Selecting a pharmacy is an important part your healthcare plan.   Here are some quick tips to help you find one that is right for you.

Location: Find a pharmacy that is in reasonable distance to your home so that getting refills is easier and a burdensome trip will not interfere with you ability to manage your medications.

One Stop Shopping: Having all of your medication filled at one location is the best option. Large, big-box locations may offer deep discounts, but they may not be able to fill all of your prescription needs.  It is important that your pharmacy is familiar with ALL of the medications that you are taking, including over the counter medications, as they can help to reduce unwanted outcomes by warning you about potential drug interactions of medications that may be prescribed by different doctors.

Special Services: The special services of a pharmacy may be very helpful to your care. Some services that you may look for or ask about are:

• Delivery of prescriptions to your home
• Ability to test blood sugar or download readings from a diabetes monitor
• Blood pressure testing
• Immunizations
• Convenient packaging or special packaging for the elderly
• Refill reminders

Attentive Pharmacist: Find a pharmacist who is willing to answer all of your questions, keep in mind that all information that you share with your pharmacist is confidential so share any concerns that you may have. If you have a question or a sensitive issue you would like to discuss, you should be provided with a location where you can speak with your pharmacist in private.

Your pharmacist should become familiar with your family and be willing to help with all needs including answering questions about over the counter medication.

Insurance Benefits: Check your prescription benefits with your insurer. Some pharmacies may offer lower co-pays or offer generics based on your insurance plan.  If you have flex benefits, many pharmacies will often track these benefits for you.

Finally, once you find a pharmacy that meets your needs, be consistent in using them to fill all of your medication needs.  Getting the best results from your pharmacy is much easier when your pharmacy is familiar with you and your medical history.