Australian Pharmaceutical Advisory Councils (APAC) Guidelines for medication management in residential aged care facilities states, "It is well recognised that the older age group are the largest users of medications.  While making a significant contribution to the treatment and prevention of disease, increasing life expectancy and improving the quality of life, medicines do have the potential to cause harm. ... Proper medication management, or quality use of medicines (QUM), includes a consideration of the appropriateness of the medication prescribed, the correct dispensing and administration, and the provision of appropriate information." 

APAC has made 14 recommendations in the guidelines.  Recommendation one relates to Medication Advisory Committees: "Each residential aged care facility should establish, or have direct access to and utilise the services of, a Medication Advisory Committee to facilitate the quality use of medicines."

Adelaide North East Division of General Practice
Ballarat & District Division of General Practice
Canning Division of General Practice
GP North Division of General Practice Northern Tasmania
Greater South Eastern Division of General Practice
Southern Highlands Division of General Practice
Sutherland Division of General Practice
West Victoria Division of General Practice

Other Resources:

ADGP QUM Program https://www.adgp.com.au/site/index.cfm?display=334

APAC Guidelines for medication management in residential aged care facilities http://www.health.gov.au/internet/wcms/publishing.nsf/Content/nmp-pdf-resguide-cnt.htm

NSW Health Information Bulletin 2003/10 " Guide to Handling Medications in Nursing Homes in NSW"

NSW Health Information Circular 97/10 "Guidelines for the handling of Medication in Community Based Health Services"

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