Member: I have been taking the same medications for a long time and my doctor reviews my medications. I was recently contacted to participate in a comprehensive medication review. What is this and why should I schedule one? —Paula, Forest Lake
Pharmacist: Just as it is recommended to have an annual physical to check up on your physical health, or regular dental visits to check on the health of your teeth, it is important to have a yearly comprehensive medication review to evaluate how your medications are working for you.
Many things can change from year to year and that can change the way your body responds to medications. Changes in weight, diet, other medications, other medical conditions, kidney function, and other things can all impact how well your medications work or your risk for side effects. By participating in a comprehensive medication review you can have peace of mind that your medications are working well for you and are the safest options. A comprehensive medication review can reduce your risk of being hospitalized, reduce your risk of falling, and could save you money.
The review is done with a specially trained pharmacist either over the phone or face to face and takes around an hour to complete. During the review the pharmacist will make sure that:
1) The medications you are taking are still working for your conditions.
2) The medications are doing what they should to improve your health.
3) Your medications are working together and not causing side effects or that medications for one condition are not making another condition worse.
4) Your medications are the easiest for you to take by looking at things like the number of times you take them per day, cost, and any other issues that might keep you from staying on track. If any concerns are identified, the pharmacist will contact your doctor with your permission. No changes will be made without the consent of your doctor. Our goal is to create a win for your health. If you are interested in scheduling a comprehensive medication review, please call 1-866-873-5941.
If you have questions or comments on thrive. email us at thrivemagazine@bluecrossmn.com.