Delivery of Medication to Psychiatric Patients in Community Health Services in New South Wales

Objective: We investigated the supply and monitoring of medication to patients who attend community mental health services in NSW. Method: The staff at four metropolitan and one rural community centre health service were interviewed. Information sought included policies and procedures concerning medication, the delivery of medication to patients, and staff reports concerning their knowledge and practice related to the legal requirements of the New South Wales Poisons Act 1966. Results: Sixty-five (62%) of 104 coordinators, medical officers and staff who were responsible for case managing patients were interviewed. The centres all differed in their existing policies and practices and the extent to which they were supported by their local hospital and retail pharmacies. Only one centre had a designated pharmacist and this was a part-time position. Conclusions: The delivery of medication at most centres is a fairly ad hoc arrangement with staff organising medication as best as they can. At times the supply of medication to patients fails to comply with legal and New South Wales Department of Health requirements.