What is the purpose of consulting your pharmacist?

A consultation with your pharmacist can make it easier for you to achieve the objectives of your medical treatment. As each person is different, we do not all react the same way to drugs.

• The meetings will be private and by appointment.
• Your pharmacist will ensure that the medication prescribed by your doctor provides the desired results, and he or she will also verify their effectiveness.
• If you experience side effects, your pharmacist will contact your doctor work together to find a solution. Often, the pharmacist’s intervention will mean that you can avoid a doctor’s appointment.
• Meeting with your pharmacist will also help you to better understand your treatment.

What happens during a meeting with your pharmacist?

While it all depends on the type of follow-up you need, you can expect the following:

• The pharmacist will discuss with you and review any treatments that you are currently receiving.
• The pharmacist will ask and answer questions about your medications.
• You may be asked to bring in the results of recent tests, or have certain measurements taken, such as your blood pressure, blood sugar, etc.
• Following the meeting, your pharmacist may make recommendations or contact your doctor to propose adjustments to your treatment.

Shouldn’t these services be provided by my doctor?

Your doctor plays a vital role in managing your treatment. Indeed, physicians devote a considerable part of training to understanding and diagnosing diseases and prescribing different forms of treatment. By contrast, pharmacists are specially trained to help you with pharmacology, ensuring that your medication is effective, safe and does not cause you discomfort.

• Pharmacists are medication specialists: they assist doctors and patients to ensure the better use of prescription and over-the-counter drugs as well as natural health products.

Will my doctor be OK with my pharmacist carrying out a follow up?

Your doctor and pharmacist have the same goal: to help preserve or restore your health and wellbeing. Your pharmacist will make sure to be on the same page as your doctor, informing your doctor of any recommendations stemming from your follow-up meeting, and discussing whether adjustments should be made to your medications.

• In short, it’s teamwork.

Can my pharmacist change my prescription?

No, your pharmacist cannot change your prescriptions without talking with your doctor. In Quebec, pharmacists cooperate with doctors on a daily basis to ensure that they supply you with safe and effective medication.

Are special pharmacy services covered by my medical or prescription drug insurance?

That depends on your insurance. You need to send in your receipts to find out.

• Do you need these services? Let your insurer know so they can refund you.