The role of the multidisciplinary healthcare team in deprescribing

Abstract

Deprescribing is one of the most effective strategies for mitigating the potential negative consequences associated with polypharmacy. For effective deprescribing to take place, the expertise of multiple healthcare providers (HCPs) within a multidisciplinary team (MDT), including physicians, pharmacists, social workers, nurses, and others, must be utilized. This chapter discusses the roles that individuals in a patient's circle of care patient care circle have in managing deprescribing, including HCPs, patients, and caregivers. The MDT is important for all phases and transitions of care, such as the hospital, community, home, or long-term care settings. The chapter also presents the strengths and weaknesses of MDTs. Several challenges which may hinder the deprescribing process such as conflict, poor communication, high-power distance culture, and lack of role clarity may arise during MDT care. These barriers, whether at the team or individual level, must be addressed for effective deprescribing to take place. Finally, effective communication strategies among MDT members, and between healthcare professionals and patients, are essential for timely and effective deprescribing. Strategies such as the SHARE approach, will be discussed, along with other methods to improve multidisciplinary collaboration in health care.