Minimizing errors at the pharmacy

Prescription errors happen more than you might think. Medical providers are constantly multi-tasking, which can easily cause a medical mistake in terms of your prescription.  

When you are prescribed any kind of medication, be sure to ask what it is; know the name of it and write it down. After that: 

·         Ask the reasons why you are being prescribed the medication, unless it is obvious what it is for.

·         Ask about any potential side effects.

·         Ask what dosage you are to take and how often.

·         Ask how long you are supposed to be on the medication for.

Also, be sure to let your medical provider know what other medications you are currently taking, including over-the-counter medicines. Many drugs can have adverse interactions if taken together.

If you get a written prescription, look it over and make sure it matches what your medical provider just told you.

When picking up your prescription from the pharmacy, read the label carefully and make sure the medication prescribed by your medical provider matches the medications in the prescription.

• The pharmacist should give you a print out of patient information about the drug that was prescribed to you. If not, ask for it.
• If you think there is any type of medication error, bring it up to the pharmacist immediately.
• Make sure your allergy information is correct in the pharmacy computer and make updates as needed.

Medical errors occur every day, but you can help prevent them.

Snyder and Wenner, P.C.

2200 E Camelback Road
Suite 213
Phoenix, AZ 85016

602-224-0005