Member: How do I know that all the medications and supplements I’m taking aren’t interacting with each other and creating bad side effects? —Arthur, Hallock
Dr. Losinski: You’re absolutely right that different medications can interact with each other, leading to unintended effects. But you can safeguard against negative medication interactions through Medication Therapy Management (MTM). During an MTM consultation, one of our specially trained pharmacists will work with you to do a review of all the medicines you take.
It takes about 30–45 minutes, and the MTM pharmacist will talk with you about:
- How well your medications are working.
- Whether your medications may be causing side effects.
- If there might be interactions between the drugs you’re taking.
- Other problems you’re having with your medications.
Who is this program for?
Anyone with prescription drug coverage through Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota can receive MTM services.
Why should I participate?
When you have multiple conditions, medications can be a major part of your life. Most likely, you have many doctors— and they may not know about all of the prescriptions, supplements and over-thecounter medicines you take. Meeting with an MTM pharmacist can help you get the most from your medications. These specially trained pharmacists have knowledge about how drugs work together, dosing and new medications that your other providers may not have.
What happens during an MTM consultation?
Our pharmacist will work with you to review all of your medications and identify, resolve, and prevent medication-related problems. Your pharmacist will then provide a summary and recommendations for you and your health care team.
How do I make an appointment?
If you are interested in an MTM consultation, call 866-873-5941 (TTY 711), Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central Time. Learn more at bluecrossmn.com/mtm.
To submit a question for Ask the Pharmacist, email thriveNewsletter@bluecrossmn.com.