How To Get The Best From Your Pharmacy

Often we use pharmacies for only one or two purposes, but they are very helpful for many other things. Besides the pharmacist, there are usually technicians to help with questions and clarification. The technician assists the pharmacist and handle the organizational duties. They will call doctors' offices and check for completeness and correctness of the prescription. However, the pharmacist is the qualified professional, and you will want to speak with him/ her for any special needs.

Many pharmacies carry a very good selection of printed information. I discovered this by accident when one of my students printed out an entire assignment, scanned it, and handed it in as her own. Besides recognising her for her creativity, she failed. But it encouraged me to spend time in a few drugstores and sections of food stores. They always have informative brochures on many different subjects. 

Most pharmacies have blood pressure machines and explanations of the test results. So if you suspect hypertension, check yourself out. There are drug interaction posters and these are invaluable for cross-checking your over the counter meds with prescription drugs. In order for your pharmacist to serve you effectively, you should tell them all the meds you are on. Many pharmacies will collect the unused portions of medications and dispose of them for free. Medication errors amongst the older population is very high and this prevents a bit of this.

Some pharmacies sponsor and organise indoor walking programs. Many druggists have special training in conditions such a diabetes, asthma, osteoporosis. 

So the next time you are near a pharmacy, look a little closer. And get to know YOUR pharmacist. Keep all your personal information in one location. This could save your life!



March 15/02
Karin.

If you would like more information on this topic, or if you would like to know if we could help you get some relief, please use this link to ask your health question or request more information on getting some help.
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Karin Henderson British Columbia, Canada (604) 463 8666 
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