When pharmacies consider making the switch from vials to adherence packaging, they often wonder how to handle medication changes.
We spoke with Lindsay Dymowski to learn how her pharmacy handles medication changes for patients on Parata PASS packaging.
Anticipate Future Changes So You Can Be Proactive
Physicians who are familiar with Centennial’s adherence program will call the pharmacy before changing a patient’s medication regimen.
When this happens, the first thing Lindsay and her team ask is when the patient will see the physician again.
“They’ll us, ‘We’re going to see them in the next two weeks,’” says Lindsay. “I know to only give the patient two weeks of medicine because if it’s going to change again, I’m not going to have to deal with the whole med pack change.”
When doctors understand the program, the benefits, and the packaging, they’re willing to work with the pharmacy in situations like this.
Ask When to Make Medication Changes Effective
Many Parata PASS pharmacies are big proponents of reaching out to the doctor and asking if it’s alright to wait on the medication change until the next scheduled cycle fill. Pharmacies tell us for about 95 percent of situations, the doctor gives the ok to hold off.
We asked Lindsay if she’s had the same experience.
“Absolutely,” Lindsay confirms. “Unless it’s some kind of emergency, most doctors who know about the program tell us we can wait until we fill their next pack.”
Lindsay considers it another proof point for the collaboration their comprehensive adherence program promotes between the physicians and pharmacists.
Want to hear more from Lindsay?
This is the fourth of six posts in our From the Pharmacy series.
About Lindsay
Lindsay is president and co-founder of Centennial Pharmacy Services in the Philadelphia area. Lindsay reinvented her family’s corner pharmacy as a full pharmaceutical care provider with an adherence-focused business model. This model has captured the attention and business of universities, hospital systems, and insurance companies. As a result of Centennial Pharmacy Services’ multifaceted adherence program, partners report better patient outcomes and decreased health care costs.
About Heather
Heather provides strategic guidance, coaching, and support to customers who use Parata PASS adherence packaging. With 22 years of experience working as a nurse in settings across the health care industry, Heather speaks the language of patients, prescribers, and payers. She helps pharmacies communicate the value of their medication adherence programs to patients and partners to maximize their success.