Assessing Inpatient Pharmacist Role in Optimizing Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter-2 Inhibitor (SGLT-2 Inhibitor) Use in Patients with Heart Failure Prior to Discharge

Document Type

Abstract

Publication Date

3-6-2026

Abstract

Purpose: This study evaluates the impact of inpatient pharmacist interventions on the initiation of Sodium Glucose Cotransporter-2 (SGLT2-inhibitors) in hospitalized patients with heart failure (HF) prior to discharge and to assess percentage of eligible patients who align with current guideline-directed medication therapy (GDMT). The goal is to show the value of pharmacist-driven involvement in reducing 30-day readmission rates by overcoming barriers to initiation of SGLT2-inhibitors. Interventions will include pharmacist recommendations, patient education and exploration of financial opportunities. Findings may support expanding the pharmacist’s role in transitions of care and optimizing outcomes in HF management. Methods: This retrospective chart review will be conducted pre- and post- intervention for adult patients diagnosed with heart failure, regardless of ejection fraction, over a three-month period. Eligible patients will be identified through electronic health records. After completing chart review, pharmacists will assess opportunities to optimize GDMT based on lab results, vital signs, and clinical course. Interventions will be documented in the form of progress notes, medication recommendations, discharge counseling, or assistance with medication access barriers. Data collected will include demographics (age, sex, race/ethnicity, insurance status), heart failure classification and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), admission and discharge medication lists with an emphasis on GDMT, and relevant clinical parameters such as estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and blood pressure at admission and discharge. Documentation of medication affordability issues, such as cost concerns, grant use, or need for prior authorization will also be reviewed. The primary endpoints are the rate of SGLT2-inhibitor initiation prior to discharge in eligible patients, and the proportion of cases with documented pharmacist involvement. Secondary endpoints include 30-day heart-failure related readmission rates, acceptance of pharmacist recommendations, and reasons for non-initiation.

Publication Title

American Journal of Health-System Pharmacy

Volume

83

Issue

Supplement 2

First Page

S1208

Last Page

S1208

Comments

Advancing Science, Pharmcy Practice, and Health Outcomes Midyear Clinical Meeting, ASHP 2025 held December 7-10, 2025 in Las Vegas, NV.

Link to Full Text

Open Access

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