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Medication Adherence: Why it Matters and How Drug Mart Pharmacy Can Help
Medication adherence is a critical aspect of healthcare that refers to the extent to which patients take their medications as prescribed. Proper medication adherence can significantly impact patients' health outcomes and overall quality of life. In fact, studies have shown that patients who take their medications as directed are more likely to achieve better health outcomes and experience fewer hospitalizations and emergency department visits.
However, despite its importance, medication adherence remains a challenge for many patients. In the United States, 50% of patients do not take their medications as prescribed, and non-adherence is estimated to cost the healthcare system approximately $100 billion annually.
There are many reasons why patients struggle with medication adherence, including:
- Complex dosing regimens
- Side effects
- Cost
- Forgetfulness
- Difficulty understanding medication instructions
Drug Mart Pharmacy can play a crucial role in improving medication adherence and supporting patients in their healthcare journeys. Here are a few ways in which Drug Mart Pharmacy can help:
1. Medication Education and Counseling
Drug Mart Pharmacy provides patients with the necessary education and counseling they need to understand their medications, their side effects, and how to take them properly. Pharmacists can answer questions, clarify instructions, and help patients develop a medication regimen that works for them. Every time you receive a medication, you will be provided an information leaflet explaining the uses, side effects, and proper use of the medication. You will also be asked if you have any questions about the medication. This is a perfect opportunity to speak with the pharmacist and ask any questions. For more information on what questions to ask the pharmacist, read our blog article Seven Questions You Should Be Asking Your Pharmacist.
2. Medication Therapy Management (MTM)
Drug Mart Pharmacy can provide MTM services to help patients manage their medications and improve their health outcomes. Pharmacists can review patients' medication regimens, identify any potential drug interactions, and make recommendations for optimizing treatment. Ask us about more information on our MTM services.
3. Compliance Packaging
Drug Mart Pharmacy offers compliance packaging. These blister pack solutions sort the medications you need to take by the time of the day. This solution significantly increases adherence rates for people who are taking multiple medications. Ask our pharmacist if you are interested in our compliance packaging solution.
4. Automated Refill Programs
Our pharmacy offers automated refill programs to help patients remember to take their medications and ensure they never run out. Automated refill programs also help pharmacies track patients' medication histories and provide reminders for follow-up appointments or refills. You will need to request to enroll into the auto refill program, and it is subject to approval based on your insurance plan's guidelines.
5. Cost Management Solutions
Drug Mart Pharmacy helps patients manage the cost of their medications by offering generic alternatives, providing financial counseling, and working with patients' insurance providers to secure coverage for their medications. We routinely find coupons from manufacturers and other cost-saving solutions to reduce your out-of-pocket expense.
In conclusion, medication adherence is critical to patients' health outcomes, and Drug Mart Pharmacy plays a crucial role in supporting patients in their healthcare journeys. With the right support, education, and resources, patients can be empowered to take their medications as prescribed and achieve better health outcomes.
