How can I better manage my medications?

Mail order option

For some people, having prescriptions filled at the local pharmacy may work best. For others, it may be easier to get medications by mail order. Mail order pharmacies can make it easy to manage your medications by offering:

  • Convenience. You get a three-month supply of medication with each order so you only need to refill four times a year.
  • Savings. Mail order pharmacies may reduce your prescription drug costs with generic alternatives, fewer trips to the pharmacy, and 90-day pricing. Also, your plan may offer lower copays if you use mail order instead of other pharmacies. Check your plan documents for details.
  • Guidance. You can speak directly with a pharmacist or pharmacy technician.

Be sure to contact your health plan to see if they offer mail order pharmacy.

Refill reminders

Most pharmacies can set up prescription reminders and text alerts to let you know when you need to refill your prescription. Check with your local pharmacy to see what sort of programs they have available.

Medication reminder apps

There are many medication apps out there to remind you to take your medication or to refill your prescription. Click here for a guide on selecting an app. Click here for the adherence tools suggested by the Script Your Future campaign.

Automatic refill

Automatic (auto) refill programs allow pharmacies to refill prescriptions without you having to request the refill. Auto refill is ideal for most medications that need to be taken continuously for a chronic condition, like insulin for diabetes.

Check with your pharmacy (local or mail order) to see if auto refill is available and how to sign up for this program.

Talking to your healthcare provider

Taking an active role in your health can help you get the best care possible from your healthcare provider. It is important to be honest with him or her about any questions you have concerning medication, possible side effects, and any other medications (prescription or over-the-counter) that you may be taking. You should also let your healthcare provider know if managing various medications is becoming too hard, so that they can come up with a medication plan that will best suit your needs.

Click here for questions you should ask your healthcare provider about your medications.

Having a family member, friend or caregiver help you

Many people who take medication receive help with medication management from their friends, family members and/or caregivers. When patients, doctors, pharmacists and caregivers work together it can help reduce the risk of medication-related issues, which ultimately leads to better health outcomes and improved quality of life.

Caregivers should educate themselves on what medications their loved ones take to avoid any problems such as drug interactions, and so they can better help with medication management.