If you were asked to make a list of your health-care team, would your pharmacist be among those listed?
Like most of you, shortly after my diagnosis, I purchased a plastic pillbox and started lining up small cups on the windowsill in my kitchen. Taking medication became part of my daily routine.
Being new to the world of prescriptions and refills, I never really thought about the importance of visiting the same pharmacy or building a relationship with a pharmacist. I relied on the doctor’s knowledge of my medical history and knowing what medications I could and could not take.
When I was first diagnosed, there was a drug store next to my office I’d visit on a regular basis for candy and afternoon snacks. Because I was a regular customer, we were all friendly and on a first name basis. Feeling like I’d have a more legitimate excuse for my afternoon visits, I decided to let the staff fill my prescriptions.
As my need for high-risk medications increased, I noticed the Pharmacists interest in my well-being increased, too. When I would drop off or pick up my prescriptions, he would take the time to discuss how I felt, if I experienced any side effects and he always asked me questions that were not routine. If I had a new prescription or a change in dosage, he’d request a private conversation to get an update on my health. It seemed like he really cared and it gave me an added comfort knowing another person was watching out for me
After four years, I changed jobs and out of convenience, changed pharmacies. When I told my Pharmacist I needed to transfer my prescriptions, he suggested I approach the new Pharmacist, introduce myself and build a relationship immediately. At first I didn’t think it was necessary, but it didn’t take long to realize the value of the person who signs off on my pills.
Over the past 23 years, I’ve had three pharmacies and their staff, who have taken an active role in my health and well-being. Because of their involvement, I’ve been able to get answers when my doctors are not available, get additional opinions on treatments and new therapies from people I trust, and have added valuable members to my health-care team.
Earlier this year, my prescription coverage changed to a mail-order pharmacy. While it is more convenient, I’m not fond of it! It lacks in personal contact. Not only has my health-care team lost key players, I feel like I’ve lost a few friends. The new coverage says I can call anytime if I have questions, but without the face-to-face, monthly contact, it’s hard for me to build a relationship that I find is trustworthy.
Do you value your Pharmacist? Have you had to change to mail-order for your prescriptions? Does it feel like your health-care team is shrinking? What changes have occurred with your health insurance that makes you uneasy? Have you had a change that makes you feel more secure?
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However, it does lack the personal touch that you get in getting to know your pharmacy team. In fact, one of the pharmacy techs at Krogers knows my face and name - which is a good and bad thing. It's good because he makes you feel special. But on the same token, it's bad because apparently he knows you because you have been in there often! haha
I guess the personal touch is not as important to me right now because I have been doing well with my meds.
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