Home / What is a Home Medicines Review?
What is a Home Medicines Review?
A plain-language guide for patients, families and carers.
A pharmacist visit to go through your medicines
A Home Medicines Review (HMR) is a visit from an accredited pharmacist to your home. They look at every medicine you take, including vitamins and over-the-counter products, talk with you about how you take them, and write a report for your doctor.
Your doctor then talks with you about the report and decides with you whether anything should change. The pharmacist does not change your medicines.
Who can have one
- You live at home, not in hospital or a residential aged care home.
- You have a Medicare or DVA card, or can get one.
- Your doctor thinks a review would help, for example because you take many medicines, have had recent changes or a hospital stay, or find your medicines hard to manage.
How it works
- Ask your doctor whether a review is right for you. Our letter can help.
- If your doctor agrees, they send us a referral.
- We call you to book a time to visit.
- The pharmacist visits. It usually takes about an hour.
- We send a report to your doctor. Book an appointment to talk about it.
Does it cost anything?
For eligible patients, a funded Home Medicines Review has no out-of-pocket cost.
Common questions
Do I need a referral?
Yes. A Home Medicines Review starts with a referral from your doctor (GP).
Will the pharmacist change my medicines?
No. The pharmacist makes suggestions to your doctor. Your doctor decides with you. Don’t stop or change a medicine before talking to your doctor.
Can a family member or carer be there?
Yes, a family member, carer or friend is welcome to join the visit.
Can I speak in my own language?
Our team can speak with you in English, Urdu, Hindi or Punjabi. Tell us when we call.
How often can I have a review?
Usually once every 2 years. Your doctor can refer you sooner if your health or medicines change a lot.