An important part of being a prepared patient involves understanding your prescription medications.

What to do When You Get a Prescription

Before leaving your doctor’s office, make sure you have the following information:

  • Name of the drug you have been prescribed
  • Why you are taking it
  • When and how to take it
  • How long before you can expect to see results from the medication
  • Know potential side effects

Paying for Prescriptions

  1. Check your formulary
    *Your forumulary is a list of medications that are covered by your health plan. 
    If your medication is not on your health plan formulary, the prescription may not be covered and could end up costing you a lot of out-of-pocket money.
  2. Check if prior authorization is needed before filling your prescription
    Prior authorization means that your physician must get approval from your health insurance plan to prescribe a specific medication.
  3. Compare prices
    Costs for medication can vary greatly from one pharmacy to the next.

Managing your Prescriptions

  1. Make sure that your medications are compatible
    If you take more than one medication, or even mix it with certain foods, beverages, or over-the-counter medicines, you could be at risk of a drug interaction.
  2. Most insurance carriers have Medication Management Programs
    If you are on 5 or more prescriptions, call your insurance carrier’s customer service line to find out more.
  3. Monitor your progress
    Note any continuing symptoms and/or reactions to your medication and report any necessary information to your doctor.