What is a key principle of MTM related to patient involvement?

• A. Active involvement of patients is critical, empowering them to be full participants in their own care
• B. Patients should defer to clinicians and not learn
• C. MTM should minimize patient education
• D. MTM should limit patient access to information

Answer: (A)

Active involvement of patients in MTM is essential because it empowers them to be full participants in their own care. When patients are engaged, clinicians can uncover goals, preferences, and barriers to adherence, allowing tailored education, problem-solving, and a collaborative care plan. This patient-centered approach improves safety and effectiveness of medication use by ensuring plans fit the patient’s daily routines and values, leading to better adherence and outcomes. MTM is designed to educate patients, address drug therapy problems, and support informed choices, not to leave patients passive. Choices that imply deferring to clinicians, minimizing education, or restricting information undermine MTM’s goal of optimizing therapy and safety.