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As a nurse I can do a lot of things for my patients.
I can mend your heart
I can help you breathe a little easier
I can assist you on your road to recovery
But I cannot take your medications for you, and medication adherence is a big problem.
Medication adherence is taking medications as prescribed
by your health care provider.
This includes getting prescriptions filled, remembering to
take medication on time and understanding the directions.
3 out of every 4 people do not take their medications as prescribed
1 out of every 3 people never even fill their medications
There are many reasons people don't take their medications,
including forgetfulness, side effects and cost.
No matter the reason for not taking the medication, the outcome is the same
patients lose protection against future illness and
face serious health complications.
Not taking your medication as directed can do more than
just send you to the hospital -- nearly 125,000 people
die every year because they did not take their medication as directed.
Managing chronic conditions such as diabetes and heart
disease can be difficult, but you can help prevent complications
and hospital readmissions by communicating with your
health care provider.
One of the most important ways you can manage your
condition is by taking your medication as directed.
If you have questions about your condition - how your
medication works, why you need to take medication,
side effects or other concerns -- talk about it!
Your doctor, pharmacist, nurse or other health care professional
can help you understand your health problem and all the
things you can do to manage it.
Things to remember --
Always keep an up-to-date list of your medications with you
Share your medication list with your health care team
Ask questions related to dosing, side effects and
medication interactions
Be sure to tell your health care team about any
over-the-counter medications or supplements you are taking
If your medication cost is high, communicate with your
health care team to see if a generic option is available.
Generic medications are made with the same ingredients
and offer the same quality at a lower cost.
Switching to a generic version of your medication is an
easy way to save money. It's your choice.
Another way to save money is to utilize the Home Delivery
option offered through Express Scripts Pharmacy.
MCHCP pharmacy benefit coverage offers home delivery of
up to a 90-day supply of maintenance medication for 2 ½ copayments.
Basically this adds up to getting a half month of free medication over a 90 day period! Plus,
they notify you when you need a refill. Log on to myMCHCP and select Express Scripts for
more information.
Taking your medications as prescribed by your health care provider is important to living
a long and healthy life.
Your future depends on it!