmacy, family medicine, and members of advocacy/regulatory bodies and government/policy representatives. Six themes were identified with accompanying key priorities that need to be addressed to implement deprescribing strategies in Nova Scotia. These included: Communication (including public awareness and communication between providers and patients, families and caregivers), Compensation (for all providers), Education (for the public and providers), Prompts (electronic and social), Resources (technology supports and resources) and Roles (providers, patients, families and caregivers). The key priorities will be shared with stakeholders to help inform future sustainable deprescribing strategies in Nova Scotia.