Multi-disciplinary investigational intervention on reducing polypharmacy and enhancing adherence t o drug regimens among elderly African Americans

Excessive and unnecessary use of prescription and over-the-counter medications (polypharmacy) is a major problem and challenge that contributes to increased costs, adverse drug events, poor adherence, inappropriate prescribing, hospitalization, and mortality in the elderly. The study included an outreach program that examined the effects of an educational intervention on reducing excessive and unnecessary use of prescription and over-the counter medication and enhanced adherence to drug regimens among low income elderly African Americans with multiple chronic conditions in South Central Los Angeles. This project was implemented through collaboration with a network of churches. Study participants were provided with opportunities to meet with trained counselors periodically who reviewed their medications and provided them with education about the medications. The project focused on increasing the adherence to physician recommended drug regimens and increasing the involvement of underserved older African Americans as informed and active partners in their health care by improving knowledge of their medications and facilitating better communication with their health care providers. A major objective was to reduce the number of emergency visits and hospital admissions associated with polypharmacy and non-adherence to medication-use among underserved elderly African Americans. Policy implications and social justice issues will be discussed.