Get Help with Your Medicines
Taking medicine is one of the most effective ways to treat many chronic illnesses. But when you don’t use medicines correctly, they can do more harm than good. In fact, taking medicine incorrectly is a common cause of hospital visits, illness and even death.
One way to make sure you’re taking your medicines correctly is to ask others for help. Studies show that people who have a strong support network are more likely to take medicines properly, which leads to better overall health.
Start with your doctor
Taking medicine correctly can be complicated. The first place to get help is your doctor’s office. Review your list of medicines at each visit. Make sure you understand how and when to take each one. It can help to bring along a family member or friend to take notes.
Your pharmacist is another good source. He or she may be able to answer any questions about your medicines that your forgot to ask your doctor. It’s also a good idea to have all of your medicines filled at one pharmacy. This way your pharmacist will know all the medicines you’re taking and make sure they are safe to take together.
Ask family and friends
Your family and friends can be great supporters, too. You can ask one person for help, or enlist a few people. It’s not always easy to ask, but most people want to pitch in of you tell them what you need. Here are some of the steps you might need help with:
· Going with you to appointments
· Calling in refills
· Picking up prescriptions
· Reading label in medicine bottles
· Getting a pillbox and filling it each week
· Remembering to take your medications
· Keeping a record of all your medications and updating it regularly
Look to the community
You can also find help in your community. One way is by joining a support group for your chronic condition. These groups can help you better manage your condition and give you tools to help cope.
Lifestyles for Healthy Living
Spring 2013/BCBSM.com