Pharmaceutical care for patients undergoing assisted reproduction techniques

Objective The aim of this study was to quantify the level of knowledge of patients treated with fertility drugs before and after information was provided by a hospital pharmacist, the acceptability of this counselling, and patient treatment adherence. Materials and methods Infertile couples undergoing assisted reproduction techniques lasting 12 months were followed up through review of the patient's medical notes, a personal patient interview and a structured questionnaire. Consecutive couples were enrolled. Clinical patient data were collected from the patient's medical notes and patient medication knowledge was assessed by personal interview before and after pharmacy counselling. Acceptability by patients was evaluated using a questionnaire and adherence to treatment using hospital dispensing information. Results 61 patients were included and 22 (36.06%) completed the acceptability questionnaire. The global satisfaction rate was 92.4% (4.62 points out of 5). There was 100% patient adherence to treatment. The percentage of medication knowledge was 60.9% before pharmacist counselling and 90% (increase of 29.2%) after counselling. Conclusions This study provides reassurance of the high adherence to treatment of these patients. Patients are receptive to counselling and satisfied with pharmaceutical care. Information received and ease of staff contact were rated highest and pharmacy opening hours were rated lowest. The difference in knowledge before and after pharmaceutical counselling implies such care is beneficial.