Table 1 Indicators of successful implementation of the core recommendations (primary outcome)

Recommendation 1: SMC incl. brown bag review was performed at least once

1a

Percentage of patients answering the item “Have you had an appointment for medication counseling with your GP within the last 9 months” in the affirmative

Patient questionnaire

1b

Percentage of patients answering the item “If yes, have you brought all your medication packages to this appointment” in the affirmative

Recommendation 2: patients take along medication lists meeting minimum standards

2a

Percentage of medication lists specifying the name of the active substance of each drug

Medication lists generated by the practice

2b

Percentage of medication lists specifying the reason for prescription for each drug

2c

Percentage of medication lists specifying the exact dosage for drugs taken as needed

2d

Percentage of medication lists containing instructions for the application of at least one drug

2e

Percentage of medication list with a date not older than 9 months

3

Percentage of patients with long-term medication having a medication list with them

Oral survey in the practices

Recommendation 3: GPs review the medication systematically using tools to reduce PIM

4a

The response scale of the item “Do you use the PRISCUS list” to review the medication of your patients?” was converted into a percentage value with always = 100%, frequently = 75%, sometimes = 50%, rarely = 25%, never = 0%

GP questionnaires

4b

The response scale of the item “Do you use the MAI” to review the medication of your patients?” was converted into a percentage value with always = 100%, frequently = 75%, sometimes = 50%, rarely = 25%, never = 0%