Which best describes the process of medication reconciliation?

The process of medication reconciliation is best described as comprehensively evaluating a medication regimen during therapy change. This involves a thorough review of all the patient’s medications to ensure accuracy and safety, especially during transitions in care, such as when patients move from one healthcare setting to another or when their therapy is adjusted.

During these transitions, healthcare professionals analyze the patient's medication list, comparing their prescribed medications with what the patient is actually taking, which can help prevent medication errors, adverse drug events, and hospital readmissions. This step is crucial as it allows for the identification of discrepancies and facilitates communication among healthcare providers, ultimately leading to optimized patient outcomes and enhanced safety.

The other options, while related to medication management, do not capture the full essence of reconciliation. Compiling a medication list is an initial step, and performing a drug utilization review and reviewing a patient’s personal medication record (PMR) with prescribers are important activities but are often part of the broader reconciliation process rather than defining it.