What is the purpose of medication reconciliation?

The purpose of medication reconciliation is to ensure that medications are accurately prescribed and that there are no discrepancies. This process involves comparing a patient’s current medication list with the medications that were previously prescribed, which is crucial when patients transition between different care settings, such as from a hospital to home or from one healthcare provider to another. Accurate medication reconciliation helps to prevent medication errors, such as omissions, duplications, or incorrect dosages, thereby enhancing patient safety and maintaining continuity of care. By ensuring that the medication records are thorough and consistent, healthcare providers can promote optimal treatment outcomes and prevent adverse drug events.