GREENSBORO, N.C. — Heading to the pharmacy is often just one of the many things on a list of errands.
When you go to the pharmacy you can expect a transaction to get a product, in most cases medication, but it can also be a transaction to get a service.
"Pharmacists are a very available health care provider," said Molly Schneider, Cone Health’s Director of Retail and Specialty Pharmacy Services.
The ease and convenience of walking into a pharmacy by taking advantage and asking your pharmacist questions.
Pharmacists are able to answer questions related to your specific medicine, like how and when to take it if you should take it with food, and what kind of side effects to expect.
Consultations are important when you pick up those medications. Share information like what supplements and over-the-counter medicine you are taking and any other illness you have, as a way to better educate yourself and your pharmacist about your health care needs.
"We're here to educate you and help you understand the medicine you're taking," said Schneider.
Of course, you always want to let your pharmacist know about any other medication you may be taking.
At Cone Health's pharmacy, all your medications and prescriptions are integrated into one system for stronger coordinated care.
When it comes to buying over-the-counter medications your pharmacist can also be a resource. Describe your symptoms and ask what they would recommend.
Breaking down pharmacy myths
- You do not have to be a Cone Health employee or patient to get medications at the Cone Health community pharmacy. Services are open to the community.
- You can move your prescription if you already sent it to another pharmacy. The only exception would be some controlled-substance prescriptions which have to stay at the pharmacy they were sent to.
- You can choose where you get your prescriptions filled. Your doctor will often ask and if they don't be sure to tell them which pharmacy you want your prescription to go to.
- Cone Health's community pharmacies offer more than just prescription medications. They offer OTC medications and vaccines.