Being a smart patient can make big difference in your health. Part of being an informed patient is building strong relationships with your health care providers … so where does your pharmacist fit in the picture?

Your local pharmacist is your most accessible and affordable health resource.¹ Where else could you stop by without an appointment for a consultation tailored to your needs – for free!

Get to know your pharmacist – and make sure they know you!

Your doctor calls in your prescription to your local pharmacy. You stop in, chat politely with the folks at the pharmacy counter, pay for your prescription, and head home.

But wait –

• Does your pharmacist have your complete history, including other medications you take, including supplements and over-the-counter?
• Did you ask if there might be a newer or more effective medication available or one that would be less expensive under your health plan?
• Have you asked about possible side effects or drug interactions?
• Does the pharmacy offer any services such as medication synchronization, delivery or special packaging that can help you stay compliant with your medication?

Did you know that a person with a chronic or complicated health diagnosis visits their primary care physician on average four times a year but visit their community pharmacist up to 35 times in the same period?² If you’re not asking questions, you are missing out on a valuable resource that can help you avoid complications and maintain your health!

Is my pharmacy right for me?

If you answer ‘No’ to the following questions, it may be time to find a new pharmacy:

• Can you easily consult with your pharmacist about medications?
• Does your pharmacist offer advice when you have questions about using over-the-counter remedies to treat a common ailment?
• Do you have a chronic condition?
• Does your pharmacy offer services that make it easier to stay compliant with your medications such as home delivery, medication synchronization, special packaging, compounding, etc.
• Does your pharmacy offer screenings, immunizations and wellness programs?
• Does your pharmacy offer to contact your doctor and/or insurer when you have an issue or to discuss alternate medications?
• Does your pharmacist know your name?

If you don’t have a relationship with your pharmacist, it may be time to check out what a locally-owned, independent pharmacy can do for you. Why? Independent pharmacies, noted for the personal service, consistently receive the top ratings in speed and accuracy, courtesy and helpfulness, and pharmacists’ knowledge in customer surveys like Consumer Reports’ “Best Drug Store” ratings and JD Power & Associates.⁴

We’re here to help

With longer hours and no appointment needed, community pharmacists are more accessible than many health care professionals. That makes it easier to get answers when you need them. Many community pharmacies also offer a wide range of other public health services such health screenings, immunizations, pain control, research, and lifestyle management.⁵ Stop by – we’re happy to help!

Health Mart. Caring for you and about you. 

Nothing herein constitutes medical advice, diagnosis or treatment, or is a substitute for professional advice. You should always seek the advice of your physician or other medical professional if you have questions or concerns about a medical condition.

Sources: 

1. Sharecare: Why is Building a Relationship with a Pharmacist So Important? Available at: https://www.sharecare.com/health/health-care-basics/pharmacist-relationship Accessed 9-24-18
2. Pharmacy Times: Pharmacists as Influencers of Patient Adherence. Available at: https://www.pharmacytimes.com/publications/directions-in-pharmacy/2014/august2014/pharmacists-as-influencers-of-patient-adherence- Accessed 9-24-18
3. HealthMart: Get Customers to Switch to Your Pharmacy. Available at: https://join.healthmart.com/pharmacy-marketing-and-promotions/get-customers-switch-pharmacy/ Accessed 9-3-18.
4. HealthMart: Get Customers to Switch to Your Pharmacy. Available at: https://join.healthmart.com/pharmacy-marketing-and-promotions/get-customers-switch-pharmacy/ Accessed 9-3-18.
5. APHA: The Role of the Pharmacist in Public Health. Available at: https://www.apha.org/policies-and-advocacy/public-health-policy-statements/policy-database/2014/07/07/13/05/the-role-of-the-pharmacist-in-public-health Accessed 9-3-18.