Updated: June 27, 2024
How to know if your pharmacy/PBM is putting your needs first: Do they have these qualities listed in your Patient Bill of Rights?
Your pharmacy should:
- Be ethical and able to handle all your prescription drug needs.
- Be professional and treat everyone fairly, no matter where or how you live, how old you are, where you came from, how much money you make or the color of your skin.
- Do what’s best for you when helping with decisions about your medication.
- Stand up for your needs and do everything possible to work with your doctors to find the best medicines for you.
- Keep your medical records private and only use them to help you get the best care possible.
- Speak in a way that helps you understand your medicines and options.
- Be in an area that is convenient for you and have a place that is clean, private, well-lit, and has good air flow.
- Watch your medications to make sure they are the best, most safe, and effective options for you. This means looking for things like drug allergies, side effects, and the right medication dose.
- Make sure the pharmacy rules and the correct use of drugs are used to offer better or more appropriate choices when available.
As a patient, there are things that only you can do (by law) to help your pharmacy give you the best and safest service. We call these patient responsibilities.
As a patient your responsibilities include:
- Giving your pharmacy important information that helps them check your identity, your prescription, and your insurance coverage because it is required by law.
- Handling and storing your medication the right way after the pharmacy gives it to you.
- Asking questions to make sure you understand how to use your medicine.
- Calling the pharmacy if there is a problem or you are not happy with their service.
