In 2008, IHC distributed 150,000 MedCards statewide to clinics, pharmacies, hospitals, and public health agencies. The purpose of the card is aimed at improving both the health literacy of Iowans taking medications, as well as promoting enhancements in patient safety. Medications can be a cost-effective healthcare treatment, but when used inappropriately, medication use may result in patient harm and unnecessary health care costs. Communication and understanding of basic medication information is an essential component in improving health literacy with our increasing access and use of medications. Keeping track of the medication they are taking assures that the patient is playing a central role for managing their own healthcare. Providing a listing of medications taken also helps healthcare providers safeguard patient care.

A limited supply of the MedCards is now available from IHC. A generous grant from Iowans for Wellness and Prevention has enabled a printing of an additional 25,000 for distribution. Additionally, we've added a Spanish-language version of the card. Call Gerd Clabaugh at IHC at 515-283-9365, or by email at clabaughg@ihconline.org to order. Supplies are limited to 100 per order.

The contents of the MedCard that you'll receive will enable your organization to take advantage of a tool which has been actively promoted by the Iowa Healthcare Collaborative (IHC) to help improve provider to patient communications and also medication safety. Thanks to Mercy Hospital and St. Luke's Hospital – both in Cedar Rapids - as well as The Wellmark Foundation, the Iowa Foundation for Medical Care, Iowa Hospital Association, Iowa Medical Society, and the Iowa Pharmacy Association for their support in the original development and distribution of the card.