Evaluation of the Older Persons Medication Management Program

The Objective

Aspex Consulting was commissioned by the Northern Queensland Primary Health Network (NQPHN), in partnership with the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA), to independently evaluate the Older Persons Medication Management (OPMM) program. The OPMM program embeds non-dispensing pharmacists in general practice to improve access to medication management for older population cohorts. The evaluation aimed to identify key trends in service activity, along with barriers, enablers, and opportunities, to inform broader rollout.

Our Approach

The evaluation was structured around three core domains: process, impact, and sustainability, guided by a set of clearly defined evaluation questions. To support this, we developed a program logic in collaboration with NQPHN and the PSA. These elements ensured the evaluation remained aligned with program objectives and provided a clear structure for assessing performance across all domains.
We adopted a comprehensive data collection approach, drawing on multiple evidence sources including published literature and reports, pharmacist‑reported activity and outcomes data, financial information, and consultations with participating general practices and pharmacists.

The Outcomes

The evaluation found that the OPMM program delivered significant clinical and operational benefits, with potential for considerable system-level benefits.
Recommendations were developed across all three domains, focusing on strengthening implementation, improving consistency across practices, enhancing performance monitoring, and supporting long‑term viability through clearer guidance on MBS utilisation and system alignment. These insights provide a strong foundation for future commissioning decisions and consideration of broader program roll out.