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Medication Management
Medication management is the process of ensuring the medications prescribed for a patient are taken properly and achieving their planned, therapeutic outcome. A critical aspect of successful medication management is medication adherence which means taking the right dose, at the right time, in the right way and frequency. Many patients do not follow health-care provider instructions on how to take medications for various reasons. Such as, not understanding the directions, forgetfulness, multiple medications with different regimens, unpleasant side effects or the medication doesn’t seem to be working.
Importance of Medication Management?
20 to 30 percent of new prescriptions are never filled at the pharmacy. Medication is not taken
as prescribed 50 percent of the time. For patients prescribed medications for chronic diseases, after six months, the majority take less medication than prescribed or stop the medication altogether. Only 51 percent of patients taking medications for high blood pressure continue taking their medication during their long-term treatment.
The results of this are poor health outcomes, increased doctor visits, potential overdoses, and increased readmissions to the hospital, particularly for people with chronic conditions. Prolonged illness can weaken immune systems and physical strength, causing additional illness or falls. And poor outcomes can land patients back in the hospital or on a revolving door of doctor visits.
Your pharmacist is an expert in medications, find one that you trust to work with you and your doctor on how best to take your medications.
Medication Management
Tips For Managing Medications:
Active Ways To Stay On Top Of Your Medications
If medication side effects are bothering you, talk with your doctor or pharmacist immediately to find a solution. Make sure you understand how long to take the medication. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if medication cost is an issue. For example, our pharmacist can help shop coupons for you to manage costs. Set daily routines to take medication. Keep medications where you’ll notice them. Use daily dosing containers or RX Med Packs. Keep a written or computerized schedule for reminders.
Ask your doctor for a current medication list at the end of each visit. Bring a detailed list of your medications, including name, dosage, and regimen to each doctor's appointment. Taking photos of the prescription labels using a smartphone may be useful. Ask your doctor or pharmacy about the benefits of pharmacy “pill packs" or other medication management services. Visit with your doctor or pharmacist about known drug interactions with supplements or other the counter medications. Seek recommendations and information on an automated, pill reminder app.
Keep your medications out of direct sunlight and heat. Keep your medicine away from pets and children. Don't store your medications with other family member medicines or household cleaners. Keep medicines in their original bottles. Dispose of expired medications/medications you no longer use Ensure you communicate all medications you are taking with your doctors.
