Choose a pharmacy
)inding a pharmacy that can meet one’s needs can be crucial to a patient’s health. “Patients should choose one pharmacy in order to make sure their medication use and history are accurately maintained,” said Todd Beagle, pharmacy operations manager for Village Healthmart. “If you fill prescriptions at multiple pharmacies, the pharmacy cannot adequately screen you for potentially harmful drug interactions.” He suggested that patients consider several factors when choosing a pharmacy:
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A pharmacy’s hours of operation can be a top factor for many people. Look for businesses with convenient hours. Usually, pharmacies tied to a corporate chain will stay open later. Small, locally owned establishments may have limited hours but tend to provide personalized service. “If your pharmacy is closed, most have an after-hours contact number for emergencies,” Beagle said. “If not, you can go to a 24/7 pharmacy or to the emergency room.”
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A convenient location can make filling prescriptions and purchasing medical products much easier. It can be useful to find a pharmacy that is minutes away in case one needs immediate help. However, finding a store that can meet a patient’s needs can be more important than finding one that is nearby. “If you feel you get better service from a pharmacy farther away and do not feel inconvenienced by it, you should use them,” Beagle said.
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Not every pharmacy accepts every insurance policy. Prospective patients can call ahead to inquire about the types of insurance a pharmacy accepts. “Insurance factors in because of the financial impact on the patient,” Beagle said. “Most people choose a pharmacy based on whether it is a preferred provider.”
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Customer service is another factor when choosing a pharmacy. “People should expect exceptional customer service from the pharmacy they choose,” Beagle said. “If you have any special needs, let them know, and ask how they can help you with those.”