LGH BPMH Pharmacy Technicians
LGH BPMH Pharmacy Technicians
Lions Gate Hospital
Profile submitted by:
Suzanne Malfair, Marilyn Chadwick, Karen Callaway, Brittany Buffone
Brief description of role or responsibilities
BPMH (Best Possible Medication History) Technicians work in the Emergency Department to document the most recent medication history in Cerner PowerChart. They collect information from interviews with the patient, family members, community pharmacies, records from Pharmanet and previous hospital and long-term-care admissions to compile the most current medication history. They may also use photos, drawings, and pill descriptions to identify the pills that patients are taking when patients have trouble remembering what they are called. Their work helps ensure that you receive seamless care from your hospital admission to discharge.
Description of roles to improve patient care or provide pharmacy services during the COVID-19 pandemic
BPMH technicians were on the frontlines in the Emergency Department (ED) since the start of the pandemic. They were quickly adaptable and flexible, having to keep up to date with the changing policies and procedures. They had to ensure that the proper PPE was used in each of the different zones in the ED. They also made incredible efforts to communicate this quickly changing information back to pharmacy leadership. BPMH technicians had to mitigate challenges with information gathering and investigations. They leveraged virtual technologies to preserve PPE and limit exposure whenever possible.
Description of impact to improve patient care or provide pharmacy services during the COVID-19 pandemic
BPMH technicians allowed for the continuity of patient care. The BPMH is an essential first step in the patient’s hospital admission. It ensures that the patient’s home medications are continued and assessed in hospital. It is essential to medication reconciliation. Secondary to this work, a number of adverse events that could be harmful to the patient are avoided.