Seven things you should always ask your local pharmacy
1. Are there any lower-cost alternatives to this prescription?
Your pharmacist and doctor can always help you come up with the most affordable option for the medications you need.
2. Do you have a discount program?
Many pharmacies have a discount program, and they are not always publicized, so ask!
3. If the generic is not available, then does this prescription have any coupons for the brand name?
Many manufacturers offer savings for brand-name medications, so make sure to check before you buy.
4. Does my insurance cover any over-the-counter (OTC) products?
You can call the number on your insurance card, but your pharmacist can also help you find out if your insurance will help cover certain OTC medications.
5. Can you help me make sure my prescriptions will not have any adverse interactions?
It is best to fill all your medications at one pharmacy so that your pharmacist can watch for any possible interactions to medications you’re being prescribed.
6. Can you tell me if this over-the-counter medication will have any interactions with my prescriptions?
Don’t hesitate to ask your pharmacist about over-the-counter medications as well. He or she can hear your symptoms and make a recommendation for the safest and most effective OTC medication to use with your existing prescriptions.
7. Can you tell me what times of day are best to fill my prescription and when the pharmacy might be less busy?
The busiest times at each pharmacy location will vary, but check with your pharmacist about which times might be less busy, so you don’t feel rushed or hesitant to ask questions.
CREDIT
article by FRANK FLEMING
BIO: Howard Franklin Fleming (pictured in the center of the illustration) has been providing exceptional customer service for more than 20 years at Watson Clinic Pharmacy, located on the first floor of the Main Clinic at 1600 Lakeland Hills Blvd. in Lakeland. As a licensed pharmacist, Fleming offers professional support and guidance to Watson Clinic physicians, staff, and patients alike. He is highly regarded for his knowledge of the latest medications on the market. Fleming has been a practicing community pharmacist since 1982 and graduated from Samford University in Birmingham, Ala. When he isn’t working, Fleming enjoys Florida Gator sports, fishing, and gardening.
