O.O.9.4 - A pharmacist communicating about medicines with carers of people with intellectual disabilities: Presenter(s): Bernadette Flood, Avista formerly Daughters of Charity, Ireland.

Medication use is the main therapeutic intervention in people with intellectual disabilities (PWID). The limited evidence available in the literature suggests that pharmacists can make positive interventions in relation to the quality of the medication use process, in collaboration with other healthcare professionals, carers and PWID. The public health role of the pharmacist is yet to be clearly defined, broadly recognized and sufficiently promoted by public health agencies, pharmacy educators or other health care professionals. Baseline audit of medication and public health communications provided by a pharmacist in a residential centre for PWID in Ireland. Collation of pharmacy electronic and paper based information communication records. Survey of carers – electronic and paper based. Pharmacist's communication about health/ medicines is perceived important by carers. Proactive information is communicated without a query in advance for the benefit of staff and residents. "I value pharmacist's interest in making information available to all those who are interested". The pharmacist communicates information using finite resources (one pharmacy staff member) to support maximisation of outcomes and minimisation of medication risks and health risks. Impact of pharmacist's interventions in this setting cannot be accurately measured. With the right communication, health systems can reduce the likelihood of certain conditions or improve the quality of life for PWID who already have these conditions. Specialist pharmacists can engage PWID and their carers with targeted communication. All types of health care provider should consider how to include pharmacy staffing into the overall skill mix for their service. Pharmacists have a role in optimising medication use, promoting health for PWID, preventing and delaying disease, and ensuring continuity of care. The pharmacist's role has expanded beyond the traditional product-oriented functions of dispensing. Pharmacists must learn how to communicate with PWID and their carers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]