HMSOM Launches Initiative to Improve Medication Safety in Elderly Communities

The “M.U.S.E.” program, led by Dr. Tanchun Wang, teaches seniors medication management to improve their health and safety.

The Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine (HMSOM) recently introduced a new program helping elderly residents–particularly those within the immigrant population, and/or within economically challenged areas–manage their medications more safely and effectively.

Supported by a grant from the New Jersey Health Foundation, the Medication Use and Safety Educational (M.U.S.E.) program—a polypharmacy initiative—was created to enhance the well-being of disadvantaged senior populations. Older adults are the largest users of prescription medications in the U.S., making them more susceptible to adverse drug events. This risk is often amplified in communities where seniors may face challenges in coordinating care while often lacking family support.

Spearheaded by Tanchun Wang, MB., Ph.D., an associate professor of medical sciences at the school, the program is a result of establishing her own direct connections with local seniors in the community to develop crucial medication management skills.

The initiative aims to build on Wang’s personal efforts to improve medication adherence and reduce the risk of adverse effects, and operate at scale to address critical public health disparities.

“Dr. Wang’s innovative work exemplifies our institution’s commitment to addressing critical healthcare disparities in our communities,” said Jeffrey Boscamp, M.D., president and dean of the Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine. “Her dedication to improving medication safety among our most vulnerable elderly populations demonstrates the meaningful impact our faculty researchers can have on public health.”

The M.U.S.E. program uses a variety of teaching methods including in-person workshops, instructional videos, and one-on-one consultations. Sessions cover essential topics like understanding medication labels, proper dosing, and strategies to avoid potential drug interactions.

Expected program outcomes include improved medication knowledge for participants, reduced medical costs and lower hospitalization rates–especially related to adverse drug events–and enhanced overall well-being.

The initiative is a collaborative effort across the Hackensack Meridian Health (HMH) network. Florey Cruz-Cerpa, Ed.D., regional director for community outreach and engagement at HMH, was instrumental in building partnerships with local community centers and senior housing facilities to ensure program accessibility. The expertise of Lisa Asmar, Pharm.D., HMH network director of research pharmacy, was also leveraged to convey principles of safe medication use from clinical to community settings.

To continue its growth, the initiative plans to develop a mobile health app, establish educational partnerships with local pharmacies, and seek additional funding from the National Institute on Aging and the Administration for Community Living.