Centre for Disease Control & Prevention, Fast Facts 2010;
http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/ahcd/namcs_summary/2010_namcs_web_tables.pdf
How to have a successful relationship with your pharmacy.
You play the most important role in managing your medications. Help your healthcare team provide you with seamless care:
Re-order in advance
Always reorder your medications at least 5 days in advance of running out. This can be done by phone. That way the pharmacy has time to follow up and resolve any issues that may arise, for example:
Insurance (coverage, prior approvals);
No refills; or
Medication is not available from the manufacturer.
Non prescription items are important too.
You can ask Grand Medicine to also include certain non– prescription items in your bubble pack such as A.S.A or vitamins. The added benefit is that you and your healthcare team will have a complete picture of all your medications.
Ask for refills.
Always ask your prescriber for enough refills to last you until your next appointment. If you get a new prescription that has changes, talk to your prescriber about when you can start it. Some dose adjustments can be changed as part of your regularly scheduled fill, even bubble packed medications.
Start your medication pack on the actual day
If using bubble packs, start your bubble pack on the actual day of the week as indicated on the card. Make sure you complete the entire card before starting the next one. Take the contents of 1 bubble at the time of day as indicated on the card.
Carry a list
Always bring a list of all your medications to your medical appointments. We can provide our patients with a printed medication list that is verified by a Pharmacist to make sure nothing is missed. Please call to request at least 24 hours in advance, or better yet, request a new one every time your medication regimen changes.
Ask a pharmacist if you forget.
If you forget to take your dose of medication at the time indicated on your prescription label, call our pharmacist for advice.