Managing medicines isn’t always straightforward, especially if you’re taking several for different conditions. A Home Medicines Review (HMR) is designed to make things clearer, safer, and easier to manage.
What is an HMR?
Home Medicines Review (HMR) is a patient-focused, structured, and government-funded service in Australia where a specially trained pharmacist reviews all the medicines you use. This includes prescriptions, over-the-counter products, vitamins, and herbal supplements. HMR is designed to improve your understanding of your medications, promote the safe and effective use of medicines, and support better knowledge and confidence in managing your treatment.
How does it work?
The process is straightforward:
Your GP will arrange a referral for you.
An accredited pharmacist will get in touch with you to arrange a visit to your home and go through all your medicines together.
The pharmacist will prepare a report for your GP.
Your GP will discuss any suggested changes with you.
This approach ensures your care is coordinated and personalized.
Who should consider an HMR?
An HMR can be especially helpful if you are taking multiple medications regularly, have recently been discharged from hospital, or feel unsure about how or when to take your medicines. It’s also beneficial if you’ve noticed side effects, changes in how you feel, or if your medicines don’t seem to be working as expected.
You may also consider an HMR if you have ongoing or complex health conditions that require long-term treatment, or find it difficult to manage your medication routine.
Even if you simply want reassurance that you’re using your medicines safely and effectively, an HMR can provide valuable guidance and peace of mind.
Why is it important?
Medicines can interact in unexpected ways, and even small issues can affect your health. A Home Medicines Review helps identify unnecessary or duplicate medicines, reduces the risk of side effects, improves how well your treatments work, and makes your medication routine easier to follow.
More than just a medication check, an HMR is a service focused on you! taking the time to understand your daily routine, answer your questions, and support your health goals, so you can feel confident that you’re using your medicines safely.
How to get started
If you think an HMR could benefit you, speak with your GP about a referral, they can contact us to arrange a referral for you, and we'll be more than happy to support you.
Taking control of your medicines is a simple step that can make a real difference to your health.
Stay Safe 😊