Online course

In this course, students will learn about the principles of the quality use of medicines (QUM) and the roles different health professionals play in promoting QUM. This course contains two modules:

• What is Quality Use of Medicines all about?
  
• Giorgio's case
  

What is Quality Use of Medicines all about?
Most of us use medicines - prescription and non-prescription - on a regular basis, and are aware of their benefits. However, medicines can interact negatively and may have side effects, which can result in poor health outcomes. Therefore, all health professionals have a role to play in monitoring patients to ensure that their medicine usage is judicious, appropriate, safe and effective. This module contains a presentation on the Quality Use of Medicines, and a short quiz to check for learning.

Giorgio's case
This module examines the use of medicines in the complex case of Giorgio Mattiou. Giorgio has a number of health problems, which have recently been compounded by a hospital admission for a moderate stroke.

Understanding the QUM
Participation in this activity will assist you to:

• understand the principles of QUM
  
• know the benefits and risks associated with medicines
  
• be aware of the National Medicines Policy and the principles that underpin it
  
• be aware of the Therapeutic Goods Administration's role in QUM
  
• be aware of the role of health professionals in promoting the QUM.
  

Giorgio's case
Participation in this activity will assist you to:

• be aware of ways to optimise the use of medicines with respect to suitable dosage, timing and delivery of drugs
  
• have an understanding of the role the health professional team has in supporting the QUM
  
• be aware of possible alternatives to the use of medicines for symptom management
  
• be able to implement strategies that promote QUM such as patient education and accurate diagnosis of conditions.