What is the definition of medication reconciliation?

Medication reconciliation is fundamentally defined as the process of ensuring a patient’s medications are accurately and completely documented during transitions in care. This process is crucial when a patient moves from one healthcare setting to another, such as when they are discharged from a hospital, or when they visit a specialist. The goal is to prevent medication errors, which can occur due to discrepancies between what the patient was taking before and what is being prescribed now.

This involves thoroughly reviewing the patient's medication lists, confirming the dosages, and understanding their history of medication use. Proper medication reconciliation helps to ensure continuity of care and enhances patient safety by minimizing risks of adverse drug reactions or interactions that can occur if medication information is not accurately communicated. It reflects a critical step in the broader context of care coordination and quality improvement within healthcare systems.