OPTI-SCRIPT study

OPTI-SCRIPT study - Optimizing Prescribing for Older People in Primary Care: a cluster randomized controlled trial
Background:
Potentially inappropriate prescribing (PIP) describes a number of suboptimal prescribing practices, particularly the use of medicines that introduce a greater risk of adverse drug-related events where a safer, as effective alternative is available to treat the same condition. PIP in older people can result in increased morbidity, adverse drug events, hospitalizations and mortality. The prevalence of PIP in Ireland is estimated at 36% with an associated expenditure of over €45 million. This prevalence and associated outcomes suggests that interventions to address PIP in older patients are necessary.

Study Aims and objectives:
The OPTI-SCRIPT study was a cluster randomised controlled trial, conducted in primary care. The main objective of this study was to determine the effectiveness of a complex, multi-faceted intervention in reducing the level of PIP in primary care. A process evaluation was conducted to determine the feasibility and acceptability of the intervention.

Progress to date:
A total of 21 GP practices (clusters) and 196 patients participated in the OPTI-SCRIPT study. The immediate post intervention trial data has been collected and analysed. The process evaluation is also complete. One year follow-up data collection has been completed and is being prepared for analysis.

Publications:
The development and pilot testing of the OPTI-SCRIPT intervention and the OPTI-SCRIPT RCT protocol have been published.
Two papers on the results from the OPTI-SCRIPT RCT and the process evaluation have been prepared and submitted for publication (est. early 2015).

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