Get more from your next pharmacy visit
Picking up a prescription at your pharmacy may feel more like a time-consuming chore than a chance to talk to someone about your health. But, by rushing through the line and going through the motions at the pharmacy, you may be missing out on a valuable opportunity to ask questions about those prescriptions you're putting in your medicine cabinet. In fact, according to a report from CVS Health, 87 percent of pharmacists wish their customers would ask more questions.
Questions to ask your pharmacist
The next time you have a prescription to pick up, take some time to think through the following questions and consider bringing them up with your pharmacist:
- How will this medication interact with any of my existing prescriptions, vitamins or supplements?
- What, if any, side effects should I expect with this medication?
- Is there a generic version available for this medication?
- What types of services or screenings can you provide to help me manage my condition?
- What vaccines should I consider?
- If I experience a new symptom after I start taking the medication, what should I do?
Find your pharmacy home today
Your prescriptions, your peace of mind. A pharmacy home helps you foster a relationship with your pharmacist and ensure safer medication use. Find an in-network pharmacy when you log in to myWellmark® today.
Questions to ask yourself
We get it, it can be intimidating to talk to your pharmacist — especially if you haven’t done it before. But taking stock of your answers to these questions can help:
- Have you established a pharmacy home? Choosing a pharmacy where you feel comfortable and know the staff is key. When you know the pharmacists and they know you, your pharmacy experience can be more personalized.
- Is there a consultation room available for use? Sometimes questions can be personal or sensitive. Most pharmacies have a space reserved for this purpose — just ask your pharmacist.
- Do you have enough time? Think about it, you wouldn't rush your primary care provider (PCP) during a wellness exam or ask to be examined through a drive-through window. The same should apply to your pharmacy visit. Try to choose a time that you won't feel rushed, will have enough time to listen to your pharmacist's instructions and can ask any questions you may have.
Trusted pharmacy resources at your fingertips
Looking for a pharmacy resources you can trust? myWellmark has what you need. Find a pharmacy home, check drug costs, view prescription history and more. Simply log in to get started.